A ceremony was held on August 17 night at the Yên Tử Historical and Scenic Relic Site in the northern province of Quảng Ninh to mark the official recognition of the Yên Tử–Vĩnh Nghiêm–Côn Sơn, Kiếp Bạc Complex as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. — VNA/VNS Photo

QUẢNG NINH — Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính attended a ceremony at the Yên Tử Historical and Scenic Relic Site in the northern province of Quảng Ninh on August 17 to mark the official recognition of the Yên Tử–Vĩnh Nghiêm–Côn Sơn, Kiếp Bạc Complex as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

In his address, PM Chính emphasised that this prestigious recognition is not only a point of pride for the three localities of Quảng Ninh, Bắc Ninh, and Hải Phòng, but also a meaningful tribute to the distinctive values of the Trúc Lâm Zen Buddhist tradition – an essential force in shaping Việt Nam's national identity and cultural spirit.

The PM called for coordinated efforts to safeguard and promote the heritage’s values, outlining several key directives. These include the completion of legal frameworks at both national and local levels to ensure effective protection of the interprovincial heritage site, and the clear delineation of responsibilities among government agencies, local authorities, and communities.

He also urged the development of a comprehensive management plan, led by Quảng Ninh, in collaboration with relevant ministries and neighbouring localities. This plan should identify and mitigate risks, address the impacts of natural disasters, and propose sustainable tourism management strategies that balance conservation with cultural tourism, he stressed.

Every citizen must serve as a cultural ambassador, the Government leader stated, calling for collective commitment, especially across digital platforms, to enable the unique legacy of this heritage complex to be shared with the international community. He reaffirmed that the people are both the beneficiaries and key custodians of cultural heritage.

A special art programme titled “Sounds of Yên Tử – An Eternal Heritage” was performed during the ceremony. It traced the spiritual journey of King Trần Nhân Tông, who, after fulfilling his royal duties, renounced the throne and founded the Trúc Lâm Zen School at Yên Tử. His philosophy of “living joyfully in the world” championed reconciliation, peace, and harmony – core values that remain relevant today.

Phạm Đức Ấn, Chairman of the Quảng Ninh People’s Committee, speaking on behalf of the three localities, reaffirmed their commitment to managing the heritage in line with national law and the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. He stressed the importance of preserving the site’s integrity while promoting innovation and sustainable development.

With deep pride and a strong sense of responsibility, Quảng Ninh, Bắc Ninh, and Hải Phòng expressed their collective confidence that the Yên Tử–Vĩnh Nghiêm–Côn Sơn, Kiếp Bạc Complex will continue to flourish – not only as a spiritual and cultural icon of Việt Nam, but also as a global destination that promotes peace, human values, and intellectual heritage.

Yên Tử Mountain. — VNA/VNS Photo

Also speaking at the event, Jonathan Wallace Baker, UNESCO Representative in Việt Nam, highlighted the universal significance of the site. He noted that Yên Tử symbolises Việt Nam's spiritual identity and the unique way in which national character has been shaped by Buddhism, indigenous culture, and philosophical values.

The Yên Tử–Vĩnh Nghiêm–Côn Sơn, Kiếp Bạc Complex is the 9th world heritage of Việt Nam and the second inter-provincial world heritage, after Hạ Long Bay – Cát Bà Archipelago in Quảng Ninh province and Hải Phòng City.

Located in the provinces of Quảng Ninh and Bắc Ninh, along with Hải Phòng City, it includes 12 locations with a core area of 525.75 hectares and a buffer zone of 4,380.19 hectares.

With Trúc Lâm Buddhism as its core, the site was established in the 13th century by the Trần Dynasty’s kings, especially the role of King-Monk Trần Nhân Tông. Trúc Lâm Buddhist Zen sect has created many values, making special and sustainable contributions to the cultural and spiritual heritage of humanity. — VNA/VNS