Vietnam promotes international cooperation in heritage conservation and cultural connectivity at 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee
WVR - From July 19-29, the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee takes place in Busan, Republic of Korea, with the participation of nearly 3,000 delegates from 21 member countries of the Committee and over 100 observers. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van, Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, led the Vietnamese delegation at the Session.
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| Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van, Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, speaking at the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee from July 19-29. (Photo: Chu Van) |
Also in attendance were Vice Chairmen of the People's Committees of Hanoi, Hai Phong, Hue, the provinces of Quang Ninh and Ninh Binh; the Vietnamese Ambassador to UNESCO, Secretary-General of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, Director of the Department of Cultural Heritage of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism; leaders of local departments and agencies, management boards of world heritage sites in Da Nang, Quang Tri, the Secretariat of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, along with a group of Vietnamese experts.
Speaking at the Plenary Session, Deputy Minister Ngo Le Van praised the efforts of the World Heritage Center and member countries in implementing the World Heritage Convention. In light of global challenges such as conflicts, climate change, natural disasters, biodiversity loss, and rapid technological development, the Deputy Minister emphasized the necessity of enhancing international cooperation in heritage conservation. Vietnam welcomes the spirit of the Busan Declaration, which emphasizes "cooperation" within the world heritage system.
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| Vietnamese delegates at the Session. (Photo: Chu Van) |
The Deputy Minister proposed three priorities, focusing on enhancing international cooperation and capacity building for member countries, especially developing nations; promoting science-based conservation efforts, ensuring harmony between conservation and development with local communities at the center; strengthening coordination among related conventions and programs, while responsibly applying digital technology and artificial intelligence in heritage conservation.
Affirming that culture and heritage are the spiritual foundations of society, intrinsic resources, and a crucial driving force for sustainable development, the Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO announced that Vietnam will host the Asia-Pacific Dialogue on Heritage and Authenticity in Hanoi from September 27 to 30, 2026.
The Deputy Minister also emphasized Vietnam's commitment to close cooperation with the World Heritage Center, ICOMOS, IUCN, and ICCROM; affirming that the conservation and reconstruction project of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel Center, which preserves over 1,300 years of history and unique cultural layers, is a prime example of this effective cooperation, ensuring authenticity, integrity, and science-based conservation methods.
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| Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van, Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, leading the delegation at the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee from July 19-29. (Photo: Chu Van) |
On this occasion, the delegation participated in the Roadshow Program introducing the culture, tourism, cuisine, and traditional crafts of Hue, organized by the People's Committee of Hue City in Busan. Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Ngo Le Van emphasized that organizing the Program in Busan – the host of the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee – holds special significance, not only showcasing the unique values of the ancient capital of Hue but also affirming the role of culture and heritage as bridges connecting nations, contributing to deepening the Vietnam-Republic of Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that the event will open new connections in heritage conservation and promotion, tourism development, cultural industries, and people-to-people exchanges.
At the event, leaders of the People's Committee of Hue City introduced Hue as a city with 8 UNESCO-listed titles, positioning itself as a green tourism destination, high-quality resort, and circular economy. The city aims to strengthen specific cooperation with airlines, travel businesses, and Republic of Korea investors, committing to creating a transparent and favorable investment environment for Republic of Korea partners.
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| Vietnamese delegation attending the Session. (Photo: Chu Van) |
At the Roadshow, numerous activities took place, including exhibitions, performances of traditional crafts, introductions to Hue cuisine, court music performances, and business connections between Hue and Republic of Korea partners in tourism, aviation, cultural industries, and investment.
| The World Heritage Committee is one of UNESCO's most important executive bodies, with the participation of 21 members, empowered to make key decisions regarding the recognition of world cultural and natural heritage; review and assess the conservation status of world heritage sites globally; and decide on policies, budgets, and development orientations of the World Heritage Convention. This session will consider 33 new nominations and review the conservation status of nearly 180 already listed world heritage sites. |
