UNESCO Representative to Vietnam Christian Manhart. (Photo: VNA/Thong Nhat)

Christian Manhart highlighted Vietnam’s competitiveness for tourism, which he said lies in its rich and exceptional culture and nature. At present, Vietnam owns 8 World Heritage sites and 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage Elements, which show the huge potentials, he said, adding that Vietnam is very successful in connecting tangible with its intangible heritage.

An example and one of his favorite experiences is the Ao Dai Festival last April at the Complex of Yen Tu Monuments and Landscape. Another advantage is that the Vietnamese government is well aware of the value of its culture and heritage as a driver for economic and social development, said Manhart.