Da Nang gears up for world heritage cooperation conference this December
VOV.VN - Vietnamese and international delegates will exchange experience in heritage conservation, promote heritage values and strengthen international cooperation, at a Conference on World Heritage Cooperation 2026 slated for December 3-5 in Da Nang city.
According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the conference will be held in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation. It will mark the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s membership in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The conference aims to strengthen connections among heritage cities and facilitate the exchange of experience in conserving cultural and natural heritage, managing urban heritage and developing sustainable tourism. Discussions will also address the application of science and technology in heritage management and opportunities to expand cooperation among countries and international organisations.
In addition, the event will provide an opportunity for Vietnam to showcase its heritage system and share experiences in combining conservation with tourism development and urbanisation.
The planned programme will include the experiential activity on a heritage route linking the Ma Nhai inscriptions at the Marble Mountains, My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Ancient Town. Exhibitions will showcase photographs, videos and digital applications used in heritage management, while a seminar will focus on international cooperation in heritage conservation and the promotion of heritage values.
Other activities will consist of tours to explore traditional craft villages and practice folk arts such as dó (poonah) paper woodblock printing, making Hoi An lanterns, and painting conical hats; a dialogue on connecting heritage for the future; and a contest on the youth initiatives for environmental and cultural heritage conservation.
Organisers also plan to launch activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s membership in the UNESCO, promote cooperation with the Organisation of World Heritage Cities (OWHC) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), and enhance the exchange of experiences regarding urban heritage conservation and sustainable tourism development.