Mr. Jonathan Baker’s remarks UNESCO Representative to Viet Nam

- H.E Mai Van Chinh – Member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam; Deputy Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam,

-Excellencies Leaders, former Leaders of the Central Party Committee, the State, 

-Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ministries, President of Viet Nam National Commission for UNESCO, and agencies

-Excellencies Leaders of Provinces of Quang Ninh, Hai Phong and Bac Ninh

-Distinguished Ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic corps, and international organizations, 

-Representative of Viet Nam Buddhist Sangha

- Distinguished guests, and community members,

Today is a very special day, the Parinirvana Day of Buddha King Tran Nhan Tong. It is a honor to join you in this special occasion in celebrating the inscription of the Yen Tu–Vinh Nghiem–Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex of Monuments and Landscapes on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. This recognition is not only a tribute to the exceptional cultural and spiritual values of this property but also a testament to Vietnam’s unwavering commitment to heritage preservation and sustainable development.

This complex tells a remarkable story, the birth and enduring legacy of Trúc Lâm Zen Buddhism, a uniquely Vietnamese tradition founded in the 13th century by King-Buddha Tran Nhan Tong and nurtured by generations of monastic leaders. Rooted in the sacred Yen Tu Mountain Range, Trúc Lâm Buddhism harmonizes Mahayana Buddhist, Confucian, Taoist, and local Vietnamese beliefs creating a harmonious vision of life that promotes peace, compassion, and personal integrity. These ideals shaped Vietnamese identity and continue to inspire communities today, both in Viet Nam and across the world.

Spanning three provinces Quang Ninh, Bac Ninh, and Hai Phong the complex comprises majestic mountains, spiritual springs, ancient pagodas, hermitages, pilgrimage routes, and ritual landscapes. These sites are not relics of the past; they are living heritage, vibrant centers of spiritual practice and cultural continuity. They embody humanity’s universal ideals of peace, resilience, and compassion.

The inscription of this property reflects years of dedicated effort. I commend the Government of Viet Nam, the provincial authorities, experts, and the local communities for their tireless work in safeguarding authenticity and integrity while promoting inclusive development. I also wish to acknowledge the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO for its pivotal role in coordinating this nomination and fostering dialogue between national stakeholders and the international community. Your collaboration with UNESCO and ICOMOS demonstrates a strong alignment with global standards and sets an inspiring example of partnership.

This inscription is not just a recognition of the past, it marks the beginning of a shared journey. It is a call to action and a solemn responsibility to safeguard the Outstanding Universal Value of this property for generations to come. Protecting this heritage will require vigilance in the face of rapid urbanization, tourism growth, and climate change. I encourage continued efforts to embed heritage protection at the heart of development strategies. UNESCO stands ready to provide technical guidance and foster dialogue to strengthen joint management among the three provinces, harmonize visitor management, and engage communities in stewardship.

This achievement is more than a national success, it is a gift to humanity. The Yen Tu-Vinh Nghiem-Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex of Monuments and Landscapes  will serve as a beacon of cultural pride and a bridge of dialogue between Viet Nam and the world. May it inspire future generations to cherish their heritage and uphold the values of peace and harmony that this sacred landscape represents.

Congratulations to all who contributed to this historic achievement. Thank you.