Vietnam is joining international efforts to cope with climate change by developing a low carbon economy and a green model of growth, says a senior official.
Deputy Minister of National Resources and the Environment Nguyen Thai Lai underlined Vietnam’s strong commitment at the second East Asia Climate Forum which began in the Republic of Korea on June 16.
Mr Lai noted that climate change has become a global issue which is associated with sustainable development of every country. It has so far impacted socio-economic development and poverty reduction efforts, as well as threatening food and energy security.
Since introducing its Doi Moi (Renewal) policy in 1996, he said, Vietnam has made a lot of achievements, including a relatively high economic growth and a significant reduction in the poverty rate. However, the country is facing many challenges from climate change relating to water resources and biodiversity. The Vietnamese government maintains that the country will develop a new model of growth which is more environmentally friendly.
Being aware of the serious consequences of climate change, Vietnam has approved a national target programme, which will assess the impact of climate change on every area in specific periods, and draw up feasible plans on climate change in the short- and medium term aimed at sustaining national growth. It will also develop a low carbon economy, and join international efforts to minimise the impact of climate change, while speeding up models of green growth.
He also confirmed that Vietnam’s green growth will include specific priority areas in conformity with national growth.
During a meeting with Mr Lai, former RoK Prime Minister Han Seung-soon praised Vietnam’s efforts in environmental protection, sustainable development research, and dealing with climate change. He expressed the RoK’s desire to boost cooperation with Vietnam in these areas.
