In November 2024, the debut of “Việt Nam Days Abroad” in Latin America showcased the vibrant essence of Vietnamese culture across continents. Children in Brazil were spellbound by the enchanting art of water puppetry, while Saudi Arabians reveled in a tropical cultural oasis. The engaging activities, such as crafting traditional “to he” figurines alongside desert-themed creations, exemplified the magic of cultural diplomacy—acting as a bridge for Việt Nam to share its rich heritage with the world.
International experts highlighted Việt Nam’s endeavor in cultural diplomacy as a vital “soft power strategy,” reflecting its emerging status on the global stage. With Việt Nam taking significant roles in UNESCO governance, including leading the General Conference, its commitment to cultural preservation shines brightly. UNESCO Deputy Director-General Xing Qu recognized Việt Nam as a trendsetter in collaboration, underscoring its impactful contributions to the organization’s initiatives.
Exceeding its aim of securing 60 UNESCO titles by 2030, Việt Nam achieved 67, showcasing its vibrant heritage and tradition. Noteworthy recognitions included Ho Chi Minh City and Son La’s inclusion in the Global Network of Learning Cities, and the Nine Dynastic Urns being inscribed in the Memory of the World Register. Additionally, the Bà Chúa Xứ festival gained recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reflecting Việt Nam’s dedication to honoring its cultural legacy.
The “Việt Nam Days Abroad” program has significantly bolstered the nation’s international image, fostering trust among political partners and elevating Việt Nam’s brand. The country’s cultural allure has translated into tourism growth, attracting 17.5 million international visitors in 2024—a stunning 38.9% increase. Việt Nam was celebrated as “Asia’s Leading Destination” and recognized for its haunting beauty and rich heritage at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
According to the Lowy Institute Asia Power Index 2024, Việt Nam’s diplomatic prowess has expanded, achieving remarkable gains in cultural influence. Recognizing the increasing impact of Vietnamese culture, Nguyễn Việt Hà of VACEO emphasized how cultural exchange is a critical component of the nation’s global strategy. As bonds of friendship deepen with nations, ranging from Italy to Brazil, Việt Nam’s cultural footprint continues to expand.
As 2024 unfolded, various cultural events enhanced international relations, exemplified by the vibrant celebration in Italy, where Puccini’s classics were performed in Vietnamese. Ling Dequan noted this year as a transformative period for Việt Nam, where cultural diplomacy blossomed alongside political and economic strategies. Furthermore, Vietnamese language education is on the rise, with its introduction at various universities, setting Việt Nam apart on the academic stage.
“Việt Nam Days Abroad” launched in November 2024, captivating audiences from Brazil to Saudi Arabia with vibrant cultural exchanges. Việt Nam’s role in UNESCO and recent recognitions showcase its commitment to cultural diplomacy. The country also experienced a tourism boom, affirming its status as a leading destination in Asia. This ongoing cultural strategy aims to deepen international relations and enhance Việt Nam’s global brand.
Through its cultural diplomacy initiatives, Việt Nam is redefining its global presence, showcasing the richness of its traditions while building vital international relationships. With significant gains in tourism and cultural recognition, the country is successfully leveraging its heritage as a powerful diplomatic tool. As Việt Nam continues to elevate its soft power, it solidifies its place on the world stage, fostering deeper understanding and cooperation across nations.
Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in promoting a country’s identity and fostering international relationships. For Việt Nam, initiatives like “Việt Nam Days Abroad” encapsulate the spirit of sharing and celebrating its rich heritage while also enhancing its global presence. This strategy aligns with the nation’s broader goals of strengthening diplomatic ties and expanding its cultural influence worldwide through various UNESCO initiatives and international collaborations.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
