The conference aimed to urge authorities and international organizations to share experience on adaptation and response to climate change in tourism activities.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms. Dang Thi Bich Lien emphasized the important role of tourism sector in the country’s economic growth. By 2020, tourism sector strives to develop as a spearhead economic sector, contributing 10% of the GDP, generating more jobs and improving livelihood. To reach this goal, Viet Nam has released policies to develop tourism sustainably, raise awareness of environmental protection for communities and visitors.

In Viet Nam, climate change has direct impacts on almost sectors as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, trade, etc, particularly, heritage sites and coastal areas.

Deputy Minister Dang Thi Bich Lien spoke at the conference

Deputy Minister Dang Thi Bich Lien also appreciated the initiative of organizing the conference which helped enhance understanding of the connection between tourism and climate change and collect experience from experts to reduce impacts of climate change to tourism development.  

According to Mr. Bruno Angelet - Head of EU Delegation to Viet Nam, climate change is a critical issue for Viet Nam. The EU-funded ESRT Program with its technical assistance has contributed to raising awareness not only of environmental issues, but also of destination management.

ITDR and ISPONRE signed a Memorandum of Understanding on tourism field and climate change

In the frame work of the conference, Institute for Tourism Development Research (ITDR under the VNAT) and Institute of Strategy and Policy on Natural Resources and Environment (ISPONRE under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on tourism field and climate change. The two sides aimed to establish platform for coordinated action for the purpose of sustainable tourism development and effective response to climate change in Viet Nam.

Thanh Tam; Photo: Thu Thuy