As many as 100 climate change negotiators from ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, gathered at a meeting in Hanoi Oct 2 to discuss ways to enhance cooperation in combating climate change in the years to come. The event, held by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the British Embassy in Vietnam, aims to improve capacity in this field as the country is listed among the five hardest-hit by climate change. Clair Etches, a representative of the British Embassy in Vietnam, noted the seminar will help Vietnam and other ASEAN member countries gain success in international negotiations on climate change. Bakhodir Burkhanov, UNDP Deputy Country Director in Vietnam, affirmed its commitment to support the parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to reach a joint agreement in 2015. Participants learnt about international policies on climate change adaptation and negotiation strategies of the UNFCCC as well as related issues and ways to reach a new joint agreement by 2015. Climate change is estimated to cost Vietnam $15 billion each year, accounting for 5% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). (Ha Noi Moi Oct 3 p8, Quan Doi Nhan Dan Oct 2)
