Vietnam's coastal and marine economy contributes about 22-30% of the national GDP, according to the World Bank. (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

The planning aims to turn Vietnam into a strong maritime nation, enriching from the sea, developing sustainably and prosperously, with security, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Tran Hong Ha said at a workshop in Hanoi on Wednesday.

Vietnam will take greater responsibilities for global and regional issues in the seas and oceans and enhance its role and position in the region and in the international arena.

Minister Ha underscored the importance of a consistent viewpoint and methodology and applying scientific and technological advances.

The planning should update practical requirements such as Vietnam's commitments at COP26 on environmental issues, and scenarios on climate change, security and defense.

The planning will act as the foundation for managing the exploitation and use of natural resources, protecting the environment, conserving marine ecosystems, ensuring national defense and security and sovereignty over seas and islands through marine space use, the formation of strong marine economic sectors towards creating livelihoods for people and realizing the goal of turning Vietnam into a sea-based strong nation.