Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Đỗ Hùng Việt stressed the need for all children, whether in urban, rural or remote area, to have access to playgrounds, toys, safe spaces, and opportunities for physical activity. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — In anticipation of the inaugural International Day of Play on June 11, the UN agencies in Hà Nội celebrated the occasion early onThursday, following the March 25 approval of the UN General Assembly’s resolution initiated by Việt Nam and co-sponsored by 138 countries.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Đỗ Hùng Việt emphasised the importance of play, especially to the well-being and development of children. He stressed the need for all children, whether in urban, rural or remote area, to have access to playgrounds, toys, safe spaces, and opportunities for physical activity.

On the occasion, he called on UN agencies and the private sector to collaborate with Việt Nam in addressing the shortage of games, recreational activities and resources for children.

UNICEF Acting Chief Representative in Việt Nam Leslie Miller thanked the Vietnamese Government for initiating and promoting the resolution on the International Day of Play.

Sharing the same sentiment, Chief Operations Officer of LEGO Group Carsten Rasmussen expressed a desire for continued cooperation with the Vietnamese Government and UNICEF to expand play and learning opportunities for children.

The event also showcased the creativity of Vietnamese children. Over 8,000 artworks were submitted to UNICEF on the theme of dream playgrounds, with 31 chosen for presentation there. — VNS