Vietnam Bolsters Soft Power Through Traditional Culture and International Exchange

Various events aimed at promoting traditional culture and international outreach are actively taking place across Vietnam. The 9th International Festival of Vietnamese Traditional Martial Arts, held over four days, attracted nearly 1,000 martial artists from both Vietnam and abroad. With 650 participants from domestic martial arts schools and clubs and 260 representatives from 16 delegations across nine countries, the festival highlighted the philosophy of "Truth, Goodness, and Beauty" embodied in Vietnamese traditional martial arts and its growing international recognition. In terms of culinary culture, Vietnamese cuisine continues to receive high international praise. It ranked 16th in the latest TasteAtlas rankings, and Travel + Leisure magazine described it as "exceptional." Specifically, "My Quang," a signature dish of the Quang region, with its diverse ingredients and distinctive flavors, is strengthening Da Nang's position on the culinary tourism map. Van Phuc silk weaving village, by integrating the preservation and innovation of cultural heritage, is poised to become a distinctive cultural destination, promoting Hanoi's sustainable cultural tourism and bringing the quintessence of Vietnamese silk weaving closer to domestic and international visitors. In architecture, a draft law is clarifying the concept of "national cultural identity in architecture," aiming to tie design to the preservation and promotion of regional heritage. Furthermore, the classical guitar festival has become a leading international event in Vietnam, serving as a platform for global musical exchange. In sports, the Vietnamese national football team secured an away victory, topping their group. The marathon course overlooking Ha Long Bay is recognized as one of the world's most scenic running routes. Experts point to these cultural and sporting events, along with educational activities by philatelists about President Ho Chi Minh and national heroes, as crucial elements in strengthening Vietnam's soft power, driving economic growth, and enhancing its influence in the international community. Information Source: VietnamPlus English