-    Excellency, Mr. Nguyen Quoc Tri, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment,
-    Excellency, Mr. Nguyen Cao Son, Vice Chairman of Ninh Binh Provincial People’s Committee
-    Distinguished guests from Ministries, Provinces, Protected Areas and Communities,
-    Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honor for me to represent the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) at today’s celebration of the International Day for Biodiversity, held under the inspiring theme: “Living in Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.” Today also marks the first celebration of the occasion in Vietnam under the united leadership of the new Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. 

On behalf of UNDP, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, the People’s Committee of Ninh Bình Province, Cuc Phuong National Park, and GIZ for organizing this important event.

Vietnam’s Rich Biodiversity – A Global Treasure Under Threat
Vietnam is globally recognized for its rich biodiversity. Yet, this natural wealth is under increasing pressure. Recent studies show that over one-third of Vietnam’s mammal species are at risk of extinction. This is not just a national concern—it reflects a global crisis. The loss of biodiversity threatens the very foundation of our economies, our food security, and our health.

From Global Commitments to National Actions
The adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) marked a turning point in our collective efforts. With 23 ambitious targets to be achieved by 2030, including protecting 30% of land and sea areas and restoring degraded ecosystems, the GBF provides a clear vision and roadmap.

At the national level, the targets of the NBSAP on expanding marine protected areas and restoring degraded ecosystems are just two examples of how Vietnam is translating international commitments into national actions.

Nature as a Pillar of Sustainable Development
The outdated notion that conservation and development are mutually exclusive must be discarded as obsolete. For now, biodiversity must be seen not as a constraint, but as a critical asset for sustainable development. Integrating biodiversity into economic and sectoral planning including infrastructure development, energy transition, etc. is essential. When nature is valued and protected from the outset, we reduce future risks and costs.

UNDP is committed to supporting Vietnam in building a robust system to assess and monitor ecosystem services, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of natural capital.

Innovative Finance and Investments for Conservation
In a world of limited resources, innovative and sustainable financing is key to addressing environmental and biodiversity conservation challenges. Instruments such as sustainable nature-based tourism in Protected Areas, green credit, green bonds, payments for ecosystem services for marine and wetland ecosystems, and carbon finance are powerful tools to mobilize private sector investment in conservation. However, their effectiveness hinges on a strong enabling environment shaped by government leadership. By developing clear, forward-looking policies and regulatory frameworks, governments can create the conditions necessary for sustainable finance to thrive. At the same time, the private sector plays a critical role in practicing sustainability (ESG) principles, ensuring that investments not only generate financial returns but also deliver measurable environmental and social benefits. Together, public policy and private sector commitment form the foundation of a resilient and sustainable future.

Meanwhile, ODA remains an important source for financial and technical support, especially in helping Vietnam meet international commitments in climate change response and nature conservation. Therefore, joining the voice of many different development partners, I would like to take this occasion to urge the Government in accelerating the approval and implementation of many long-delayed ODA projects to make the best use of this valuable funding source in the coming years for development and the environment.

Empowering Communities and Honoring Indigenous Knowledge
Last but certainly not least, local communities, especially women, youth, and ethnic minorities, are not only the most affected by biodiversity loss—they can also be its most effective stewards. By integrating indigenous knowledge and promoting co-management models, we can ensure that conservation efforts are inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.

A Call to Collective Action
As we celebrate this day, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to protecting the planet’s biodiversity. Let us work together—government, private sector, communities, civil society, and international partners—to build a future where people and nature thrive together.
UNDP stands ready to continue supporting Vietnam in this journey—through policy advice, technical assistance, and partnerships that drive real impact.

Together, we hope to turn the tide on biodiversity loss and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Thank you. Xin Cam On!