Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association (VUPDA) and American Planning Association – International Division (APA-ID) Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen International Collaboration.
Hanoi, Vietnam – November 21, 2023 – The Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Agency (VUPDA) is delighted to announce a historic moment in its journey as it celebrates its 25th anniversary and takes a significant step towards international collaboration. On this special occasion, VUPDA is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the American Planning Association – International Division (APA-ID) to further strengthen their partnership in addressing global urban planning challenges.
Mr. Tran Ngoc Chinh, President of VUPDA, and Mr. Jing Zhang, Chair of APA-ID, officially sign the MoU, solidifying a partnership that promises to foster cooperation and knowledge sharing between the two organizations, with a focus on addressing critical urban planning challenges faced by both Vietnam and the United States.
“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 Mr. Tran Ngoc Chinh, President of VUPDA.
Mr. Jing Zhang, Chair of APA-ID, added, “We believe that by working together, we can leverage the expertise and knowledge of both organizations to develop innovative solutions for the urban planning challenges that our countries share. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to fostering global collaboration.”
Ms. Natella Svistunova, Public Affairs Officer, U.S Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, delivers a Congratulatory Remarks. The U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City congratulates APA-ID and VUPDA on signing an MOU to promote sustainable urban planning and development. The MoU is a significant development amid the upgraded U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, emphasizing a joint vision for innovation-driven, inclusive economic growth. The Consulate General is thrilled to see this partnership made possible by Ms. Mai Nguyen, a U.S. exchange alumna at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and looks forward to the positive impact and enhanced collaboration among urban planners and educators, fostering a sustainable and prosperous future.
Prof. Bill Anderson, the former national President of the American Planning Association (2013-2015) and a Professor at UC San Diego, highlights the importance of international connections in urban planning and expresses expectations for future collaboration with Vietnamese planners.
The signing of the MoU between VUPDA and APA-ID not only represents a significant step forward in addressing the shared challenges of urban development but also reflects the strengthening of the relationship between Vietnam and the United States. It showcases the commitment of both organizations to work hand in hand to create more sustainable and resilient cities for the benefit of current and future generations.
About VUPDA:
Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association – VUPDA, was established under Decision No. 24/1998 / QD-TTg, issued by the Prime Minister, February 2, 1998. The Vietnam Urban Planning Association is a socio-professional organization that brings together people working in urban planning and development throughout the country, voluntarily striving for the purpose of construction and develop Vietnam’s urban areas in a sustainable manner, in the direction of industrialization and modernization. With the main role of a social criticism consultant, the Association operates nationwide, on the principle of complying with the provisions of the law, to contribute to building and protecting the Socialist Vietnam Fatherland.
Website: https://quyhoachdothi.com/en/ President: Mr. Tran Ngoc Chinh
About APA-ID:
The American Planning Association – International Division (APA-ID) is a division of the American Planning Association (APA) dedicated to fostering international collaboration in the field of urban planning. Established in 2004, APA-ID works to connect American planners to the world while also bringing together professionals and organizations worldwide to share knowledge, best practices, and advance urban planning on a global scale.
Website: https://international.planning.org/ Chair: Mr. Jing Zhang; Representative to Vietnam: Ms. Mai Nguyen.
For media inquiries, please contact: Ms. Hue Nguyen, Deputy Director, Board of International Cooperation and Training of VUPDA; Email: bichhue.moc@gmail.com