The First World Cultural Festival in Hanoi: Connecting – Sharing – Spreading Love

On the evening of October 10, 2025, the opening ceremony of the first World Cultural Festival took place at the Thang Long Heritage Conservation Center in Hanoi (Thang Long Imperial Citadel Central Relic Area). With the message: “Connect – Share – Spread Love,” the festival brought together numerous international friends, artists, social organizations, businesses, and Vietnamese people to support communities severely affected by natural disasters. The event also demonstrated international solidarity in jointly addressing global challenges, especially climate change.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh delivers the opening speech at the first World Cultural Festival in Hanoi – Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac

Vietnam is experiencing a series of natural disasters, with storms upon storms and floods upon floods. In the third quarter of this year, Vietnam suffered 8 storms, and in September alone, it experienced 4 storms. People are struggling with the difficulties caused by these natural disasters. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has extended his deepest condolences and sympathy to the localities and families who have suffered losses of life and property; and at the same time, called for contributions, solidarity, and sharing from people nationwide and from international friends to those severely affected by the natural disasters.

Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly, wife of General Secretary To Lam, performs a special ceremony (painting on five-colored ceramic tiles) to inaugurate the festival – Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized: President Ho Chi Minh, the great national hero and world cultural figure of Vietnam, clearly stated, “Culture illuminates the path for the nation to follow”; the Communist Party of Vietnam identifies culture as an intrinsic strength, a culture that is scientific, national, and popular: “We will continue to promote the role of culture as an intrinsic strength, as well as a unifying force, a strength of international solidarity, sharing the burden in the face of natural disasters and the consequences of climate change, which are universal, comprehensive, and global in nature, requiring international solidarity, upholding multilateralism and mutual assistance, including the ‘thread’ of culture.”

Mr. Jonathan Wallace Baker, Head of UNESCO Representative Office in Vietnam, delivers a speech (Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac)

Mr. Jonathan Wallace Baker, UNESCO Representative in Vietnam, remarked: “Hanoi has long been a bridge between cultures, a city where traditional values intertwine with creativity.” He also expressed UNESCO’s deep sympathy and solidarity with the areas affected by the recent natural disasters. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost their homes and loved ones. In these difficult times, culture reminds us of our roots, the roots of resilience, compassion, and the ability to rebuild lives together. Let this festival be remembered—not only for its colors and performances—but for its message: When cultures connect, humanity unites. Let us build a future where culture inspires solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity—right here in Hanoi and around the world.”