Hanoi: Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has approved the submission of the scientific dossier on the Oc Eo - Ba The archaeological site in southern An Giang province to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for consideration and inclusion on the world heritage list. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism was authorised to thoroughly review, finalise, and sign the dossier before submitting it to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, ensuring compliance with quality standards and deadlines. The special national relic, representing the ancient Oc Eo Civilisation, spans 433.1 hectares in Oc Eo commune. The civilisation, which flourished in southern Vietnam from the 1st to the 7th centuries, was first discovered in 1942 by French archaeologist Louis Malleret through artefacts unearthed in Ba The Mountain area, now part of Oc Eo commune.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the dossier aims to highlight the historical and cultural significance of the Oc Eo - Ba The site, which is a testament to the ancient civilisation that once thrived in the region. This step is part of a broader effort by Vietnamese authorities to gain international recognition for their cultural heritage sites, which they hope will boost tourism and preserve their cultural history for future generations.