HA NOI (VNS) — The Wallonia-Brussels Region of Belgium and Viet Nam approved 28 projects to be carried out in the next two years, reflecting the two partners' continued strengthening of co-operation.

The projects' approval was announced at a conference held by the Ministry of Planning and Investment in Ha Noi yesterday on the results of a meeting of the Joint Standing Committee for Viet Nam and Wallonia.

Estimated to total 4.5 million euros (US$5.88 million) of non-refundable development assistance, the co-operation projects focus on prioritised sectors such as sustainable development, health care, human resource development, the environment and scientific research.

Rudy Demotte, Minister-President of the Wallonia –Brussels Region of Belgium, said the Wallonia region was willing to provide support and transfer experience to Viet Nam through co-operation projects, especially in transport and logistics, industrial management and environment management.

According to Minister of Planning and Investment Bui Quang Vinh, the projects, although on a small scale, would have a large impact on the development of Viet Nam thanks to a focus on human resource training. The two ministers also expected to seek opportunities for further economic co-operation with the enhancement of private sector partnerships and authorities and universities from both sides. — VNS