US, Vietnam increase environment cooperation
(VOVWORLD) - The US will boost cooperation with Vietnam to address global health security and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, wildlife trafficking, air quality, science and technology, environmental protection in the East Sea (also known as the South China Sea), and management of the Mekong River, according to a US State Department Statement.
An online meeting took place Monday between Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Jonathan Moore and Vietnam’s Assistant Foreign Minister Nguyen Van Thao.
The US State Department said the US acknowledges Vietnam’s efforts to elevate the Mekong sub-region within ASEAN and agrees that a prosperous and healthy Mekong region is fundamental to ASEAN’s overall prosperity.
The US commends Vietnam on its openness to increasing data sharing on environmental issues and will continue to support Vietnam’s efforts to improve air quality, manage water resources, and control marine debris by sharing satellite and remote sensing data.