HA NOI  —  Ha Noi authorities say they will turn the city into a cultural centre by 2020 – the first of its kind in Viet Nam.

They claim the capital will become a cultural model for other cities and provinces.

The plan is to develop a system of museums and centres to preserve Vietnamese culture.

Statues, statues, squares and parks will be enhanced and theatres, cinemas and libraries developed along with the performing arts and system.

A 60,000 sq.m. area of the ancient Thang Long Royal Citadel at 18 Hoang Dieu Street will be turned into a historical and archaeological park. It is expected to open in 2016.

The Old Quarter will be preserved and restoration of old temples, pagodas and community halls completed by 2015.

The authorities claim they will move 70 per cent of the people now living in the popular tourist area to new urban areas. — VNS