Introductory panels for the Thang Long-Hanoi Imperial Citadel – a gift from Australia
Australian Ambassador HE Mr Hugh Borrowman today officially handed-over to Hanoi fourteen introductory panels about the Thang Long–Hanoi Imperial Citadel. These world class bilingual panels explain key parts of the World Heritage-listed Thang Long Citadel to both foreign and local visitors, increasing awareness and understanding of this remarkable historical and cultural relic.
“I am delighted to see this project come to fruition after a number of years of collaboration,” said Mr Borrowman. “The Thang Long Citadel, now over 1,000 years old, is a significant historic and tourist site in Vietnam. That Australia and Vietnam can collaborate on such an important project is a great reflection of the level of friendship and confidence between our two countries,” he added.
Funded by the Australian Government, the panels were produced following consultations and preparations between experts and officials from Australia and Vietnam. Australian heritage expert Professor William Logan worked closely with the Co Loa Ancient Citadel Preservation Centre in Vietnam to develop the content and images for the panels. They were manufactured in Australia and have been installed in the Thang Long Citadel, as Australia's gift to Hanoi.
“We warmly welcome the presentation of these panels from Australia, which will contribute to a greater and wider appreciation of our Citadel,” said Mr Le Hong Son, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee.
The collaboration project is designed to support tourism development in Vietnam through developing informative and accessible content for visitors, as well as assisting in institutional capacity building in the historical/tourism sector.
Combining images and text, in both English and Vietnamese, these panels will withstand harsh climates and will last for 20 years or more, to introduce the Thang Long Citadel to future generations, and as a lasting symbol of the friendship between Australia and Vietnam.
For further information, please contact Ms Dinh Thi Viet Anh, Senior Public Affairs Officer at [email protected] or mobile: 0903 423 440.