Viet Nam to host UNESCO conference on geoparks in Asia-Pacific region

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ha Kim Ngoc told reporters on August 22 that under the theme: "Local Communities and Sustainable Development in Geopark Region", the conference targets to share and exchange experiences, effective models, and useful solutions in the development and management of geoparks according to UNESCO's standard among members of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network in the Asia-Pacific region.

The event aims to raise awareness and responsibility among all levels of government, sectors, and the public in preserving and promoting various types of heritage in favor of sustainable tourism development.

As scheduled, the administration of Cao Bang will host a wide range of activities during the conference, including sessions of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council and the 20th anniversary celebration of the Global Geoparks Network.

Cooperative agreements among geoparks in the global UNESCO network of the Asia-Pacific region are expected to be signed during the conference.

Non Nuoc Cao Bang in the northern province of Cao Bang was recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2018. With a highland tropical monsoon climate and two distinct wet and dry seasons, the geopark boasts a rich biodiversity. It covers nearly 3,700sq.km and is home to nine ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Nung, Mong, Dao, and San Chay people.

Viet Nam is currently home to three geoparks, namely Dong Van Karst Plateau in Ha Giang province and Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark in Cao Bang province, both in the north of Viet Nam, and Dak Nong Geopark in the Central Highlands province of the same name.

These geoparks received official recognition by UNESCO in 2010, 2018, and 2020, respectively./.