The US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced yesterday that it would allocate about US$41 million to help Viet Nam address the effects of climate change and land use.
“We are pleased to support Viet Nam through these new programmes that encourage energy efficiency, explore the possible development of renewable energy technologies, and assist people living in vulnerable forest and delta areas,” newly-arrived USAID Mission Director Joakim Parker said at yesterday’s press briefing.
The two five-year programmes are expected to be implemented this month.
The USAID Viet Nam Forest and Deltas Programme will address the deforestation and degradation of forests and other landscapes, thus increasing the resilience of people, places and livelihoods in delta areas.
The Viet Nam Clean Energy Programme will contribute approximately $12 million to increase energy efficiency in high-use energy sectors in cooperation with the ministries of Industry and Trade and Construction and relevant Government agencies. It will also utilise public and private investment to pilot renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies.
Parker, who assumed his new position in September, said USAID was also working on its new development strategy with Viet Nam for 2013-18.
Since 2000, the agency has provided more than $588 million for development and relief efforts in the country.
