Chi tiết tin - Sở Ngoại vụ
Strengthening International Cooperation to Enhance the Value of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang Cave System
On March 13, 2026, at the headquarters of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Management Board, officials held a working session and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S National Speleological Society. Attendees included Mr. Pham Hong Thai, Director of the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Management Board; Mr. Thai Huu Lieu, Deputy Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs; and a delegation from the National Speleological Society led by Mr. Dean Allen Wiseman, with Dr. Geary Michael Schindel, former President of the Society, as well as representatives from relevant agencies and organizations.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views and agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Management Board and the National Speleological Society, covering several key areas. These include cave and karst exploration and surveying; training in cave rescue and emergency response; building databases and digitizing the cave system; and sharing expertise in management, tourism operations, services, and scientific research to unlock the full value of the cave network. The partnership also aims to position Phong Nha - Ke Bang as a leading adventure tourism destination in Asia.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Thai Huu Lieu, Deputy Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the practical importance of cooperation between the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Management Board and the National Speleological Society in strengthening international ties, advancing scientific research, and supporting the conservation and promotion of natural heritage values. He commended the U.S. partner’s strong reputation and extensive expertise in speleology, noting that the partnership provides a valuable opportunity for the locality to adopt modern, sustainable approaches to management and development. He also urged all parties to move quickly to implement concrete follow-up activities after the signing. He further emphasized that, in the context of deepening global integration, cultural diplomacy remains a key pillar of Vietnam’s foreign policy. Cooperation in cave research not only delivers scientific and economic benefits but also helps foster cultural exchange and promote the image of Vietnam, and Quang Tri Province in particular, to the world.
Looking ahead, the Deputy Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs suggested that both sides explore and share expertise to jointly organize a Cave Festival as a highlight of the “Festival for Peace,” a biennial event in Quang Tri Province. This would be an excellent opportunity to showcase the site’s outstanding universal value and attract international attention, especially from scientists, explorers, and adventure tourism enthusiasts. He also stressed that the Quang Tri Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to act as a key coordinator for external relations, actively supporting connections and fostering cooperation among all parties. The Department will work to provide guidance and create favorable conditions to ensure the Memorandum of Understanding is implemented effectively, helping the partnership grow in a meaningful, practical, and sustainable way.
Author: Đức Hạnh
Translator: Bảo Ngọc
View the Vietnamese version at https://sngv.quangtri.gov.vn/chi-tiet-tin/-/view-article/1/442011382601115302/1773816664181
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