Following the first revalidation of the UNESCO Global Geopark title in 2022, Cao Bang Province has actively implemented the recommendations made by UNESCO experts. The protection of geological heritage, environmental resources, ecosystems, biodiversity, and local culture has been carried out comprehensively and effectively.
At the same time, the province has focused on upgrading infrastructure along experiential tourism routes within the Geopark area and has promoted consultation and support for sustainable tourism development at heritage sites and traditional craft villages, achieving many positive outcomes.
Geopark education activities in schools have been actively promoted through the model of the “Geopark Ambassador” Club. In addition, the Geopark management office has actively engaged in international cooperation and maintained close coordination with the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
Notably, the successful hosting of the 8th Asia Pacific Geoparks Symposium in Cao Bang has helped affirm Vietnam’s proactive and responsible role within the United Nations. It has also strengthened the cooperative and enduring relationship between Vietnam and UNESCO, while expanding connections with countries in the region and around the world.
These efforts have significantly contributed to promoting the image of Vietnam – its people, development potential, and especially the natural beauty, cultural richness, and hospitality of Cao Bang.
In preparation for the second revalidation of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, the People’s Committee of Cao Bang Province has issued directives and guidance documents to relevant departments, agencies, and local authorities to implement tasks related to the development and management of the Geopark.
The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has taken the lead, in coordination with other relevant units, in carrying out several key tasks: Completing the revalidation dossier for Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, with consultation from both domestic and international experts, for submission to UNESCO; Cooperating with advisory experts from the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network and national experts to conduct detailed field surveys of heritage clusters, facilities, and infrastructure at heritage sites within the Geopark; assessing conservation efforts and promotion of heritage values; Reviewing the implementation progress of recommendations made by UNESCO experts after the first revalidation in 2022, and advising on necessary preparations for receiving the expert delegation for the second revalidation; Collaborating with the Department of Education and Training to prepare human resources for the revalidation mission, including plans to train English teachers to assist with interpretation and guiding services; Organizing field surveys and evaluating infrastructure, environmental landscapes, and service readiness along the four main tourism routes within the Geopark to ensure optimal conditions for the second revalidation process.
Based on the report by the Provincial People’s Committee and the field survey and evaluation program conducted from May 18 to 20, 2025, in preparation for the second revalidation of the UNESCO Global Geopark title, the delegation of experts from the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network acknowledged the efforts made by Cao Bang in implementing the recommendations of UNESCO experts following the 2022 revalidation.
Cao Bang's effective implementation of these recommendations provides a solid foundation for the upcoming revalidation process and strengthens the province’s position to retain the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark status in June 2025.
The experts recognized the positive outcomes in the management, conservation, and promotion of heritage values, particularly the province’s proactive actions in improving infrastructure, enhancing Geopark-related education, fostering sustainable tourism, and expanding international cooperation.
However, to fully meet the criteria of the upcoming revalidation, the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Global Geopark must continue to prioritize improvements in tourism infrastructure, intensify digital communication, enhance the capacity of local personnel, and finalize the technical contents as required by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
With thorough preparations, strong determination from all levels of government, the active participation of local communities, and professional support from experts within the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, Cao Bang is confident in its ability to fully meet the criteria and requirements of the second revalidation for the UNESCO Global Geopark title.
Through this process, the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark continues to affirm its role as an active and responsible member of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, while also contributing to the widespread promotion of Cao Bang’s unique natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and people to both domestic and international community.
Author: Luong Ngoc Thao
Reader Comments
Newer articles
Older articles