Vietnam - Australia: Strengthening strategic partnership on climate change response and resource management
06/10/2024TN&MTOn October 4, 2024, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Do Duc Duy held a meeting with Australian Ambassador to Vietnam, Andrew Goledzinowski, at the Ministry's headquarters. The meeting marked a significant milestone in enhancing cooperation between the two nations in the fields of natural resources and environment, with a focus on climate change response, resource management, and sustainable development.
Minister Do Duc Duy held a meeting with Australian Ambassador to Vietnam, Andrew Goledzinowski
Cooperation on climate change and clean energy
During the meeting, both sides discussed the Joint Declaration between the Prime Ministers of Vietnam and Australia at COP26, emphasizing practical actions to combat climate change. According to Minister Do Duc Duy, this declaration not only contributes to the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 but also promotes sustainable development through international commitments such as the Paris Agreement on climate change and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Minister Do Duc Duy also expressed his gratitude for Australia’s timely assistance in recovering from the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi
Minister Do Duc Duy also highlighted that Australia’s support would accelerate Vietnam's transition to a low-carbon economy while maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental protection. Vietnam looks forward to Australia sharing its experience and providing technical assistance in greenhouse gas inventories and establishing technical standards for carbon credit projects.
Ambassador Goledzinowski reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to continued cooperation with Vietnam on climate change and clean energy. Both parties will also promote private investment in climate mitigation and adaptation projects, develop high-quality human resources, and enhance management capacity. Ambassador Goledzinowski stressed the need for more policies that encourage private sector participation in green development and energy transition.
Developing the carbon market and preparing for COP29
The two sides also focused on developing Vietnam's carbon market. Minister Do Duc Duy expressed his desire for Australia’s support in building a carbon credit project registration system and technical standards. He hoped this cooperation would facilitate the formation and operation of the carbon market, contributing to global carbon emission reduction efforts.
Additionally, both parties discussed preparations for COP29, where Vietnam is expected to present its progress in climate change response. Minister Đỗ Đức Duy affirmed Vietnam’s commitment to achieving the Paris Agreement targets and emphasized the importance of close collaboration with international partners, including Australia, to enhance climate resilience.
Cooperation in mineral resources and maritime affairs
The meeting also underscored the critical cooperation between the two countries in mineral resources. Australia had supported Vietnam in drafting its first Mineral Law in 1996. Vietnam is currently revising this law to sustainably manage its mineral resources. Minister Do Duc Duy expressed hope that Australia would continue to offer support by sharing expertise and providing specialists as well as sustainable exploration and mining technologies.
Ambassador Goledzinowski confirmed that Australia would assist Vietnam in drafting the new Geology and Minerals Law to attract high-quality investments, particularly from the private sector. Although Vietnam’s mining industry has great potential, it has not yet attracted sufficient international investors. Australia has shared much of its experience through training sessions, study visits, and technical exchanges, helping Vietnam improve its management capacity and legal framework to draw more investment.
Minister Do Duc Duy and Ambassador Andrew Goledzinowski reaffirmed their determination to promote bilateral cooperation
In the maritime sector, the two sides discussed marine data management and utilization, the development of a blue economy, ocean conservation, and marine pollution reduction. Ambassador Goledzinowski emphasized Australia’s willingness to support Vietnam in sustainable development projects, including offshore wind energy and marine conservation. Minister Duy requested Australia's support in enhancing disaster forecasting and warning capacity to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Minister Do Duc Duy also expressed his gratitude for Australia’s timely assistance in responding to and recovering from the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi. The AUD 3 million emergency aid provided Vietnam with additional resources to cope with the severe impacts of the disaster, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and solidarity between the two nations.
During the meeting, Minister Do Duc Duy and Ambassador Andrew Goledzinowski reaffirmed their determination to promote bilateral cooperation, particularly in climate change response, resource management, and sustainable development. Both sides agreed that government-level cooperation would facilitate the implementation of strategic projects, helping Vietnam and Australia achieve significant achievements in environmental protection and sustainable development in the future.
Ngoc Huyen