At the ceremony, MCST Minister Hoang Tuan Anh said Ha Long Bay, in addition to three other sites, namely Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Mt. Fansipan and the Mekong River, are included in a list of candidates for seven new world wonders, offering an opportunity for Vietnam to promote its image, culture, beauty and position around the world.

The minister called upon localities, agencies, and political and social organisations, as well as individuals to continue registering their votes for Vietnam’s natural wonders.

Following the ceremony, thousands of local youths formed a parade along the streets of Da Nang to encourage locals to participate in the voting.

Ha Long Bay currently ranks second out of 77 candidates in the online poll for the seven new natural wonders of the world, launched by NewOpenWord.