(VOVworld) – Water and River Basin Management – A Green Growth Approach is high on the agenda of an Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) workshop opening Wednesday in the southern city of Can Tho. The workshop, which draws 150 delegates from 51 ASEM members and relevant organizations, is the first activity under a joint initiative of six Mekong–Danube Cooperation Initiative nations, adopted at the ASEM 9 Summit. The 6 members of the initiative include Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.

(Photo: VNA)

Participants will discuss ways to enhance cooperation in using and managing water resources and the river basin to encourage green growth, ecological preservation, climate change adaptation, food and energy security, and local livelihood. Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy, Deputy Head of the Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said: The workshop held in Can Tho city is of great significance. We hope it will be a success to affirm the efforts by Vietnam, and Can Tho city in particular, in managing water resources. The workshop is well-prepared. ASEM members have great enthusiasm on this issue, seen through a large number of participants registered and the participation of senior leaders and high-profile experts of ASEM and other international organizations.

On this occasion, the 2013 World Water Day themed “Water Cooperation” will be celebrated, including a national meeting and a symposium.