Culture has been the major bridge connecting countries in the Association of South East Asia Nations (ASEAN), so the cooperation framework for culture should be strengthened, said Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh.
Minh's remark was made at the 6th meeting of ASEAN ministers responsible for culture, held in Hue in the weekend. The deputy minister and minister of foreign affairs also highlighted the contributions by ministers for culture in developing and maintaining cooperation on culture throughout ASEAN.
"The ministers have made strategic decisions related to arts and culture that affected conservation and honouring ASEAN cultural heritages," he said. "This has enhanced the understanding of the diverse cultures in the association."
Minh appraised efforts of the ministers in building a sustainable community of ASEAN culture, and suggested the ministers to remain close to strengthen the cultural bonds.
During the two working days, the ministers discussed recommendations for the sustainable development of ASEAN cultural bonds and open mechanisms for cultural cooperation between ASEAN countries with China, Japan and South Korea.
At the meeting, it was announced that Hue has been chosen as the third ASEAN city of culture, following Singapore and Cebu City of Philippines.
The ASEAN City of Culture is a framework for the promotion of exchanges among people and for raising awareness among ASEAN members on the unique and rich culture of each member.
At the biennial cultural event, the Hue Festival 2014 which began on April 12 and ended yesterday, solidarity between the ASEAN countries has been highlighted through art performances by troupes representing the countries.