Hoang Thai Ha, Chairman of the Trade Union of the Diplomatic Service Bureau, described the festival as a platform where cuisine acts as a "universal language" to bring people from diverse cultural backgrounds closer together.

According to Ha, the festival is an opportunity to promote Vietnam’s culture and people to the international community. It serves as a celebration of global culinary diversity while highlighting the richness of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Additionally, it fosters cultural diplomacy, strengthens Vietnam’s international image, and broadens opportunities for global cooperation.

Hanoi Pho and Nam Dinh Pho, both recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage, are also being considered for submission to UNESCO for designation as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage, according to culinary artisan Le Thi Thiet.

“While Hanoi Pho and Nam Dinh Pho each have distinct characteristics, they share similarities in origin, the culture of pho consumption, and the craftsmanship behind it. For this reason, we will bring Nam Dinh beef pho and Hanoi pho rolls to the festival for visitors to enjoy,” shared artisan Le Thi Thiet.

The International Culinary Festival 2024 will be held from December 7 to December 8 at the Diplomatic Corps area in Hanoi.

The event will feature 70 international food stalls representing 60 countries, offering a culinary journey that celebrates cultural exchange and the artistry of global cuisine.

Tinh Le