In his message, the Prime Minister warmly praised the singer for his outstanding effort and remarkable achievement, noting that this victory marks a proud moment not only for the artist himself but also for Vietnamese contemporary music and culture.

The letter praised Phuc’s powerful rendition of Phu Dong Thien Vuong (Heavenly Prince of Phu Dong), inspired by the poem Tre Viet Nam (Vietnamese Bamboo), at the contest finale on Saturday. Through his soulful performance, the singer conveyed the story of unity, resilience, and the nation’s aspirations to rise, which deeply impressed both the international audience and judges.

This success is not only a great personal honor for Phuc but also a source of pride for Vietnamese music and culture, the Prime Minister wrote. He stressed that this year marked Vietnam’s first-ever participation in Intervision, sending a meaningful message that music transcends differences to connect nations worldwide.

Prime Minister Chinh expressed his hope that this victory will motivate Phuc and other Vietnamese artists to continue nurturing their talents, pushing creative boundaries, and making positive contributions to national music and culture. He also encouraged them to bring Vietnamese cultural values to the global stage and inspire young generations to devote themselves to creativity.

Concluding the letter, the Prime Minister wished Phuc and the community of Vietnamese artists good health and abundant energy to dedicate themselves to audiences at home and abroad so that Vietnamese music can take its place in the hearts of global music lovers.

In this year’s Intervision contest, Kyrgyzstan’s Nomad Trio finished second in the final rankings with 373 points for Zhalgyz Saga (Only for You), a performance that blended traditional Kyrgyz elements with modern arrangements. Dana Al Meer from Qatar placed third with Huwa Dha Anta (It is You), leaving a strong impression on judges and audiences alike.

The Intervision contest, originally organized by the International Radio and Television Organization, was held in Czechoslovakia from 1965 to 1968 and later revived in Sopot, Poland, from 1977 to 1980. After a hiatus of more than 40 years, the competition now attracts participants from countries including Cuba, Kyrgyzstan, China, Egypt, the U.S., Kenya, Kazakhstan, UAE, Russia, Brazil, Tajikistan, Qatar, Madagascar, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Ethiopia, Venezuela, Serbia, South Africa, Vietnam, Belarus, and Uzbekistan. Saudi Arabia will host next year.

Phuc, 28, was invited by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to compete. He first rose to prominence in 2015 as the winner of The Voice of Vietnam and has since delivered numerous hits, known for his emotional ballads and compelling performances.

rendition –n. a performance or interpretation of a musical piece or role

resilience –n. the ability to recover quickly from difficulties

transcend –v. to rise above or go beyond the limits of something

compelling –adj. very interesting, able to capture attention or evoke strong admiration