A strategy for sustainable exploitation and use of natural resources and protection of the marine environment by 2020 with a vision to 2030 was officially announced at a ceremony in Hanoi on April 2. Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha said that the plan, approved by Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung last year, will act as an important foundation for Vietnam to effectively utilize its rich marine resources and environment. Ha also called on ministries and international organizations to contribute opinions to help reach targets set in the strategy, so as to turn Vietnam into a country with a strong sea-based economy while preserving the environment. From now to 2020, Vietnam strives to provide more timely and trusted predictions about disasters and climate change, minimize the degradation of natural resources and contain the increase of environmental pollution in coastal areas. The strategy also aims to increase the capacity of adaptation to climate change in marine eco-systems, and strengthen the management of natural resources exploitation activities. (Vietnam News April 3)
