Quang Ninh (VNA) - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attended a ceremony at the Yen Tu Historical and Scenic Relic Site in the northern province of Quang Ninh on August 17 to mark the official recognition of the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
In his address, PM Chinh emphasised that this prestigious recognition is not only a point of pride for the three localities of Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, and Hai Phong, but also a meaningful tribute to the distinctive values of the Truc Lam Zen Buddhist tradition - an essential force in shaping Vietnam’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 Quang 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 Yen Tu – An Eternal Heritage” was performed during the ceremony. It traced the spiritual journey of King Tran Nhan Tong, who, after fulfilling his royal duties, renounced the throne and founded the Truc Lam Zen School at Yen Tu. His philosophy of “living joyfully in the world” championed reconciliation, peace, and harmony - core values that remain relevant today.
Phan Duc An, Chairman of the Quang 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, Quang Ninh, Bac Giang, and Hai Phong expressed their collective confidence that the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex will continue to flourish - not only as a spiritual and cultural icon of Vietnam, but also as a global destination that promotes peace, human values, and intellectual heritage.
Also speaking at the event, Jonathan Wallace Baker, UNESCO Representative in Vietnam, highlighted the universal significance of the site. He noted that Yen Tu symbolises Vietnam’s spiritual identity and the unique way in which national character has been shaped by Buddhism, indigenous culture, and philosophical values.
The Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex is the 9th world heritage of Vietnam and the second inter-provincial world heritage, after Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago in Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong city.
Located in the provinces of Quang Ninh and Bac Ninh, and Hai Phong city, it includes 12 locations with a core area of 525.75 hectares and a buffer zone of 4,380.19 hectares.
With Truc Lam Buddhism as its core, the site was established in the 13th century by the Tran Dynasty’s kings, especially the role of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong. Truc Lam Buddhist Zen sect has created many values, making special and sustainable contributions to the cultural and spiritual heritage of humanity./.
