Opening a seminar on global trends in green finance, sustainable agriculture, and Vietnam’s policy framework on November 28, Han highlighted that Vietnam is actively implementing commitments on emissions reduction, circular economy, and sustainable agriculture under the COP26 framework. He noted that increasing environmental standards, traceability requirements, and emissions assessments in major markets present both challenges and opportunities for Vietnamese localities to enhance production capacity and integrate more deeply into global value chains.

The seminar attracted international experts from major organisations including the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Economic Forum (WEF), and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), alongside representatives of Switzerland’s financial community. On the Vietnamese side, leaders from Nghe An, Hai Phong, Lam Dong, Dien Bien, Hue and Quang Ninh provinces participated.

International speakers analysed global trade prospects, green finance trends, emerging sustainability certification requirements, financing experience for regenerative economies, and climate change impacts on developing economies, offering practical recommendations for Vietnam.

WTO representatives emphasised the global trend of “greening” trade and the importance of supply chain data transparency in agriculture. OECD experts noted Vietnam could attract green investment by strengthening ESG standards (Environmental, Social, Governance) and improving sustainability reporting mechanisms. WEF specialists highlighted climate change impacts on food security and recommended Vietnam expand climate-adaptive production models, enhance disaster resilience, and innovate water resource governance.

FSC representatives stressed that sustainable forest certification is key for Vietnamese timber products to access high-quality markets. Swiss impact investment experts shared experience mobilising private capital for regenerative economy and sustainable agriculture projects, offering practical guidance for Vietnamese localities in project design and investor engagement.

Speaking at the discussion, Phung Thanh Vinh, Vice Chairman of Nghe An province, noted that the event provided practical insights for the province and other Vietnamese localities on global trends in green finance and sustainable agriculture, and expressed hope for concrete cooperation models aligned with local advantages and green development goals.

Luong Thi Kiem, Deputy Director of the Hai Phong Department of Agriculture and Environment, highlighted the city’s interest in expanding international cooperation on green standards, environmental technology, traceability, and low-emission production models to meet growing domestic and international market demands.

Phan Quoc Son, representing Hue city, noted that the city is facing severe impacts from natural disasters and floods, clear consequences of climate change, and is keen to strengthen international cooperation in climate risk management, disaster recovery, and sustainable livelihoods for residents.

Vietnamese localities also shared priorities in sustainable agriculture, environmental management, traceability data improvement, and compliance with green trade standards. Many emphasised the urgent need for climate-adaptive agriculture, particularly amid increasing floods and natural disasters, and expressed interest in expanding international cooperation to enhance capacity and access advanced technologies. Several localities recommended a more coordinated policy framework to promote green agriculture and called for continued international support in technology transfer and knowledge sharing to meet global green standards.

Participants agreed that the seminar served as a valuable forum for localities to access international information, identify partners, and exchange experiences in green transformation. Many international organisations and Swiss companies expressed interest in continuing cooperation with Vietnamese localities on specific opportunities following the seminar.

On the sidelines of the event, the Permanent Mission organised an exhibition space showcasing information and publications on the economic potential, key sectors, and investment opportunities of Vietnamese localities.

Geneva missions' gathering marks 60th anniversary of Vietnam-Laos ties

The Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the UN, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and other international organisations on August 16 hosted a get-together with their Lao counterparts in Geneva to mark the 60th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties (September 5, 1962 – 2022).