The Netherlands is ready to share its experience in countering severe saltwater intrusion with Vietnam in general and Ho Chi Minh City in particular, Dutch Ambassador Nienke Trooster said.

Chairman Nguyen Thanh Phong (R) and Dutch Ambassador Nienke Trooster (Photo: voh.com.vn)

The ambassador made the promise at a meeting on February 29 with Chairman of the city’s People’s Committee Nguyen Thanh Phong, when the official voiced concern about challenges posed by climate change and salinity intrusion to Vietnam.

Ambassador Trooster said the Netherlands and Vietnam have made intensive cooperation in climate change prevention, particularly after they set up a strategic partnership on climate change adaptation and water management in 2010.

On the foundation of the partnership, the two countries can push ahead cooperation in that field, she added.

Recent reports show that salt water has intruded deep into the Mekong Delta and damaged vast areas of rice crop. Water sources for production and daily activities in HCM City are also being affected by rising salinity.

At the meeting, both sides also expressed their hope that beyond climate change adaptation, HCM City and Dutch localities will strengthen economic, educational and tourism ties in the near future.

VNA