(Photo: toquoc.vn)

The meeting was followed by a walk for peace, traditional dragon dance, displays of cultural heritages, and parades.  

“I feel so proud to be a Hanoian. I hope that not only Hanoi but other cities in Vietnam will be recognized as cities for peace," said Hanoian Nguyen Thi Thom.

"The programs are so fabulous. I am very excited. I took lots of photos and video clips to show them to my mother," said Hanoian Le Thi Bac.

Deputy Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung, Chairman of the Vietnam National UNESCO Committee, said over the past 1,000 years, Hanoi has strengthened its position as a political, cultural, economic, scientific and technological hub of Vietnam.

“The title is great pride for Hanoi. It is considered a city for trust and hope. Peace is the desire of human being. Thus, the UNESCO Charter stresses that since wars begin in the minds of men and women, it is in the minds of men and women that the defenses of peace must be pursued”.