A view of Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — A wide range of activities will be held to celebrate UNESCO's recognition of Hà Nội as a “City for Peace” 20 years ago, Bùi Thị Thu Hiền, deputy director of the municipal Department of Culture and Sports, said on Tuesday.

A meeting will take place at Lý Thái Tổ flower garden near Hoàn Kiếm Lake on Saturday with the attendance of Party and State leaders as well as delegates from home and abroad to celebrate the recognition granted on July 16, 1999.

At the event, nearly 10,000 people are expected to join a walk for peace. A street festival will be held to create a picture of cultural diversity and promote Hà Nội as a destination of peace, friendship and cooperation.

A workshop titled “Hà Nội – City for Peace – 20 years of Integration and Development” will be held on the same day.

A festival featuring art and cultural activities will be organised from July 13-14. This will include music nights themed “I Love Hà Nội” and “Lighting for Peace”, and an introduction to UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage in Việt Nam, such as “bài chòi” singing in the central region and “nhã nhạc” (Huế royal court music).

At the “Friendship Village” exhibition on Lê Thạch Street, foreign organisations and embassies will set up pavilions introducing the cultures of participating countries such as China, India and Laos.

A photo exhibition featuring the elegance and politeness of Hanoians is scheduled to take place in July and August. Another exhibit from July to December will display photos and documents on activities to heal the wounds of the war between Việt Nam and the US, and promote peace worldwide.

The city has launched a writing contest on “Hà Nội – City for Peace” from April to October and a competition to select a friendship ambassador for peace from May to November. 

Hà Nội was honoured by UNESCO as a “City for Peace” in La Paz, Bolivia, in 1999. — VNS