HCMC – Vietnamese and Dutch government representatives, yesterday, March 21, sat down together at the Mekong Delta Business Forum in HCMC to discuss the common challenges of climate change and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Mark Harbers, minister of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands, underscored the country’s extensive expertise in water management, drawing on hundreds years of experience.
He stressed the need to embrace a unified approach involving government, knowledge institutions, and the private sector. “Water safety involves working with all stakeholders,” he noted.
Tran Thanh Nam, Vietnamese deputy minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, praised the collaboration on climate adaptation and water management with the Netherlands. He stressed the Mekong Delta’s vital role in national food security and called for further initiatives between the two nations in the region.
The forum saw 18 cooperation agreements signed between Vietnam and the Netherlands, focusing on sustainable development. The projects include mangrove-based aquaculture, food supply chains, and Mekong Delta rice cultivation techniques.
Notably, a one million euro investment is expected to enhance climate resilience and sustainable agriculture practices for local farmers.
This forum was part of an ongoing visit to Vietnam by a high-level Dutch delegation, led by Minister Harbers. The economic mission also includes Christianne van der Wal, minister for Nature and Nitrogen Policy, Ingrid Thijssen, president of the Confederation of Netherlands Industry and Employers, and 140 Dutch business executives.
The working trip aims to strengthen economic ties and promote sustainable development initiatives between the two nations.
