Vietnam will not develop the economy at all costs but will combine economic development with environmental protection, aimed towards a green economy, Minister of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung said.

The country has aimed to train laborers who can work in a green economy, the official said at the ASEM Conference on Green Skills for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in Hanoi on October 27.

The conference looks to implement then Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s initiative adopted at the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Summit in Italy in 2014. This is one of the four major ASEM activities hosted by Vietnam this year to mark the 20 years of the forum.

At the conference. Photo: Vietnam+

Participants at the event discussed promoting green skills towards sustainable growth, and boosting Asia-Europe cooperation in the field.

They suggested increasing dialogues and collaboration between Government agencies and social partners in developing policies and programs on green skills.

They also proposed initiatives on vocational training raised by the ASEM specialized cooperative group and narrowing development gaps.

The 53-member ASEM was created in 1996 as a forum for dialogue and cooperation between Europe and Asia.

It makes up nearly 63 percent of the world’s population, 57 percent of GDP and 68 percent of global trade.

ASEM leaders have displayed resolve to ensure sustainable and comprehensive growth, focusing on helping laborers adapt to rapid environmental changes.

Source: VNA