(VOVworld)- A ceremony was held in Ninh Binh province on Friday to receive UNESCO’s certificate on recognizing Trang An Scenic Complex as a World Natural and Cultural Heritage.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam said that with UNESCO recognition, Trang An has become an asset of the humanity.  The site will contribute to promoting the image of Vietnam to the world and its recognition will create new opportunities for the development of Vietnam’s tourism. Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam said:“Local authorities, researchers and the public need to make effort to preserve and promote this heritage. By doing so, Trang An complex in Ninh Binh province will always be an ideal destination for everyone”.

Covering an area of over 6,000 hectares, the Trang An complex consists of the Hoa Lu ancient citadel, Trang An-Tam Coc-Bich Dong natural scenic site, and the Hoa Lu primeval forest. The complex is often called Vietnam's Ha Long Bay on land. It is the first mixed natural and cultural heritage in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.