Tô Lâm Highlights Role of Ethnic Leaders in Preserving Việtnam’s Cultural Identity
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Tô Lâm on Saturday lauded the enduring and often unrecognized contributions of village elders, community leaders, artisans, and prominent figures among ethnic groups across the country, describing them as custodians of Việtnam’s cultural roots and identity.
He made these remarks while receiving representatives from ethnic communities nationwide on the occasion of Vietnamese Ethnic Culture Day, an annual event celebrating the nation’s rich cultural diversity.
The Party General Secretary and State President emphasized that preserving ethnic cultures goes beyond safeguarding heritage, underscoring its vital role in maintaining the spiritual foundation of society, strengthening national unity, and fostering sustainable development.
Highlighting their importance, President Lâm noted that village elders and respected community figures serve not only as keepers of tradition but also as “spiritual anchors” who foster trust, cohesion, and stability at the grassroots level.
He acknowledged that, in recent years, coordinated efforts by the Party, State, local authorities, and citizens have yielded significant progress in preserving and promoting ethnic cultural values, resulting in increased public awareness and positive societal change.
However, he also pointed to emerging challenges, some of which are long-term and directly impact the foundation of sustainable national development. Stressing the need for cultural self-awareness, he remarked, “Only when culture is nurtured based on the self-awareness and pride of each individual can it exist and develop sustainably.”
Expressing confidence in continued grassroots leadership, President Lâm said that village elders, artisans, and community figures would remain instrumental in upholding cultural identity and reinforcing national solidarity.
He further highlighted the importance of integrating cultural preservation with livelihood development, particularly through community-based tourism, enabling local populations to sustain their traditions while improving economic well-being.
“Development is not just about adding new things, but also about preserving and leveraging inherent positive values,” he said.
On the occasion, the President urged the government, ministries, and local authorities to effectively implement the Party’s cultural development policies, identifying cultural preservation as a central pillar of rapid and sustainable national progress.
Established in 2008 by a decision of the Prime Minister, Vietnamese Ethnic Culture Day, observed annually on April 19, has become a significant national event, bringing together ethnic communities to celebrate their traditions through festivals and cultural activities.
