Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to UNESCO, presents Vietnam's initiative. (Photo: Anh Tuan/VOV)

Addressing the organization’s 222nd session in Paris on Wednesday, Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to UNESCO, said the initiative emphasized its overarching objective of promoting the vital role of culture in advancing sustainable development in nations, while contributing to addressing the world’s complex challenges to ensure a safe and prosperous future for all.

Following UNESCO’s procedure, the proposal will be submitted to the organization’s General Conference this November, and subsequently to the UN General Assembly for approval, expected in 2026. UNESCO’s approval marks an important first step towards the formal declaration of the International Decade on Culture for Sustainable Development.

The initiative demonstrates Vietnam's contribution to advancing UNESCO’s mission, objectives, and role, particularly in culture. It also showcases Vietnam’s active and responsible engagement as a member of the UNESCO Executive Board for the 2021-2025 term.