Germany is a suitable partner to support Hanoi in drafting investment policies in the water sector, according to Christian Berger, German ambassador to Vietnam.
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In his three years in Vietnam and as a “Hanoian”, Berger said he wants to see Hanoi as a beautiful city without polluted rivers.
The German ambassador expected the forum to serve as platform for enterprises from both countries to exchange information and look for cooperation opportunities in the water sector, in turn contributing to the Vietnam – Germany relation.
Julia Braune, managing director of German Water Partnership (GWP), said the amount of water supply in Germany reaches 5.1 billion cubic meters per year, but the leakage rate is the lowest in the world at 6.8%.
Braune added that Germany cares deeply about the climate economy, in which mitigating the risks posed by climate change is a priority alongside economic growth. Vietnam and Germany share similarities in this regard, thus, it is necessary for both sides to share experiences and learn from each other, Braune stated.
To put things in perspective, Fank Pogade, chief representative of Tilia GmbH, said Hanoi currently uses 1.3 million cubic meters of clean water per day and the leakage rate is 18%. By 2020, the city would need around 2 million cubic meters of clean water, 3 million by 2030 and by 3.5 million by 2050.
With more open policies and participant of the private sector, the water sector in Vietnam has undergone significant transformation to reach international standards, Pogade said, adding Vietnam’s water sector remains attractive to foreign investors and has huge potential for development.
Speaking at the forum, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Nguyen The Hung said Hanoi identifies infrastructure developments, including water supply, treatment and environmental protection, among others, are priority for social security and better living standards of the people.
By 2020, Hanoi targets 100% people living in rural areas to have access to clean water, Hung added.
As of present, Hanoi aims to upgrade the rainwater drainage and wastewater treatment systems and encourage investors to participate in the process, particularly through the use of modern technologies.
Hanoi strives to give favorable conditions for investors taking part in water supply and drainage projects in the city, Hung asserted.
