Vietnam Strengthens International Cooperation for Marine Biodiversity Protection: Dialogue Held on BBNJ Agreement Implementation

The 15th Marine Dialogue, themed 'From Agreement to Action: Implementing the BBNJ Agreement for Equitable and Effective Ocean Governance,' was held in Hanoi on September 18. Jointly organized by the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, the East Sea Research Support Fund, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Foundation, and the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, the dialogue focused on translating commitments made under the BBNJ Agreement into concrete mechanisms, institutions, and actions at national, regional, and global levels. The agreement aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The dialogue featured three sessions discussing the alignment of the BBNJ Agreement with national laws and institutions, international cooperation within its framework, and support mechanisms for effective implementation. Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, Vice President of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, stated in her opening remarks that the BBNJ Agreement provides a comprehensive framework for protecting marine biodiversity in international waters. She emphasized that effective implementation requires starting at the national level, grounded in international cooperation and scientific-technological advancements. Australian Ambassador Gillian Bird praised the timely theme of the dialogue and affirmed Australia's commitment to supporting regional countries in their preparations for BBNJ Agreement implementation. She offered to share expertise on marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and ocean governance. This dialogue highlights Vietnam's active engagement in international efforts for marine environmental protection and its commitment to deepening cooperation for sustainable ocean governance. Under its one-party system, Vietnam prioritizes state-led environmental policy promotion, and participation in international frameworks can spur domestic legal reforms and technological development. In the context of complex regional maritime issues, such as those in the South China Sea, pursuing international cooperation on the shared challenge of marine environmental protection could also be seen as part of a broader diplomatic strategy concerning relations with China.