>>Vietnam seriously affected by natural disasters

The workshop, which was held in the framework of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), was sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). It is aimed at implementing Vietnam’s initiative and expertise in preventing and dealing with natural calamities.

Speaking at the event, MARD Deputy Minister Dao Xuan Hoc emphasized how Vietnam is seriously affected by climate change. He also said that the workshop is a good opportunity for Vietnamese authorities, scientists, and experts to learn from the experience of international organisations and economies in the APEC region.

This is one of APEC’s most important events held by Vietnam in 2011, said a MOFA representative, adding that it indicates Vietnam’s continued contribution to ensuring human safety.

Ambassador Muhamad Noor Yacob, Executive Director of APEC Secretariat, appreciated Vietnam’s initiative holding the conference and said that dealing with natural disasters is among APEC’s top priorities.

APEC will continue its support for cooperative projects to build a higher capacity in order to cope with natural disasters, he said.

During the two-day event, participants will exchange experiences on forecasting, preventing, and recovering from floods as well as discuss ways to enhance cooperation between APEC member countries.

They will also agree to promote the cooperation between APEC and other related international organisations.