Representatives from relevant ministries, agencies and local authorities attended the discussion along with nearly 30 ambassadors and chief representatives of international organisations and diplomatic missions in Vietnam.

Speaking at the event, which was part of the ongoing Hue Festival, Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Thanh Son affirmed that cultural diplomacy has become increasingly important for regional and international peace, co-operation and development.

He added that Vietnam has strengthened its cultural diplomacy in the spirit of active international integration and expanding its relations with other countries in all fields, thus contributing to promoting the country, people, and culture of Vietnam to the global community and incorporating the cultural quintessence of humankind into its own cultural values.

Cultural diplomacy also plays an important role in connecting diplomatic missions with Vietnamese localities as well as supporting sustainable local development and international integration. Through various activities at the local level, international delegates are able to learn more about the country’s unique cultural features, traditions and customs.

Participants at the meeting shared their experiences in preserving and promoting local heritage and boosting exchanges and international co-operation between Thua Thien - Hue province and other countries to promote the socio-economic development and introduce the province’s image to the region and the world.

The participants also proposed measures to promote tourism and cultural heritage through local cultural diplomacy programmes.