Representatives of Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Agency pose for a group photo following the signing ceremony.

HÀ NỘI — Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Agency (VUPDA) and American Planning Association - International Division (APA-ID) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further strengthen their partnership in addressing global urban planning challenges.

President of VUPDA Trần Ngọc Chính, and Chair of APA-ID Jing Zhang officially signed the MoU, solidifying a partnership that promises to foster cooperation and knowledge sharing between the two organisations, with a focus on addressing critical urban planning challenges faced by both Việt Nam and the US.

"We are excited to celebrate the 25th anniversary of VUPDA and mark this occasion by solidifying our partnership with APA-ID. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our efforts to address the complex urban planning challenges we face today," said Chính.

"We believe that by working together, we can leverage the expertise and knowledge of both organisations to develop innovative solutions for the urban planning challenges that our countries share,” said Zhang, adding that the partnership is a testament to both sides’ commitment to fostering global collaboration.

The MoU is a significant development amid the upgraded US-Việt Nam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, emphasising a joint vision for innovation-driven, inclusive economic growth, said a representative of the US Consulate General in HCM City.

The Virtual MoU signing ceremony between VUPDA and APA-ID held on Tuesday. Photos Phương Thảo

Speaking at the hybrid event, Prof. Bill Anderson, the former national President of the American Planning Association (2013-2015) and a Professor at UC San Diego, highlighted the importance of international connections in urban planning and expressed high expectations for future collaboration with Vietnamese planners.

The MoU signing not only represents a significant step forward in addressing the shared challenges of urban development, but also reflects the strengthening of the relationship between Việt Nam and the US. It showcases the commitment of both organisations to work hand in hand to create more sustainable and resilient cities for the benefit of current and future generations. VNS