As part of her official visit to Viet Nam at the invitation of H.E. Mr. Bui Thanh Son, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), paid an official visit and working session at the World Heritage Site of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Ha Noi.

This visit was one of the key highlights in Ms. Audrey Azoulay’s working program, aiming to further strengthen the partnership between UNESCO and Viet Nam. It also reflects the Organization’s deep concern and continued commitment to the conservation of cultural heritage—especially those historical and architectural values recognized by UNESCO as representing the outstanding achievements of humankind.

A Ceremonial Welcome and the Significance of the Visit

The Board of Directors and all staff members of the Thang Long – Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Center held a solemn and respectful reception for the UNESCO Director-General and her accompanying delegation.

In an atmosphere both formal and cordial, Ms. Audrey Azoulay expressed her admiration and deep emotion for the beauty, historical depth, and cultural significance of the site, as well as for the dedication of Ha Noi authorities and the Conservation Center in safeguarding the World Heritage Site of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2010, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel stands as a thousand-year-old symbol of the Vietnamese capital and a vivid testament to the continuous development of an independent nation in Southeast Asia. Ms. Azoulay’s visit reaffirmed the site’s outstanding universal value, while providing an opportunity to highlight the ongoing efforts and achievements of the Government and people of Ha Noi in preserving and promoting this heritage.

Presentation of the Site’s Outstanding Universal Values

During the working session, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Quang, Director of the Thang Long – Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Center, presented to the Director-General an overview of the site’s Outstanding Universal Values (OUVs). These include the intersection of Eastern and Western cultural influences, the stratified architectural layers spanning various historical periods, and the collection of invaluable relics and artifacts unearthed through archaeological excavations. Such values not only reflect the long-standing history of the Vietnamese nation but also serve as important evidence of the continuous evolution of Asian civilization.

Mr. Quang also introduced the Center’s recent achievements and approaches in heritage conservation, such as the application of digital technologies in site management and exhibitions, capacity building for heritage professionals, and the promotion of heritage education within schools and communities. These initiatives form a strong foundation to seek UNESCO’s continued support for the next phase of the Thang Long Citadel Conservation Project, as well as for Ha Noi’s nomination to the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities.

UNESCO Director – General Commends Viet Nam’s Conservation Efforts

In her remarks, Ms. Audrey Azoulay expressed her appreciation for Viet Nam’s tireless efforts in heritage preservation, stating:

“The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a true gem within the treasure of world heritage. I highly value the unceasing commitment of the Government and people of Viet Nam in safeguarding, conserving, and promoting the heritage’s values. UNESCO remains committed to accompanying and supporting Viet Nam in this important endeavor.”

Ms. Azoulay also welcomed new initiatives for cooperation in the fields of education and culture, particularly Ha Noi’s active engagement in international programs promoting heritage education. She emphasized that joining the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities would serve as an important catalyst for Ha Noi to reinforce its leading role in the region.

New Opportunities and Prospects for Cooperation

The visit of the UNESCO Director-General to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel at this time holds profound significance. Amid global challenges such as urbanization pressures, climate change, and resource constraints, Viet Nam has the opportunity to maximize UNESCO’s support in developing sustainable heritage conservation strategies, enhancing heritage education, and promoting traditional culture to the world.

The leadership of the Thang Long – Ha Noi Heritage Conservation Center affirmed:

“We are fully aware that the preservation of heritage is not only a national responsibility but also a global mission. Close cooperation with UNESCO in conservation, education, and communication efforts is essential to keep the heritage alive and make it more accessible to the public, especially younger generations.”

The visit of Ms. Audrey Azoulay to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel once again reaffirms the inestimable value of Viet Nam’s cultural heritage. It serves as a strong impetus for relevant authorities, communities, and society at large to continue joining hands in protecting and promoting the precious legacy handed down by past generations.

This event stands as a vivid testament to international solidarity for a sustainable future, one that respects cultural identity and advances the shared knowledge of humanity.