Addressing the function, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan stressed that climate change is a global challenge, and Vietnam is one of the countries in the world that is already suffering the most from the problem.

As ASEAN Chair, Vietnam has given the issue top priority on its working agenda and proposed establishing the East Asia forum on climate change, he said.

Participants in the four-day workshop, jointly held by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Hanoi-based Vietnam National University, discussed urgent issues arising from the impact of climate change and response measures to reduce risks.

They will also prepare for an official IPCC 2010 report, which will serve as a reference for policy makers, investors and donors.