Established to preserve coastal estuarine wetlands, Xuan Thuy serves as the core zone of the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve and was Vietnam’s first Ramsar site. The park is home to rich biodiversity, including hundreds of waterbird species, many of which are rare, endangered, and of global conservation importance.

Strategically located along the East Asia–Australasian Flyway, one of the world’s most important migratory bird routes, the park plays a vital role not only for Vietnam but also within regional and global biodiversity conservation networks.

In recent years, with strong support from government authorities, local people, and international organisations, conservation efforts at Xuan Thuy have achieved significant progress. Mangrove ecosystems have been gradually restored, biodiversity has been effectively protected, and local livelihoods in buffer zones have improved through sustainable, eco-friendly practices.

Speaking at the ceremony, Tran Anh Dung, vice chairman of the Ninh Binh provincial administration, emphasised that in the context of climate change and increasing environmental pressures, the ASEAN Heritage Park designation represents well-deserved recognition of long-term conservation efforts.

The title enhances the park’s international profile while contributing to Vietnam’s standing on the global biodiversity map, he said.

Looking ahead, he said, Ninh Binh will continue to strengthen forest protection, conserve ecosystems and endangered species, and improve management and monitoring. Conservation initiatives will be closely linked with sustainable livelihood development and raising public awareness of environmental protection.

The ASEAN Heritage Park status opens up new opportunities, and places greater responsibility on preserving and promoting the natural values of Xuan Thuy National Park for future generations.

Con Dao National Park gets IUCN Green List recognition

Con Dao National Park in Ho Chi Minh City has officially been awarded the prestigious IUCN Green List certification, becoming Vietnam’s third and the world’s 101st protected area to receive the global recognition for effective and equitable conservation management.