Vietnam Boosts Cultural Diplomacy to Enhance Soft Power

Vietnam is actively pursuing a strategy to enhance its soft power internationally, focusing on balancing the preservation of its rich cultural heritage with the creation of new value from it. This approach is seen as crucial for the nation's sustainable growth and its rising standing on the global stage. Recent high-level discussions, including those at the Central Steering Committee for the Development of Vietnamese Culture, have identified key priorities. These include fostering the development of the cultural industry, leveraging digital technologies, and intensifying international cultural exchanges. A significant emphasis is placed on strengthening the linkages between cultural heritage and scientific research, technological innovation, education, design, communications, and the marketplace. The aim is to amplify the economic, educational, and social impact of cultural assets, moving beyond a traditional focus on preservation to a more dynamic model of value creation. Cultural diplomacy is a cornerstone of this strategy. Events marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Thailand, and film screenings celebrating the Vietnam-Laos Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, underscore efforts to deepen relationships with neighboring countries. These exchanges serve to share Vietnamese traditional culture and values, fostering mutual understanding and closer ties. A Vietnamese cultural exhibition in Germany, showcasing traditional dishes, the ao dai, and cultural performances, successfully highlighted Vietnam's distinct identity and attracted considerable international attention. Vietnam is also playing an active role in international heritage conservation efforts. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee's approval to extend the Ha Long Bay World Heritage site to include the Cat Ba Archipelago represents Vietnam's first trans-provincial heritage model. While this designation creates opportunities for enhanced regional cooperation, it also presents challenges in harmonizing management across different administrative jurisdictions. These multifaceted efforts underscore Vietnam's determination to blend tradition with contemporary innovation, thereby solidifying its unique cultural footprint globally. The strategic utilization of culture as "soft power" is envisioned as a key driver for both economic expansion and increased international influence, shaping the future trajectory of the nation.