Ha Long Bay first became a world heritage site in 1994 thanks to its global aesthetic value. In 2000, the UN cultural agency recognised Ha Long Bay again for its geological and geomorphological value.
A year later, it was voted as one of the new seven wonders of nature. In the past two decades, Quang Ninh Province made several efforts to preserve and enhance the value of Ha Long Bay, fulfilling its commitment to UNESCO.
At the ceremony, the National Assembly Standing Committee announced the merging of neighbouring district Hoành Bồ to the city of Ha Long, in the latest effort to boost socio-economic development while preserving Ha Long more efficiently.
