First of all, on behalf of the United Nations in Viet Nam, allow me to convey our heartiest congratulations to His Excellency Prime Minister and the people of Viet Nam on the occasion of the 45^th anniversary of Viet Nam’s United Nations membership. It is a great honor for me to be in Nghia Lo, Yen Bai today. We have gathered here to celebrate the inscription of the Art of Xòe dance of the Tai people on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This outstanding cultural practice was officially accredited to the Representative List in December 2021 at the 16^th Intergovernmental Committee Meeting of the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Please allow me to briefly explain what this means: an Intangible Cultural Heritage is a practice, representation, expression, knowledge, or skill considered to be an instrumental part of a community’s cultural heritage.

The Art of Xòe dance holds a special place in the hearts of many. Gentle dance moves blend with instrumental music, vocals, and the jingling of silver jewellery hanging around the waists of Tai women. At its essence, Xòe dance is a social art that focuses on people’s relationships with each other. It reminds us of what is important in our lives – the relationships we forge and deepen with our family and friends; with our nearest community and beyond. Anyone can join the dance - regardless of gender, age, or social status. As such, it is a truly inclusive form of art.

The Art of Xòe dance is central to the cultural identity of the Tai people here in the northwestern region of Viet Nam. As you know, the Tai are one of 54 ethnic groups. Each community have a rich array of traditions and cultural practices. This occasion reminds us of the importance to celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone living in Viet Nam has the freedom and dignity to practice their culture. Let us take this as an opportunity to update policies on cultural expressions to provide favourable conditions for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage and supporting the preservation of ethnic cultural identities.

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

We live in rapidly changing times. Occasions such as this mark an important opportunity to pause and reflect. Tonight, let us remember that the Xòe dance celebrated is not only for the audience present – or for the Tai community – but for the entire world as a unique expression of the diverse cultural creativity of humanity. 

On behalf of the UN, I would like to congratulate and thank the Government, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the leadership of the Yen Bai and other participating provinces, the UNESCO National Commission, local communities and all those who have contributed to making the Art of Xoe dance an Intangible Cultural Heritage; it is a most worthy addition. I wish you all an enjoyable evening, peace, happiness and good health. 

Thank you.