Understanding intangible cultural heritage of different communities contributes significantly to promoting dialogue and mutual respect among cultures.
The affirmation was made by Chairman of the UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, Jose Manuel Rodriguez Cuadros, at the opening ceremony of its ninth session in Paris, France on November 24.
The session draws the participation of 974 delegates from 129 countries around the world.
The delegation from Viet Nam consists of Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Dang Thi Bich Lien; representatives from the hometown of Vi-Giam folk songs including Vice Chairman of Ha Tinh province Nguyen Thien and Vice Chairwoman of Nghe An province Dinh Thi Le Thanh; and various cultural experts.
The Chairman Rodríguez Cuadros appreciated the 161 countries’ efforts in adopting and practicing the UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The event offers a good opportunity for all communities to actively engage with one another.
During the five-day session (November 24 – 28), delegates will hear 27 reports on practicing the 2003 Convention, eight reports on intangible heritage elements in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, and reports on the use of international assistance from the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund.
The Committee will also discuss 46 nominations for UNESCO’s recognition as World Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, including Nghe Tinh Vi-Giam folk singing from Viet Nam.
Vi, Giam folk music is a repartee sung while working. It reflects the work, cultural lives and feelings of the residents in the central coastal provinces. Vi-Giam singing is popular in nearly 260 villages in the central provinces of Nghe An and Ha Tinh.