Vietnam’s Stature and Global Contributions Enhanced as It is Elected Vice President for UNESCO General Conference
Vietnam has been elected as the Vice President representing the Asia-Pacific for the 42nd session of the UNESCO General Conference, marking the first time the country has held this position at one of the most important governing bodies of UNESCO. This election is significant as it not only affirms Vietnam’s stature and prestige in the world but also demonstrates the international community’s trust in its contributions and chairmanship capacity at global multilateral forums.
As the representative of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Asia-Pacific, Vietnam will play a crucial role in building consensus and seeking appropriate solutions to urgent issues of the region and UNESCO. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ha Kim Ngoc emphasized that Vietnam will leverage its national prestige and its ability to understand common concerns, harmonize interest differences, and propose initiatives to address key issues.
Vietnam will actively participate in shaping UNESCO’s cooperation in areas of shared concern, such as education, culture, science, technology, and information. The country will propose policies and promote UNESCO’s leading role in multilateral cooperation to maintain peace, respond to global challenges, and help countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, Vietnam will contribute to the implementation of UNESCO’s focal programs, including the Medium-Term Strategy for 2022-2029, Open Science, education for sustainable development, climate change response, and the reform of UNESCO to enhance democracy and transparency within the organization.
Vietnam’s active and responsible contributions to promoting dialogue, cooperation, and appropriate solutions to shared concerns have been well received by UNESCO leaders and member countries. These contributions not only showcase Vietnam’s diplomacy, but also reflect the country’s soft power and stature on the global stage.
Over the past 47 years of cooperation, Vietnam has consistently been recognized as a dynamic and responsible member by UNESCO leaders, and has been praised for its effective cooperation with the organization. The recent visits by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to the UNESCO headquarters and the UNESCO Director-General’s visit to Vietnam have further strengthened the bilateral partnership.
Vietnam currently holds positions at multiple governing mechanisms of UNESCO, including Vice President of the General Conference, Vice Chair of the Intergovernmental Committee of the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, member of the Executive Board, and member of the Intergovernmental Committee of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. This reflects the international community’s trust in Vietnam’s contributions and leadership capabilities.
The country’s high-level contributions to shaping strategic issues and global policies have been widely recognized. Vietnam has successfully organized significant international activities, such as the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the World Heritage Convention, conferences on science, ethics, and human development, and the harnessing of UNESCO designations for sustainable development in Vietnam.
Moreover, Vietnam has received UNESCO recognition for various titles and heritage elements, affirming the country’s cultural values and contributions to UNESCO’s efforts in preserving heritage and promoting sustainable development. These recognitions have not only garnered international acclaim but have also provided momentum for domestic socio-economic development.
Deputy Minister Ngoc highlights that Vietnam’s election as Vice President for the UNESCO General Conference is a testament to the country’s enhanced stature and global contributions. Vietnam will continue to actively engage in international cooperation and leverage its position to address pressing issues facing the Asia-Pacific and UNESCO, while promoting peace, sustainable development, and cultural heritage preservation.
