Quang Ninh (VNA)൲ — The success story in preserving and promoting the values of world natural heritage Ha Long Bay in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh is a model for other world heritage sites that face similar challenges to learn, said Vishal V. Sharma, Ambassador and Chair of the 46th World Heritage Committee.

Speaking at a ceremony in Quang Ninh province on December 14 to mark the 30th anniversary of Ha Long Bay's recognition as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site (December 17, 1994 – 2024), Sharma acknowledged Vietnam’s efforts in protecting the site. He said Ha Long Bay is not only a site of exceptional natural beauty but also a source of inspirations, showcasing the power of nature and deep cultural significance. Over the past three decades, this iconic heritage site has connected communities worldwide, reminding people of the importance of preserving heritage and global wonders for future generations. In her remarks at the celebration, Deputy Chairwoman of the Quang Ninh provincial People's Committee, Nguyen Thi Hanh, highlighted Ha Long Bay's significant contributions to the development of Quang Ninh, saying that it has played a crucial role in positioning tourism as a key economic pillar and improving the living standards of local residents. She noted that Ha Long Bay's recognition as Vietnam's first natural world heritage site has brought pride but also responsibility. Quang Ninh has learned valuable lessons about the close relationship between conservation and heritage promotion, as well as the importance of concerted coordination from central to grassroots levels and efforts of businesses, people and the community. Currently, Quang Ninh is preparing to report to the government a conservation and enhancement plan for Ha Long Bay for a new period. The focus will be on continuing research and gathering scientific data on the two values recognised by UNESCO, as well as clarifying the cultural, historical, and biodiversity values of the bay. The province aims to submit a dossier to UNESCO for consideration of cultural and biodiversity criteria under the 1972 Convention. This heritage site is expanded to Cat Ba Island in neighbouring Hai Phong city, making it the first world heritage site in Vietnam that spans in two localities. Therefore, Quang Ninh is actively enhancing collaboration with Hai Phong to effectively manage the preservation of the heritage, protect the ecological environment, apply scientific and technological advancements, and promote international cooperation and awareness about the site. Additionally, the province is researching and developing new tourism products aimed at high-quality tourism, capitalising on the values and potential of the heritage. Strengthening connections with other Vietnamese heritage sites, such as the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Trang An, the Ho Dynasty Citadel, the ancient capital of Hue, My Son Sanctuary, and Hoi An, is key to creating a network of prominent destinations and establishing Ha Long as a major tourist hub regionally and internationally. On this occasion, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Dao Cuong urged Quang Ninh and stakeholders to conduct thorough forecasting, assessment, and identification of the current situation, determining unique strengths, opportunities, competitive advantages, and challenges in management. He emphasised the need for proactive and innovative resource mobilisation to ensure effective management, preservation, and enhancement of heritage values, transitioning from a "brown" to a "green" development model sustainably. Since 1996, Ha Long bay has welcomed over 57 million visitors, generating more than 8.6 trillion VND (338.5 million USD) in entrance fees. It has truly become a renowned brand for tourism in Quang Ninh, Vietnam and the world, attracting many domestic and international tourists. Tourism products and services in Ha Long Bay are increasingly diverse, featuring eight sightseeing routes and five clusters of overnight accommodations. Quang Ninh is expanding its tourism space by developing regional specialties to enhance connectivity among Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, Van Don, and Co To, thereby easing tourism activity in the protected areas of the heritage site. The province is also committed to improving tourism service quality and implementing a code of conduct for civilised tourism and Ha Long smiles./.