The International Congress on Spiritual Tourism for Sustainable Development will take place in the northern province of Ninh Binh on November 21 and 22.

It aims to enhance the positive effects of spiritual tourism on economic and social development of communities and societies.

The event will explore ways to integrate living culture, traditions and beliefs into tourism development toward sustainability, based on the four pillars of environment, economy, society, and culture.

It will draw particular attention to the following areas: Understanding and safeguarding of spiritual, religious and cultural values and assets in the context of tourism; development, management, promotion, and interpretation of spiritual tourism products; and socio-economic inclusion and empowerment of local communities, in particular of vulnerable groups.