The forum was part of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3), scheduled for June 9-13 in Nice.

The Plenary Session 4 aims to mobilize large-scale financial resources to restore ocean health and accelerate the transition to a sustainable, regenerative blue economy. Representatives from Norway, Chile, Germany and others pledged to mobilize both public and private investment for this goal, laying the groundwork for a future that connects human progress with environmental preservation.

In his remarks, the Vietnamese Government leader thanked Prince Albert II of Monaco for hosting the forum, saying that the event reflects solidarity among nations and the private sector in regenerating the ocean economy.

He stressed that the ocean is not only a source of resources but also the origin of life and a vital connection between people and nature across all countries. For Vietnam, its more than 3,000 kilometers of coastline is not just a geographic reality, it is part of the nation’s cultural identity and spirit. Developing the marine economy in a sustainable and effective way is a strategic choice and an essential requirement for Vietnam to chart its future and realize its vision of becoming a strong maritime nation and a high-income country by 2045.

PM Chinh noted that while oceans cover 70% of the earth's surface, sustainable use and conservation receive the lowest level of investment among the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. He called this a paradox and a serious warning. Now more than ever, he said, countries must work together through inclusive, comprehensive and global cooperation.

Advocating fairness, equality, inclusion and sustainability, he outlined the following proposals: “Step up investment in marine science research and applications; promote technology transfer, joint research and experience sharing; and build a comprehensive ocean data system. Increase resource mobilization and ensure efficient, sustainable investment in the blue economy.

Let governments take the lead, businesses drive innovation, and people join hands. International organizations should play a catalytic role, and developed countries should offer support to shape a green ocean finance ecosystem. Vietnam is ready to pilot this model.

Enhance connectivity across continents, regions, and nations, and strengthen global ocean governance. The United Nations should take a central role, international law should serve as the foundation, and cooperation should be the key driver.”

To build blue growth hubs and link key economic centers, PM Chinh said Vietnam is ready to participate and make positive contributions to the development of this network in the East Sea, a strategic sea area of the world.

“Although countries differ in political systems, development levels and cultural traditions, we share a common mission-to preserve the ocean as a vital space for life and sustainable development for today and for future generations.

As a maritime nation, Vietnam pledges to be a reliable partner in global ocean protection. We pledge to join efforts in leading green and sustainable marine cooperation, and we stand ready to contribute to fair and sustainable blue finance initiatives,” he said.

In his closing remarks, French President Emmanuel Macron commended countries’ efforts in ocean protection, including those of Vietnam. He echoed and reviewed the views expressed by PM Pham Minh Chinh and other national leaders attending the forum, stressing that ocean protection is not only an environmental issue but also a political, economic, scientific and ethical one. What matters most, he said, is that every country, every business, scientist and individual must join hands to take action.

Wrapping up the forum, Prince Albert II of Monaco emphasized that the two-day event had seen strong and concrete commitments from countries along with specific solutions for sustainable ocean governance. These include appropriate tools to break the cycle of ocean degradation, such as ecosystem-respecting fisheries and the advancement of a new blue economy driven by biotechnology and the creation of new value.

PM Pham Minh Chinh begins activities at UN Ocean Conference

VOV.VN - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh kicked off first activities at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) on June 8, at the invitation of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and French President Emmanuel Macron.

PM Chinh arrives in Nice for UN Ocean Conference and France visit

VOV.VN - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse, and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation arrived in Nice on June 7 afternoon (local time), commencing a five-day working visit to France, where he will attend the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) and carry out a series of bilateral activities.