The International Conference on Sustainable Ocean Economy and Climate Change Adaptation is held in Hanoi and online. (Photo: VGP)

Themed “Solutions for a Resilient Blue Economy”, the conference discussed key opportunities to promote sustainable use of marine resources, major challenges of the COVID-19 crisis, climate change, and pollution, especially marine plastic pollution. Delegates identified opportunities to enhance actions to protect marine ecosystems for marine economic recovery and economic development and improve the resilience of vulnerable communities and countries. Countries exchanged good practices and research results on sustainable marine economic development and climate change response strategies and actions.  

Sustainable ocean economic development: Key to prosperity

As a country that suffers often from natural disasters and the effects of climate change, Vietnam is fully aware of the challenges. It has always taken the lead in the fight against climate change and made strong commitments with the international community to a sustainable ocean economy.

At the Conference Vietnam made 5 commitments: To create a legal environment for a sustainable ocean economy and climate change adaptation; to create a UN-managed database on the multi-dimensional impacts of climate change, sea water rise, and plastic waste to support policy-making for a global response; to resolve security challenges deriving from climate change by promoting and building regional and global security cooperation mechanisms; to strengthen the recovery capacity of the ocean economy following the COVID-19 pandemic and the adaptability of vulnerable countries, and communities; and to encourage investment, study, development, technology transfer, and improved awareness for a sustainable ocean economy.

Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh addresses the Conference (qdnd.vn)

Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh stressed the importance of international cooperation in responding to maritime challenges. “The management of marine resources and activities, such as aquaculture, fishing, transport, tourism, and ocean-based energy generation, requires advanced technologies and international cooperation. Developed countries should provide financial support and share management practices and technology. Developing countries should quickly acquire blue ocean technology and managerial skills to resolve global maritime issues.”

Resolute actions for the ocean

Vietnam has approximately 70 million people (72% of its population) living in 28 coastal cities and provinces, the Mekong Delta, and the Red River Delta. 83% of Vietnam’s rice productivity is concentrated in lowland and coastal provinces, which are also dynamic development areas. Lately many coastal cities and provinces have recorded rapid subsidence rates, which may higher than sea water rise rates due to natural and human causes, causing huge pressure on urban infrastructure.

Security risks related to climate change are growing concerns. Climate change has worsened and created more global security risks. Vietnam is determined to sustainably develop its ocean economy with close collaboration with the international community.

Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Le Minh Ngan, said: “Vietnam has always been a responsible member of the international community. Vietnam is ready to cooperate with other countries in sharing scientific knowledge, experience, resources, and integrated management initiatives for a sustainable and climate-resilient blue ocean economy.”

Vietnam fully understands the value of sustainable ocean economic development which is resilient to climate change, ensures social welfare for all people, and fulfills the responsibility to protect seas and oceans for future generations. The Conference’s results will contribute to strengthening connectivity and cooperation between countries and regions to protect oceans and the future of humankind.