Enhancing collaboration on climate change and energy transition

The signing ceremony was led by Mr. Le Cong Thanh, Deputy Minister of MONRE of Vietnam, and Ms. Catherine West, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom. Both officials emphasized the critical importance of international cooperation in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and the promotion of sustainable energy transition in today’s interconnected world.

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh and Ms. Catherine West, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom, signing the MoU

The MoU goes beyond climate change, encompassing key areas such as just energy transition, biodiversity protection, and the development of carbon markets. Both Vietnam and the UK are committed to working closely to advance environmental protection and foster a green economy.

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh noted that this agreement would yield tangible benefits for Vietnam by expediting its energy transition, safeguarding natural resources, and supporting the country's compliance with international commitments, including the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The UK: A committed partner for Vietnam

Ms. Catherine West affirmed the UK’s position as a strategic partner, pledging ongoing support for Vietnam in developing clean energy, green finance, and digital transformation across the transport and energy sectors. As a co-chair of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), the UK is dedicated to providing both technical and financial assistance to facilitate Vietnam’s sustainable development, environmental protection, and emission reduction efforts.

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh believes the MoU will bring tangible benefits to both nations

In addition to energy issues, Ms. Catherine West highlighted the UK’s focus on sustainable agriculture, particularly in the Mekong Delta region, which is acutely impacted by climate change. The UK is committed to aiding Vietnam in biodiversity conservation, reducing natural fishing, and promoting sustainable aquaculture.

Future collaborative initiatives will concentrate on sustainable natural resource management, wildlife protection, and advancing a circular economy through recycling and waste reduction strategies. These efforts aim not only to bolster Vietnam's capacity to tackle climate change but also to contribute positively to the nation’s sustainable development agenda.

Reaffirming strong commitment to collaboration

The signing of the MoU between MONRE of Vietnam and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office underscores a robust commitment to environmental protection and climate change mitigation, highlighting the significance of partnerships in promoting a sustainable future. The UK’s support will assist Vietnam in transitioning to a greener economy and contribute to the global goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

The MoU will also contribute to global goals of Net-Zero emissions and the fulfillment of international commitments such as the Paris Agreement and the sustainable development goals

During the meeting with Ms. Catherine West and her delegation, Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh expressed sincere gratitude for the timely assistance from the UK Government in addressing natural disasters in Vietnam. He specifically noted that the emergency aid of £1 million from the UK Government has been instrumental in helping Vietnam recover from the impacts of Typhoon Yagi in northern provinces and the severe flooding in central Vietnam. This underscores the solidarity and effective collaboration between the two nations.

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh also expressed hope that the UK would continue to support Vietnam in areas such as climate change and meteorology, while reiterating the importance of cooperation to achieve Net-Zero emissions by 2050.

As the world confronts serious challenges posed by climate change, the strengthened cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the UK is poised to benefit both countries and contribute significantly to global efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.

Ngoc Huyen