Vietnam Launches Maritime Diplomacy Project with US Support
A one-year program in Hanoi aims to train regional experts. It focuses on maritime governance and regional cooperation.
Key points
- The project is jointly run by Vietnam, Germany, and the US.
- It includes training, dialogue, and research over one year.
- The first training course involves nearly 50 regional participants.
A new research project on maritime diplomacy began in Hanoi on September 23. The initiative involves Vietnam, Germany, and the United States. Its goal is to improve regional maritime cooperation. The first training session started immediately after the launch.
The Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam leads the effort. The German foundation Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung supports it. The US Department of State also provides backing. According to VOV.VN, these partners work together on this one-year plan. It includes training, dialogue, and research components.
Project structure and goals
The project has three main thematic areas. These are marine environmental protection and maritime space awareness. It also focuses on maritime connectivity. The aim is to build expert capacity. It seeks to propose solutions for stronger regional cooperation.
Participants will form a network of experts. They will promote policy dialogue among countries. The project hopes to create practical cooperation ideas. These ideas should meet the needs of Vietnam and the region. It connects research, policy, and real-world practice.
Initial training and dialogue
The first activity is a two-day training course. Experts from India, South Korea, Israel, and the US teach. Nearly 50 participants from various sectors attend. They work in fields related to maritime affairs. The sessions cover seaport development and maritime transport.
The course also discusses subsea cable infrastructure. It looks at artificial intelligence in the maritime sector. Participants share experiences and discuss regional challenges. After the training, a closed-door dialogue will occur. Nominated researchers will join this ongoing discussion.
Regional security perspectives
US Ambassador Jennifer Wicks emphasized the need for stability. She noted that maritime security is crucial. Countries face challenges in managing their waters. These include transnational crime and illegal fishing. The project aims to help address these issues.
KAS Vietnam representative Lewe Paul highlighted the partnership. He said it opens a new chapter in cooperation. The goal is to manage differences peacefully. The project wants to enhance expert capacity. It seeks to translate dialogue into practical recommendations.
