Strategic framework for long-term partnership

During the meeting, Minister Do Duc Duy highlighted the substantial progress in agricultural and environmental cooperation between Vietnam and France in recent years. The two countries have jointly implemented a range of meaningful initiatives, including sustainable and circular agriculture, climate adaptation, and macroeconomic research on the socio-economic impacts of climate change and energy transition. These achievements lay a solid foundation for future expansion of bilateral cooperation.

On May 21, Minister Do Duc Duy held a working session with French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet in Hanoi

A notable development is the ongoing discussion between the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam and the French Development Agency (AFD) toward signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2025–2030 period. The MoU will chart a new strategic course focused on smart agriculture, climate resilience, river and coastal protection, and water security—fields that are vital to Vietnam’s sustainable development amid intensifying climate risks.

Ambassador Olivier Brochet underscored the shared vision and development strategy between the two nations, particularly in climate action, energy transition, and high-tech agriculture. He expressed France’s desire to strengthen collaboration among corporations, enterprises, and specialized institutions from both sides. He also called for closer coordination in international forums to promote shared experiences, co-develop global initiatives, and reinforce mutual commitments to pressing global challenges.

Minister Do Duc Duy called on the French Government and AFD to continue supporting key programs, particularly the GEMMES Vietnam Project on climate and energy transition impacts.

On Vietnam’s part, Minister Do Duc Duy urged the French Government and AFD to maintain financial and technical support for flagship programs, especially the GEMMES Vietnam Project, which studies the macroeconomic and social impacts of climate change and energy transition. Expanding and implementing this research will provide Vietnam with robust, evidence-based policy frameworks to enhance national climate resilience and sustainability.

Fostering human capital and preserving agricultural heritage

Beyond policy and research, both parties acknowledged the critical importance of human resource development. Minister Do Duc Duy proposed enhanced French support in agricultural education, including the training of engineers and technical staff at college and university levels. Access to advanced agricultural training programs from France will significantly boost Vietnam’s human capital in the sector, aligning with the country’s transformation goals in the digital and green economy era.

With strong foundations and renewed commitments, Vietnam and France are poised to elevate their agricultural and environmental cooperation to new heights

Minister Do Duc Duy also emphasized the role of the French Agricultural Attaché as a key liaison to foster collaboration between Vietnamese universities and French training and research institutions. These partnerships could open up avenues for student exchanges, joint training programs, and capacity building in agricultural innovation.

A particularly meaningful initiative proposed by Vietnam was the joint development of research programs and projects aimed at preserving the agricultural heritage shared by the two nations. Minister Do Duc Duy noted that France has a long-standing history of supporting agricultural development in Vietnam, and that both countries should build on this legacy. Such efforts would not only celebrate historical ties but also create added cultural and economic value—especially through specialty agricultural products and rural tourism rooted in shared heritage.

With strong foundations and renewed commitments, Vietnam and France are poised to elevate their agricultural and environmental cooperation to new heights. Integrating research, training, and heritage conservation into a holistic framework will enhance Vietnam’s agricultural competitiveness and reinforce the bilateral partnership in addressing global sustainability challenges.

Ngoc Huyen