Strengthening cooperation and sharing experiences in climate change response, a Ho Chi Minh City delegation recently visited and worked with São Paulo, Brazil (from September 30 to October 1).
During the meeting, officials from both cities discussed solutions for climate change response and disaster management in the current context. Both sides agreed to enhance efforts in seeking opportunities for collaboration in environmental protection and climate change response, especially as both cities are members of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, a global network of large cities fighting climate change.
The Ho Chi Minh City delegation visited São Paulo's Emergency Management Center (CGE) to learn from their model. The CGE monitors meteorological and hydrological events and informs agencies such as Civil Defense and the Fire Department.
CGE was established after a major flood in 1999 and now operates 24/7 with a team of experts using advanced technology to track weather conditions and provide alerts to the public. The center provides timely and accurate information, contributing to the safety of residents in all situations. Since its establishment, CGE has implemented several plans to prevent summer rains and invested around $3 billion in infrastructure to mitigate the impact of heavy rains.
The center also works closely with defense and security agencies to handle emergencies. The delegation highly appreciated the center's operations, particularly its role in early warning and reducing the loss of life and property. CGE has played an essential role in reducing human casualties to zero.
Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, Duong Ngoc Hai, expressed a desire to learn from São Paulo's experience in supporting residents in areas affected by climate change. Ho Chi Minh City hopes both sides will enhance their exchange of experiences in climate adaptation, green transition, and sustainable development.