Over four days, Thang Long Imperial Citadel became a space for the exchange of various cultural and artistic forms such as heritage, performing arts, film, fashion, cuisine, tourism, and creative activities. Parades on the pedestrian streets brought the colors of international culture closer to the people and tourists.

The event also provides an opportunity for artists, artisans, creators, and the public from many countries to meet, exchange, and share cultural values. These meetings take place not only on stage but also in spaces dedicated to food, film, fashion , travel, and experiences.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Lam Thi Phuong Thanh emphasized that the presence of 50 countries and international organizations, along with hundreds of artists and artisans, created a broad, diverse, and vibrant space for cultural exchange. According to the Minister, the new connections formed demonstrate that culture can bring people, nations, and peoples closer together.

This year's festival coincides with Vietnam's 50th anniversary of joining UNESCO. The Minister stated that this milestone reflects Vietnam's journey from a country emerging from war to an active, responsible member, increasingly proactively contributing to UNESCO's common issues. Culture, according to the Minister, is both the spiritual foundation of society and a goal, driving force, and resource for development.

The booths of each country showcased their own distinct cultural characteristics - Photo: Kieu Trang

The highlight of the closing ceremony was the artistic program featuring international art troupes from Iran, the Russian Federation, Mexico, Myanmar, Belgium, and Vietnamese artists. The diverse performances created a space for cultural exchange, affirming the message of connection and respect for differences.

At the closing ceremony, the Organizing Committee presented commemorative plaques to international delegations as a token of gratitude to the artists, artisans, and international friends who participated in the festival.

After two editions, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism plans to continue coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hanoi city, UNESCO, diplomatic missions and international partners to develop the Festival into an annual international cultural exchange and cooperation event with its own unique identity and producing concrete collaborative results.

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/sac-mau-hoi-tu-trong-dem-be-mac-le-hoi-van-hoa-the-gioi-lan-thu-ii-238261004221243747.htm