Hanoi seeks Austrian expertise for sustainable urban growth
From metro tunneling to waste management, Austrian technologies are expected to help reshape Hanoi's urban landscape under a new partnership focused on sustainable development.
THE HANOI TIMES — As Hanoi accelerates its push for sustainable urban development, the city is looking to learn from Austria's advanced technologies and effective urban planning strategies.
During a meeting with Austrian Ambassador Philipp Agathonos today [April 8], Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh emphasized that the city's 2045 development plan requires the use of expertise from partners such as Austria.
Thanh proposed the establishment of concrete cooperation mechanisms, from business exchanges to technology transfer and quality education for workers. The chairman also expressed hope for expanded cooperation in agriculture, construction, and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Hanoi Mayor Tran Sy Thanh (R) discussed key areas of cooperation with Austrian Ambassador Philipp Agathonos during a meeting on April 8. Photo: Viet Anh/The Hanoi Times
Ambassador Agathonos reiterated Austria's willingness to share its expertise in green transport, waste management, and digital transformation to support the Vietnamese capital. He also noted that Austrian delegations will visit Vietnam in the coming months to advance these agreements, marking a new chapter of cooperation for a more modern and sustainable Hanoi.
Another key suggestion during the meeting was closer cooperation between Hanoi and Vienna, the capital of Austria, for smart urban planning. Agathonos highlighted Austria's willingness to support Hanoi's metro projects with advanced tunneling technology, as well as solutions for urban railways and water pollution control.
Cooperation between Hanoi and Austria dates back to 2018, with joint projects such as the Emergency Command Center developed with Austrian firm Frequentis AG, as well as cultural exchanges like "European Days."
Austria ranks among Vietnam's top 10 EU trading partners, with annual bilateral trade reaching $3 billion. Austrian companies have invested in key sectors in Hanoi, including manufacturing, IT, and entertainment.
