Sat. Dec 28th, 2024

The expert group on Mekong Delta studies debut (Photo: VNA)

Ben Tre (VNA) – A group
of experts on Mekong Delta studies was introduced in Ben Tre province on
October 25, as part of the third Mekong Connect 2017 economic forum.

According to Nguyen Huu Lap, Vice
Chairman of the Ben Tre People’s Committee, they are experienced scientists,
who have deep knowledge of the region, particularly An Giang, Ben Tre, Can Tho
and Dong Thap. Their research areas range from public policies, regional
connectivity, and sustainable rural development to management of natural
resources and livelihoods. They are expected to give recommendations to boost the
region’s growth.

At the event, the experts discussed
regional connectivity, focusing on resources and environmental issues,
globalisation, smart agriculture, and start-ups.

Dr Vu Thanh Tu Anh, director of
research at the Fulbright Economics Teaching Program in Ho Chi Minh City and
head of the Mekong Delta expert group, said the region’s economic growth is
lagging behind compared to other regions in Vietnam due to limited resources
and weak links among its provinces and cities.

Nguyen Huu Thien, an independent
researcher on climate change and the Mekong River, noted the region is one of
three deltas most affected by climate change in the world.

He said sand mining has triggered
bank and coastal erosions, while well-digging has contributed to land
subsidence, necessitating fines for illegal sand and groundwater exploitation.

The third Mekong Connect 2017, themed
“Developing local resources in association with technology strength”, convened
in Ben Tre on October 26. It was attended by 500 businessmen and more than 100
experts.-VNA

By vivian