VOV: What is the significance of UNESCO’s recognising the Citadel as a World Heritage site?

Mr. Son: It is a very objective and sound decision by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee. The citadel was recognised because we have clear archaeological and scientific evidence about of its cultural history and its international popularity.

It is unusual that it has been recognised before the capital’s 1000^th anniversary because it often takes longer to gain UNESCO’s consideration.

Although the citadel has not yet been fully restored, experts from the World Heritage Centre have provided given scientific and historical evidence to identify its importance to the capital.

The recognition has given the Vietnamese people a real sense of pride.

VOV: What has Vietnam done to get recognition?

Mr. Son: It was hard work as the building was damaged during the war, and by weather and human factor. However, we provided scientific proof of its thousand-year existence that met UNESCO’s criteria.

The management and use of the citadel was another problem, facing our preparations for the dossier to be submitted to UNESCO. Therefore, the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee and the Ministries of Defence, Construction and Science and Technology, were asked to cooperate and manage the site.

The Heritage Committee also recommended that the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee prepare a complete dossier for the citadel.

VOV: What are UNESCO’s criteria for its recognition?

Mr. Son: One of the criteria is that the building has existed for a long time and should have its actual age confirmed.

The dossiers clearly show that the Royal Citadel has remained there for a thousand years and that it used to be the seat of power for the emperors who ruled the country.

It was also the place from which Vietnamese feudal dynasties established relations with foreign countries. The citadel used to have important influence on international and regional peace and diplomatic relationships.

VOV: What will the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee and the related agencies do to preserve and maintain the heritage’s value?

Mr. Son: The Prime Minister has decided to preserve the Royal Citadel. But how to restore its integrity is a big challenge.

Hanoians in particular and Vietnamese in general are very proud of the recognition and will make it at any cost.