Professor Carl Thayer from Australia talked to VietNamNet about this change.

First, Vietnam has a new plan for the ocean, which helps the country make better decisions. The ocean economy is now seen as a whole.

Second, Vietnam is focusing on a Blue Economy, which means developing high-tech industries like aquaculture and renewable energy.

Third, Vietnam has improved its coastal and island infrastructure, including ports and logistics networks.

However, Vietnam still needs a central agency to manage the ocean and its resources.

Before, Vietnam's approach to the ocean was separated into different sectors like oil, gas, and fisheries.

This old approach had four main problems.

One problem was that different ministries were in charge of different sectors, but they didn't work together well.

Another problem was that the focus was on exploiting resources, not sustainable development.

Economic development was mainly in coastal areas.

Environmental protection was not a priority.

The new approach sees the ocean as a strategic development space, which is a big change from the old sector-based planning.

This new approach prioritizes spatial planning and integration.

The ocean economy is now seen as one unified space where different sectors can develop together.

Vietnam's leaders want the ocean to be a key area for development.

The new approach is a big change from the old way of planning.

It focuses on promoting the Blue Economy and sustainable prosperity.

It also prioritizes sovereignty in offshore waters and national defense.

The health of marine ecosystems is now a priority.

Coral reefs and mangrove forests are important for tourism and coastal protection.

Professor Thayer said there are five key pillars for a strong maritime nation.

The first pillar is access to advanced marine technologies and digitalization.

This includes smart infrastructure like automated ports and digital ocean mapping.

Digital ocean mapping uses spatial data and sensors to monitor the ocean in real time.

Green marine technologies include alternative fuels and offshore renewable energy.

To be continued...

Tu Giang - Lan Anh