Vietnam Strengthens International Ties Through People-to-People and Cultural Connectivity

Vietnam is strengthening its international connectivity by emphasizing people-to-people exchanges and cultural ties. In particular, cultural exchanges are highlighted as the bedrock of friendly relations between Vietnam and its neighboring countries, such as Thailand and Laos. The Vietnamese community residing in Thailand is encouraged to preserve and pass down their language and cultural identity, urged to build a positive image of Vietnamese people, and contribute to bilateral relations. This reflects Vietnam's approach to maintaining national identity under its one-party system while fostering international relationships. In the preservation and utilization of cultural heritage, the adoption of digital technology is being promoted. The UNESCO representative in Vietnam pointed out that digital transformation in the heritage sector should adopt a people-centered approach, emphasizing the participation of local communities. This is expected to enable community members to actively engage in all stages of cultural data management, use, and dissemination. This suggests that cultural heritage can serve as a new tourism resource and a pillar for revitalizing local economies within Vietnam's economic growth strategy. The promotion of culinary culture is also actively pursued. Vietnamese traditional dishes like pho are being showcased in various European cities, with professional exchanges among Vietnamese cuisine experts taking place. This strategy aims to enhance international recognition through soft power and anticipates future growth in tourism and food exports. Furthermore, events such as the International Martial Arts Festival in Hanoi and the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) attract participants from both domestic and international spheres, serving as opportunities to showcase Vietnam's cultural diversity and international appeal. These events not only contribute to increased tourism revenue but also enhance Vietnam's global image. The Vietnamese government expresses strong confidence that culture will serve as both a spiritual foundation and a key driver of sustainable development, actively seeking strategic shifts to unlock its full potential. This indicates that Vietnam, which has prioritized economic growth, is increasingly recognizing the importance of culture and soft power in recent years, aiming to position them as new pillars of national development.