• Nation goes int'l to develop modern urban areas

• Green economy presents challenges to Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Thuy, a senior official from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (PMI), made this statement at a Rio+20 review conference in Hanoi on July 11.

Ms Thuy said that top priority will be given to training human resources, developing a green economy, reforming State management, and improving institutions to ensure sustainable socio-economic growth.

She emphasized the need to urge business circles, socio-political organizations, occupational associations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to get involved in working towards the sustainable development goals. She also said it is necessary to expand external relations and develop partnerships with other countries to promote the cause.

Other delegates at the conference highlighted Vietnam’s achievements in saving energy, the effective use of natural resources, poverty reduction, rural development, and climate change adaptation. This progress, which has been applauded by the international community, has actively contributed to achieving the sustainable development goals, they added.