Meeting with village chiefs, artisans and reputable community figures from across the country in Hanoi on April 18, he stressed that safeguarding cultural identity is integral to maintaining social cohesion, strengthening national unity and generating endogenous strength for long-term growth.

It was reported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vietnam has made notable progress in this field in recent years. More than 180 traditional festivals have been restored in association with tourism development, nearly 200 cultural preservation and experiential models have been established, and over 720 folk culture clubs and 5,700 traditional performance teams are currently active nationwide. To date, 351 elements of intangible cultural heritage of ethnic minority groups have been inscribed on the national list.

Despite these achievements, the Party chief pointed to mounting challenges, including the risk of cultural erosion amid rapid socio-economic change, particularly in ethnic minority and mountainous areas. He emphasised the need to strike a balance between development and preservation, as well as between integration and cultural autonomy.

Central to this approach, he said, is recognising communities as the primary custodians and drivers of cultural sustainability, rather than passive beneficiaries. Cultural values, he noted, can only endure when they are actively practiced, transmitted and embraced with a sense of ownership.

The leader also underscored the importance of linking cultural preservation with livelihoods, especially through community-based tourism and local economic initiatives that enable people to both safeguard and benefit from their heritage. This, he said, is key to ensuring long-term sustainability.

He called for greater policy coherence and increased investment in grassroots cultural infrastructure, particularly in ethnic minority regions, alongside stronger support for artisans and reputable community figures who play a pivotal role in preserving and transmitting cultural traditions.

At the same time, he highlighted the importance of passing cultural values on to younger generations, ensuring that languages, folk songs, traditional crafts and customs continue to thrive in modern life.

The Party chief also urged communities to contribute to maintaining social stability at the grassroots level, encouraging adherence to the law, resilience against negative influences, and proactive efforts to build sustainable livelihoods.

One-month festival showcases vibrant cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic groups

VOV.VN - The Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, on the outskirts of Hanoi, is hosting a month-long series of cultural activities from April 1 to May 3, celebrating Vietnam’s ethnic diversity.