Cooperation in marine science drives green economic growth

As part of the 17th International Scientific Conference on the East Sea recently held in Da Nang City, the Viet Nam Agency of Seas and Islands (Ministry of Agriculture and Environment), the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the People’s Committee of Da Nang City jointly organized the national conference “Scientific and technological cooperation: A driving force for sustainable blue growth.” The conference garnered significant attention from scientists, policymakers, and businesses worldwide. The event aimed to strengthen knowledge exchange, share experiences, and promote international cooperation in marine science and technology for sustainable development.

In the plenary session, Director General Nguyen Duc Toan presented a paper titled “Viet Nam’s marine strategy in the new era – From policy to action: Integrated resource management and green solutions for sustainable development.” Mr. Toan emphasized that integrated ocean management is not merely a technical tool serving a coordinating role but a strategic pillar that enables efficient utilization of marine economic potential, environmental protection, and the affirmation of Viet Nam’s position as a responsible maritime nation.

He also pointed out that transitioning to an integrated, data-driven, and technology-based ocean management model would help optimize resources while minimizing conflicts in the use and exploitation of marine resources. Viet Nam is gradually completing its digital database on marine resources and the environment, connecting information across ministries, sectors, and localities to support faster and more accurate decision-making. This forms the foundation for building an intelligent ocean governance system that supports both economic development and environmental conservation.

“Integrated management is the ‘key’ to turning the vast potential of the sea into a driving force for national development, ensuring security, defense, and progress toward green and sustainable growth,” Mr. Toan stated.

According to him, Viet Nam’s coastline stretches over 3,260 kilometers, with an exclusive economic zone exceeding 1 million square kilometers and a rich, diverse ecosystem. If managed effectively, the sea will not only provide livelihoods but also serve as a new development space for renewable energy, marine transportation, ecotourism, and scientific research. This requires close coordination between the State, the business community, scientists, and coastal residents.

In the technical session, delegates engaged in lively discussions on three main topics: international experiences in developing marine science, technology, and sustainable marine industries; strengthening marine science and technology cooperation and sustainable blue economy development – challenges for Viet Nam; and technology diplomacy contributing to sustainable ocean development.

Experts from Japan, Norway, and Australia shared experiences in marine data management, the integration of biotechnology in fisheries development, and the application of artificial intelligence in monitoring marine resources. Many participants suggested that Vietnam should establish interregional marine research centers capable of connecting enterprises with research institutes, universities, and government agencies to foster an innovation ecosystem in the marine sector.

The discussion session focused on strengthening the link between marine science and technology cooperation and sustainable blue economy development, based on the effective implementation of key Party resolutions such as: Resolution No. 36-NQ/TW on the Strategy for Sustainable Development of Vietnam’s Marine Economy to 2030, Vision to 2045; Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation; and Resolution No. 59-NQ/TW on international economic integration.

Delegates also analyzed the opportunities and challenges faced by Vietnamese enterprises in finance, energy, and technology when participating in the sustainable marine economy value chain.

Alongside opportunities, many experts warned of risks related to outdated technologies, a shortage of skilled human resources, and limitations in knowledge transfer. Therefore, developing a high-quality marine workforce proficient in technology and foreign languages is considered a crucial factor in helping Vietnam align with global blue economy trends.

In his closing remarks, Director General Nguyen Duc Toan expressed hope for greater support from international organizations, partnership with enterprises, and engagement of local communities in the near future. He stressed that raising public awareness of sustainable ocean development, achieving strategic consensus among stakeholders, and integrating policy, technology, and communication within a unified governance framework will help build an effective multilateral cooperation model that contributes meaningfully to Viet Nam's goal of a green and sustainable future.