At the meeting, Mr. Quan stressed that HCMC always gives prominence to the program of “HCMC moving towards sea with climate change adaptation”. Departments, agencies in HCMC have been actively implementing projects to complete infrastructure system, dykes as well as adaption solutions.

Mr. Quan said that co-operation programs between HCMC and Rotterdam have been step by step carried out with high efficiency. It has created conditions for both sides to continue to implement other co-operation programs in the coming time. He added that experience of Rotterdam is very useful for HCMC, it supports the city to find out solutions to cope with negative impacts of climate change in low lying areas, helps HCMC   develops its port and expands towards the sea and better adapt to climate change.
Mr.  Ahmed Aboutaleb said that Rotterdam is willing to connect Dutch experts with those in HCMC to develop projects, working out ideas of effective implementation and to attract investment funds to HCMC.

At the meting, Mr. Quan and Mr.  Ahmed Aboutaleb signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on climate change co-operation in the period of 2015-2018.

 According to the MOU, both sides will share experiences related to application of climate change adaptation solutions. Rotterdam will share its experience in development a climate adaptation strategy including evaluation on vulnerability of important infrastructures.

Besides, both cities will further strengthen contacts and direct co-operation between departments, agencies, institutions, etc.