National Conference on Natural Disaster Prevention and Control Search and Rescue in 2024

• Excellency Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Steering Committee on Natural Disaster Prevention and Control (NDPC), Mr. Tran Luu Quang; 
• Excellency Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and Deputy Chairman of NDPC, Mr. Le Minh Hoan; 
• Representatives from Ministries, provincial People’s Committees; 
• Colleagues from development partners and international organizations, 
• Distinguished guests

It is my honor to address you today at the National Conference on Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue in 2024. Our gathering today comes at a critical juncture.

Just over half a year ago, the Ha Long Ministerial Statement on the Strengthening of ASEAN Anticipatory Actions in Disaster Management was adopted, signaling a collective commitment to proactive measures in mitigating the impact of disasters.

Reflecting on this priority, the UN supported Viet Nam in translating these ambitious commitments into action. 

The effectiveness of anticipatory action has already been tested by the UN in a number of extreme events, including Typhoon Noru in Thua Thien Hue and Quang Tri in 2022, a severe flood in Thua Thien Hue in 2023, and the ongoing drought and saline intrusion in Ca Mau. The anticipatory actions improved the food security of and reduced negative coping mechanisms employed by more than 2,000 vulnerable households. In terms of return on investment of anticipatory action; for every 1 USD spent on anticipatory action, the return on investments yields approximately 4.6 USD in the long term (Source: FAO Impact of Anticipatory Action[1] report).

As we convene today, I am encouraged by the progress we have made together. I commend the GoV for its housing support program, effectively scaling up coastal vulnerabilities, and I applaud our partnerships in bolstering early warning systems. I also highlight the Disaster Risk Reduction Partnership (DRRP). As the newly appointed co-chair of the DRRP, I am committed to advancing our shared agenda, guided by the priorities outlined in our comprehensive 5-year work plan. 

Our achievements result from the strong and long-standing partnership between the Vietnamese Government, especially the MARD and VDDMA with the development. 

However, much work remains to be done.

We recognize that proactive measures require sustainable support. Financing and institutionalization of anticipatory action is a key priority. 

Equally important is the role of data in informing anticipatory action. We need robust and granular disaster information data to capture those most at risk, and the analytical capacity to optimize use of data. 

Community-based disaster risk management remains central. Together, we must prioritize community engagement to mitigate risks on the most vulnerable, including women and children. 

We also need specific policies to encourage private sector participation and investment in disaster insurance and early warning stations.  At the same time, implementing integrated solutions to build resilience for vulnerable communities are crucial steps. For example, through nature-based solutions such as mangrove forests and disaster-resilient housing.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to anticipatory action and disaster risk reduction. By working together, we can build a safer, more resilient future for all. 

Thank you! Xin cảm ơn!

[1] https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/6c91defb-b837-45b9-9d1b-dd4e23d1fd95/content