HUE – The 14th East Asia Local and Regional Government Congress is scheduled to take place in the central city of Hue from June 5 to 7, with more than 200 delegates expected to attend.
The participants will represent 16 localities across four countries, 18 domestic localities, two international organizations, and other stakeholders.
Organized by the Hue City People’s Committee in collaboration with Japan’s Nara Prefectural Government, the conference will center on two main themes: “Green and Sustainable Tourism Development” and “Smart City Development.”
The session on “Green and Sustainable Tourism Development” will explore two key topics: “Health and Wellness Tourism – Unlocking Potential, Creating Trends” and “Plastic-Reducing Tourism Contributing to Net Zero Goals.”
Discussions will focus on sharing experiences and solutions among government agencies, businesses, and experts in promoting green tourism, particularly in the areas of health and wellness and plastic reduction. Delegates will also explore sustainable tourism models that balance economic growth with environmental protection, and propose policies aimed at reducing the tourism sector’s environmental impact in support of Net Zero goals.
The “Smart City Development” session, themed “Data-Driven Smart Governance,” will highlight the sharing of experiences and challenges, along with the presentation of effective management and technological solutions. Focus areas will include smart transportation, healthcare, education, urban order management via surveillance systems, and comprehensive digital urban planning.
The congress is regarded as a multilateral platform for local governments in East Asia and has been held annually since its inception by Nara Prefecture in 2010. The event was launched to commemorate the 1,300th anniversary of Nara, historically known as Heijo-kyo, and brings together local authorities from Japan, China, South Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Over the past 13 editions, the congress has served as a venue for representatives to share development experiences, foster exchanges, strengthen diplomatic ties, and contribute to regional peace and progress. Participating members have discussed urban governance and management, promoted their localities, and expanded cooperation with fellow forum members. Currently, 76 localities from seven countries are involved in the initiative, with Nara Prefecture acting as the forum’s permanent secretariat.
Thua Thien-Hue Province, now Hue City, officially joined the forum in 2011. During the 13th edition held in May 2024 in Xi’an, China, Hue announced its bid to host the 2025 congress following an agreement with Nara Prefecture.
This year’s congress is being held as part of the National Tourism Year – Hue 2025. It is expected to generate broad impact across communications, diplomacy, tourism, and regional cooperation for both Hue City and Vietnam. The 14th edition will also mark a symbolic milestone as the ancient capitals of Hue and Nara sign a joint cooperation agreement aimed at promoting the cultural identity of historical capitals and advancing sustainable regional development.
