On the morning of November 1, Minister Nguyen Van Hung of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism presented the investment plan for the National Target Program for Cultural Development, covering the 2025-2030 period, to the National Assembly.

The minister highlighted that the program would operate nationwide and in select countries where Vietnamese cultural relations are long-standing and where many Vietnamese live, work, or study.

The program will mobilize an estimated 122.25 trillion VND for 2025-2030, with funding sources projected at 134 trillion VND for 2031-2035. According to Minister Nguyen, the government has balanced the program’s budget by allocating approximately 77 trillion VND from the central budget, 30.25 trillion VND from local budgets, and around 15 trillion VND from other legal sources.

Set to run from 2025 to 2035, the program is divided into phases. The initial phase in 2025 will establish the policies and guidelines needed for implementation. From 2026-2030, the program will focus on addressing limitations and challenges. The final phase from 2031-2035 will continue building a vibrant Vietnamese culture that embodies national identity, reinforcing culture as a source of national strength.

The program consists of ten primary objectives:

1. Developing Vietnamese citizens with strong character and values.

2. Fostering a healthy cultural environment and improving cultural infrastructure and landscapes.

3. Enhancing public information and cultural education.

4. Preserving and promoting national cultural heritage.

5. Advancing Vietnamese literature and arts.

6. Growing cultural industries.

7. Embracing digital transformation and applying scientific and technological advancements in cultural fields.

8. Building a robust cultural workforce.

9. Promoting international cultural integration and showcasing Vietnamese culture worldwide.

10. Strengthening program monitoring, evaluation, and public awareness.

Chairman of the National Assembly’s Committee for Culture and Education Nguyen Dac Vinh presented an appraisal report on the program, expressing agreement with the proposal for establishing Vietnamese cultural centers abroad, aligning with the country’s strategic priorities.

However, some suggest that the government carefully consider investment in these centers, ensuring feasibility, effectiveness, and alignment with available resources.

Regarding the program’s funding, Vinh’s committee agrees with the projected investment and the plan for capital sources, emphasizing the need for appropriate allocation to implement the Party’s vision for cultural advancement effectively.

Some opinions suggest further evaluating the program’s total cost, structure, and ability to secure resources to ensure feasibility and effective use of the national budget.

Tran Thuong