Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh receiving Mr. Prasanna De Silva, CEO of the International Office of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

Since the 1980s, WWF has laid the foundation for conservation activities in Vietnam, especially in the protection of biodiversity and sustainable development. To date, WWF has partnered with MONRE on many key national projects, ranging from natural resource protection and combating plastic pollution to climate change programs. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh emphasized, "WWF is one of the most important international partners of MONRE in various fields of cooperation, including nature conservation, biodiversity, ocean plastic waste, and climate change response."

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh highly appreciated WWF's contributions to supporting Vietnam’s participation in international conferences such as COP28 on climate change in the UAE and COP15 on biodiversity in Canada. WWF has not only contributed to achievements in nature conservation but also provided expertise, financial, and organizational support for environmental protection projects.

Cooperation in biodiversity conservation and climate change

Mr. Prasanna De Silva reaffirmed that WWF would always be a "long-term friend" of Vietnam, working together in efforts to conserve nature and address environmental challenges

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh mentioned that Vietnam has been implementing many significant strategies related to climate change, including the hydrogen energy development strategy and the national action plan for transforming the food system. MONRE called on WWF to continue supporting efforts to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable areas such as the Mekong Delta.

In terms of biodiversity conservation, WWF has supported the development and implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy, especially by promoting international initiatives like "30 x 30," which aims to conserve 30% of the Earth's land and sea by 2030. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh expressed his hope that WWF will continue to accompany Vietnam in implementing pilot conservation models and supporting the development of conservation policies based on effective protected areas.

Addressing plastic waste and the circular economy

Deputy Misniter Le Cong Thanh giving present to Mr. Prasanna De Silva

One of the pressing issues today is tackling plastic pollution, especially ocean plastics. Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh highlighted that from January 1, 2025, the 2020 Law on Environmental Protection will officially take effect, requiring mandatory waste sorting at the source, marking the start of a series of measures for managing the lifecycle of plastic waste. He also expressed his desire for WWF to continue supporting Vietnam in finalizing policies and laws on the circular economy and plastic waste management.

In response, Mr. Prasanna De Silva reaffirmed that WWF would always be a "long-term friend" of Vietnam, working together in efforts to conserve nature and address environmental challenges. He also emphasized WWF's role in promoting Vietnam's participation in the Global Convention on Plastic Pollution. This convention is expected to soon become a legally binding document, providing a legal framework for countries to join in the fight against plastic pollution.

Prospects for sustainable cooperation

Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh taking photo with WWF's delegation

At the end of the meeting, Deputy Minister Le Cong Thanh expressed confidence that the partnership between MONRE and WWF would continue to grow strongly. With over 30 years of collaboration, both sides have achieved many notable successes in environmental protection, while also opening new doors for sustainable projects in the future.

The meeting was not only an opportunity to review cooperation results but also a chance for both parties to reaffirm their long-term commitment to protecting natural resources, responding to climate change, and creating a sustainable future for future generations.

Ngoc Huyen