Between November 30 and December 12, 2023, the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Dubai. This annual gathering serves as a platform for the global community to deliberate on strategies to address climate change. Notably, the focus on agriculture and food systems took center stage during this year's proceedings.

In line with this theme, the side event titled “Nature-based solutions (NbS): Achieving climate targets and sustainable agriculture in Vietnam” was organized at the Vietnam pavilion by GIZ on 10th December, 2023. The event welcomed around 30 individuals representing various countries, organizations, and media outlets.

The Chair of the Event is Ms. Vera Scholz, Head of Division Thematic Areas and Services, Portfolio Development, Department Asia, Pacific Islands, Latin America, Caribbean, GIZ. Ms. Vu Thi Bich Hop, Executive Director of Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (SRD) moderated a panel discussion with Dr. Tran Dai Nghia (IPSARD); Dr. Fergus Sinclair (ICRAF); Ms. Stephanie Heiland (GIZ) and Ms. Imelda Bacudo, Senior Advisor, Food Systems, COP28 Presidency of the UAE.

The primary objective of this thematic dialogue was to disseminate information and encourage the exchange of ideas concerning nature-based solutions within Vietnam's agricultural sector. The session involved the sharing of best practices that integrate the principles of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA), aiming to support Vietnam's ambitious goals in climate mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity. The dialogue delved into a discussion on the opportunities, challenges, and potential pathways for promoting NbS, catering to government officials, development partners, research organizations, and other pertinent stakeholders both within Vietnam and globally.

Accordingly, Ms. Hop introduced the thematic discussion to the attendees and moderated the panel discussion. Each panelist contributed their perspectives, engaging in a discussion about the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing nature-based solutions to meet climate and biodiversity targets, as well as fostering sustainable development in the agricultural sector. By bringing together key stakeholders and showcasing best practices, the event has set the stage for a transformative dialogue that could redefine the future of agriculture in Vietnam and beyond. As the country strives to meet its climate and biodiversity targets, the insights shared during this event serve as a guiding light towards a more sustainable, resilient, and nature-aligned agricultural landscape.