HCM CITY  (VNS) — The newly established UNESCO Centre for Humane Sciences and Community (UNESCOM) on Thursday awarded merit certificates to five charitable organisations during its inauguration ceremony held in HCM City.

Le Van Tuan, UNESCOM general director, said the centre was established to develop friendship and solidarity among groups of different skin colours, beliefs and languages.

Beside social purposes, the centre will conduct research and promote cultural and scientific work of the community.

The centre's upcoming activities will focus on helping the poor and disabled as well as honouring soldiers in rural areas and islands.— VNS