He affirmed that culture is not only the soul and spiritual foundation of each nation but also an essential source of internal strength. In a world facing multiple global challenges such as wars, conflicts, climate change, environmental pollution, inequality, and energy crises, culture plays an increasingly vital role in fostering unity, solidarity, and shared responsibility among nations.

Quoting President Ho Chi Minh’s teaching that culture must illuminate the path for the nation to advance, the Prime Minister stressed that Vietnam regards culture as a guiding light for development, a form of soft power that drives sustainable growth and international integration.

“We must make culture not only a source of internal strength but also a force for international solidarity, compassion in times of natural disasters, and collective response to climate change,” he said.

The Prime Minister thanked relevant agencies and diplomatic missions in Vietnam for their collaboration in making the event a success. He also conveyed heartfelt sympathy to communities affected by storms and floods, highlighting the enduring values of “cultural empathy, national unity, and brotherhood” as living symbols of Vietnam’s humanistic spirit.

In his remarks, Jonathan Baker, UNESCO Representative to Vietnam, expressed deep sympathy for areas impacted by recent natural disasters in Vietnam. He said that in moments of hardship, culture serves as a reminder of humanity’s shared roots, compassion, and resilience.

The UNESCO Representative to Vietnam also highlighted that the Cultures of World Festival in Hanoi has become a meaningful platform for intercultural dialogue where nations come together to exchange traditional values and creative innovations, collectively working toward a peaceful and sustainable future.

The ceremony was attended by Madam Ngo Phuong Ly, spouse of Party General Secretary, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung, senior government officials, and representatives from nearly 50 embassies and international organisations in Vietnam.

Under the theme “Culture as the Foundation – Art as the Medium,” the festival gathered 48 countries, featuring 45 cultural spaces, 34 international food stalls, 23 performing art troupes, 12 publishing units, and 22 nations participating in the international film showcase.

Immediately after the opening ceremony, a special art performance titled “Colours of Vietnam – Rhythms of the World” was held, consisting of three chapters: “Melodies of Heritage,” “Modern Colours,” and “Harmony of the World.” The performances combined traditional and contemporary arts, integrated with 3D mapping technology, illustrating Vietnam’s journey from heritage to global integration—where creativity and culture become a universal language that connects human hearts.

From October 11 to 12, a wide range of cultural exchange and artistic activities will continue at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, offering both domestic and international visitors an inspiring space of peace, creativity, and friendship among nations.

First Cultures of World Festival attracts 48 embassies and int’l organisations

VOV.VN - Forty-eight embassies, international organisations and foreign cultural centres have registered to participate in the first Cultures of the World Festival, scheduled to take place at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hanoi, on October 3-5.