Viet Nam elected to UNESCO intangible cultural heritage committee

The Southeast Asian nation won 120 votes, the highest among the elected countries, during the ninth session of the General Assembly of the States Parties to the Convention 2003, held in Paris. 

This is the second time Viet Nam has been elected to the committee responsible for promoting the objectives of the Convention, providing guidance on best practices and making recommendations on measures for the safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage.

Ambassador Le Thi Hong Van, Head of the Permanent Delegation of Viet Nam to UNESCO was quoted as saying that the victory reflects the country's increasing position and prestige on the international arena.

As a member of the committee, Viet Nam will have an opportunity to make active contributions to UNESCO’s major programs and orientations in general and on the culture field in particular and affirming its role and prestige at UNESCO and on the international arena 

Le Thi Thu Hien, Director of the Department of Cultural Heritage, said that the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will develop specific plans focusing on the sharing of best practices in the protection and promotion of cultural heritage values, the realization of the Convention’s goals for sustainable development, the promotion of UNESCO's priorities, and the improvement of awareness. 

At present the country is home to 14 elements which make it onto the UNESCO-recognized list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity./.