President Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosts US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate
VOV.VN - President Nguyen Xuan Phuc glowingly praised US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry for his efforts aimed at promoting co-operation between the two countries over recent times, especially in terms of the joint response to climate change.
At a reception held for the guest on February 23 in Hanoi, the Vietnamese State leader asked him to work to continue the support of the US Government to Vietnam in this important field.
PM Phuc went on to hail the significant outcomes of the recent visits made to Vietnam by US leaders, including the trip made by Vice President Kamala Harris in August, 2021, which served to enhance both sides’ comprehensive partnership.
Kerry noted that the joint comprehensive partnership has become increasingly substantive and fruitful, although there remains plenty of room to boost co-operation, including in climate change response. Indeed, the two countries will increase co-operation to prepare for the UN Climate Change Conference 2022 (COP 27).
The US is capable of helping the nation during its transition to clean energy, especially solar energy, with the superpower having many ideas, financial sources, and plenty of manpower to help the country with the climate change issue, he added.
The US can also assist the nation in implementing digital transformation in order to serve greater socio-economic development, according to the Special Envoy.
Echoing Kerry’s views, particularly regarding climate change adaptation, President Phuc stressed that the country is working hard on the issue and has decided to put an end to coal-fired power generation by 2050.
As the nation requires not only funding, but also technology and manpower to develop wind, solar, and hydro power projects, it hopes for continued US assistance, the President said.
He noted that the country is facing the serious range of impacts caused by rising sea levels, with President Phuc asking the US to pay more attention to the lower Mekong River, which is the region most vulnerable to this problem.
Vietnam remains appreciative of the aid and commitments made by the US Government, including Kerry himself, to the settlement of the aftermath of previous conflicts. It therefore hopes that the US side will increase the budget for handling Agent Orange/dioxin consequences, clearing unexploded ordnance, supporting the disabled, and other related issues.
The nation has pledged to move forward with strong co-operation in the humanitarian spirit to search for the remains of US servicemen missing in action.
Vietnam welcomes the US’ increased co-operation in the Asia-Pacific region, thereby making greater contributions to regional peace, stability, co-operation, and development.
He also suggested that Kerry continue promoting the US Government’s attention, resources, and finance for the collaboration in education and training with Vietnam, along with the creation of favourable conditions for local students in the US.
In line with this, President Phuc suggested the US continue investing in the Fulbright University Vietnam, which is also the “brainchild” of Kerry.