“City for peace” title gives Hanoi new facelift
VGP - Ha Noi is the sole city in Asia to be recognised as City for Peace by UNESCO thanks to the ceaseless efforts by municipal authorities and city dwellers to meet the organisation’s standards in economics, culture, education and urban development, among others.
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Sword Lake |
Ha Noi posted a 7.4% gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate in the first half of this year, a 1.5-fold increase against that of the nation, according to the municipal People’s Committee.
The city’s economy expanded by 7.4% in the period, driven by a 14.4% growth in exports. Inflows of foreign direct investment hit X3 million, up over 30% year-on-year.
Recently, the city spent over VND17.1 trillion (around $1.1 billion) building new-style rural areas, which covers building infrastructure and public works, protecting landscape and environment, and promoting local traditions and cultural identities.
As a safe and attractive destination with many historical relics, Ha Noi records an annual increase of over 10 percent in the number foreign holidaymakers. Last year, the city welcomed the 25 millionth overseas tourists, according to the municipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
The City for Peace recognition is not only the honour but also a challenge for the capital to promote these achievements and ease pressures from rapid urbanisation and environmental pollution, participants said.
In 1999, Ha Noi was among five cities in five continents presented with the award by the UNESCO in recognition of its contributions to the struggle for peace.-VNA
