When asked about the agenda and goals of UNOC3 in a recent media interview ahead of the conference, Ambassador Dinh Toan Thang emphasized that this strategic international event plays a key role in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG-14) on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans. The conference will focus on two main themes: “Urgent action for the ocean” and “Conservation and sustainable ocean development,” with a view to speeding up progress on SDG-14.

Key agenda items include promoting commitments to reduce marine pollution, protect biodiversity, develop the blue economy, and enhance the resilience of coastal communities. The conference will also discuss financial mechanisms, science and technology, global partnerships, and increasing the role of developing countries in ocean governance. UNOC3 aims to create a platform for relevant parties to explore innovative, sustainable solutions for ocean protection.

Thang pointed out that the health of the ocean is currently in serious decline. Mobilizing efforts not only from governments but also from the scientific community, private sector, social organizations, and individuals is essential to achieve real change. He stressed that the conference’s theme serves as both a symbol and a clear, urgent call to action.

For the international community, UNOC3 represents a critical step to move from awareness to concrete action, turning commitments on paper into practical results. Rising ocean temperatures, accelerating acidification, and severe biodiversity loss are no longer distant scientific warnings but directly impact the daily lives of billions. Therefore, UNOC3 is a vital forum for countries to assess the situation, share experience, bolster cooperation, and launch practical initiatives to restore ocean health-the shared treasure of humanity.

Regarding the significance of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s participation, Ambassador Dinh Toan Thang said it demonstrates Vietnam’s proactive stance and commitment alongside the international community to tackle global issues.

This is consistent with the key directions of the Vietnamese Party and State on sustainable marine economic development.

 “This trip concretizes Vietnam’s foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, diversification, deep integration, while promoting multilateral diplomacy, and enhancing relations with important partners,” the Ambassador said.

He also highlighted Vietnam’s long-standing role as a responsible, active member of the international community, respecting international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).  The nation is proactive in ocean conservation and sustainable use of marine resources and ready to contribute to global efforts in this regard.

Participation in UNOC3 provides an opportunity for Vietnam to present achievements in carrying out SDG-14, exchange experience with the international community, and augment cooperation in science, technology, equipment, and finance.

On the bilateral level, this marks Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s second visit to France since 2021 and carries special significance following the upgrade of Vietnam-France relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in October 2024 during the visit of General Secretary and State President To Lam, and shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent visit to Vietnam in late May.

The Ambassador emphasized that this visit will deepen high-level contacts between Vietnam and France, thereby reaffirming and strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership. Exchanges during this time show the positive and dynamic development of bilateral relations.

He also noted that active participation in UNOC3 and related side events in Nice, France, and Monaco will continue to augment Vietnam’s cooperation with both France and Monaco in marine affairs.

With regard to Vietnam’s ocean protection policy, Thang affirmed that as a littoral country with a long coastline and rich marine resources, Vietnam prioritizes ocean protection and sustainable use in its national policies. The ocean is not only a habitat but also a key driver for sustainable national development.

These policies are built on a solid foundation and implemented comprehensively, demonstrating Vietnam’s responsibility toward the seas. Vietnam has established a comprehensive legal framework, notably the Vietnam Sustainable Marine Economic Development Strategy to 2030 with a vision to 2045, setting major directions to become a strong marine nation rich from the sea. Alongside are the Vietnam Law on the Sea and detailed guiding documents, creating a solid legal framework for managing, exploiting, and protecting the marine environment.

Vietnam strongly focuses on sustainable management and conservation of marine resources, including establishing and expanding marine protected areas and effectively protecting critical ecosystems such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. The country pays special attention to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing while promoting sustainable aquaculture and fisheries models.

The nation pledges to control marine pollution, especially marine plastic waste. It has launched many national action programs to address this issue and to manage pollution from land and sea activities. Additionally, it has actively implemented measures to respond to climate change and sea-level rise, while protecting vulnerable coastal areas.

Finally, the Ambassador said Vietnam is boosting the development of the blue economy, encouraging marine-friendly sectors such as ecotourism and marine renewable energy. The nation has actively participated in regional and global ocean forums and initiatives, thereby reaffirming its role as a responsible partner in international efforts.

“Vietnam advocates international cooperation based on respect for international law, especially UNCLOS, as the only effective way to tackle the global challenges oceans face,” he stressed.

The interview with Ambassador Dinh Toan Thang shows that Vietnam not only has concrete policies and actions for ocean protection but is also ready to actively contribute to global efforts, affirming its growing role on the international arena.

Vietnam’s voice at UN ocean conference carries great significance

The participation of a high-level Vietnamese delegation, led by PM Pham Minh Chinh, at the 3rd UN Ocean Conference underscores Vietnam’s strong commitment to tackling global challenges such as climate change, environmental pollution, and biodiversity conservation, said French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet.