Ho Chi Minh City, July 1 -- Ho Chi Minh City has evolved into Vietnam's leading economic and cultural hub, driven not only by economic growth and global integration but also by the formation of an open, diverse urban identity rooted in cultural convergence. Cultural values shape city's identity Experts say the city's reform spirit has been sustained by deeply rooted cultural values rather than institutional changes alone. The defining characteristics of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City residents - dynamism, openness, pragmatism, innovation, and compassion -have underpinned successive waves of reform, from the early Doi Moi (Renewal) experiments to recent special development mechanisms. Researchers from the Ho Chi Minh City Cadre Academy argue th...