The ceremony, held at Thong Nhat Hall, was attended by Government officials, representatives of international organisations, and numerous artists and filmmakers from across Vietnam.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ta Quang Dong highlighted the significance of the event, marking a major milestone in the development of Vietnamese cinema and its integration into the global stage. He noted that over the past 50 years, the Vietnam Film Festival has established itself as a national platform honouring outstanding works and cinematic talents.

In the context of globalisation and rapid digital technology development, Dong underscored the need to invest in creativity, improve policies, enhance human resource quality, expand international cooperation, and apply science and technology in cinema.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will continue to work closely with localities and the filmmaking community to build a modern, culturally distinctive film industry, he affirmed.

During the festival, Ho Chi Minh City was officially recognised by UNESCO as a City of Film, acknowledging the city’s persistent efforts in developing the cultural industry and strengthening the national film sector.

Jonathan Baker, Head of the UNESCO Office in Vietnam, noted that the title reflects the city’s strategic vision in placing creativity at the centre of sustainable development. Ho Chi Minh City has built a vibrant cinematic ecosystem, linking cultural agencies, universities, young filmmakers, and the private sector, while implementing practical policies to support the artistic community.

Following the award, Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc expressed pride in hosting the 2025 Vietnam Film Festival and emphasised that the UNESCO designation is not a destination but a starting point for the city’s ongoing development in cinema and global cultural collaboration.

Delegates were treated to popular film songs performed by famous artists including Cao Minh, Ha Tran, Duc Phuc, Orange, Hoang Dung, Nguyen Hung, and Han Sara.

Vietnam Film Week-Journey of Light enhances France-Vietnam cultural links

VOV.VN - A press briefing for the “Vietnam Film Week-Journey of Light” recently took place in Paris with the participation of Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang; AVSE Global President Prof. Nguyen Duc Khuong; President of the Vietnam Film Dvelopment Association (VFDA) Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan; together with numerous artists, filmmakers, and media outlets from both countries.