At the meeting, H.E. Ambassador Shawn Steil kindly informed that Canada has made positive contribution to local development in culture, education, training, gender equality, climate change adaptation, environmental protection and heritage conservation.

The Canadian ambassador expressed his empathy for locals who suffered from the flood. According to H.E. Ambassador Shawn Steil, Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives  recently approved a project to be jointly carried out by Rural Development Center, Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry to help habitants affected by the recent floods.

In addition to ongoing projects, Mr. Shawn Steil informed that Canadian government make commitment to sponsor “Cong dong ven bien thong minh thich ung bien doi khi hau tai Vietnam” (Smart coastal communities adapting to climate change in Vietnam) project. It  is expected to enhance the resilience of coastal vulnerable communities; improve marine and coastal biodiversity; improve livelihood and poverty alleviation through eco-system recovery, etc. Therefore, H.E. Ambassador Shawn Steil was looking forward to observing support and approval from the provincial leader in the coming time.

Chairman Nguyen Van Phuong and Canadian Ambassador Shawn Steil discuss at the meeting

Speaking at the meeting, Chairman Nguyen Van Phuong welcomed Canadian ambassador Shawn Steil and delegates to Thua Thien Hue province. The provincial leader extended sincere thank to Canadian government for supporting the province via projects and programs, particularly the timely support given to local residents in recent flood.

With a view to accelerate cooperative relation between Thua Thien Hue and Canada, Chairman hoped that H.E. Ambassador Shawn Steil would be concerned, call for Canadian investors; attract Canadian visitors to Hue; promote traditional culture and art exchange between the two countries; export local key products.

Besides, Chairman expected Canadian government to organize cooperation programs and provide expertise support in heritage conservation, science research, archeology, museum, exhibition, workshop and services to promote heritage values. Furthermore, the leader of Thua Thien Hue province hoped that Canada will cooperate in cultural exchange, especially introduce Canadian art troupes to Hue Festival seasons so that locals would have a chance to communicate and understand more about Canadian culture and art.