We must avoid a situation where resolutions are passed but not implemented.

In addition, the systematization of inter-sectoral data and statistics has been implemented, and basic research has been strengthened. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has updated meteorological, hydrological, oceanographic, sediment, and water resource data for the region. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has focused on surveying and assessing the situation of riverbank and coastal erosion.

In terms of resources, central and local agencies have so far planned to allocate approximately 18,000 billion VND to implement programs and projects.

Resolution 120 represents a breakthrough in innovative thinking and approach; however, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, some agencies and localities have not truly embraced this spirit of innovation, still relying on guidance and support resources from the central government.

After ministries and agencies reported on the implementation and preparation for the conference summarizing the implementation of Resolution 120, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc emphasized that this Resolution was meticulously researched and developed in terms of development perspectives, development models, and specific solutions, and was highly appreciated by experts both domestically and internationally. In the context of severe climate change, an early summary and evaluation of the Resolution's implementation is essential.

The Prime Minister assessed that ministries, sectors, and localities have made progress in organizing the implementation of the Resolution, including projects to restructure agricultural production and some sectors in the Mekong Delta region.

However, the Prime Minister pointed out that there is still a lack of decisiveness in implementing the Resolution, including many issues that need to be addressed in terms of thinking and action; and a lack of proactiveness in mobilizing the people in implementing the Resolution.

“We need a more thorough assessment of the directives from all levels and sectors, especially localities, in implementing the Resolution. Are there any sectors that haven't implemented it since the Resolution was issued? Are there any sectors that haven't even read the Resolution to understand their responsibilities? I see there are, not none. A passive mindset, forgetfulness, acceptance of the old ways, and a refusal to innovate are present, while many ministers are actively involved in work, addressing issues related to the lives and development of the Mekong Delta. Development orientation and implementation guidance are extremely important for a sensitive riverine region like the Mekong Delta, which is strongly and profoundly impacted by climate change,” the Prime Minister said, and requested that the situation of “starting something but not doing it” be avoided, where a Resolution is issued but not implemented.

The Prime Minister requested that in the coming period, appropriate guidance on science and technology be provided to address the climate change situation in the Mekong Delta region, thereby addressing the restructuring of the agricultural sector and related fields for sustainable regional development, for the benefit of the people and to improve their living standards.

Along with that, it is necessary to clarify the issue of resources for the development of the Mekong Delta. Besides the State budget and ODA funds, it is necessary to socialize through public-private partnership (PPP) models, mobilizing various types of businesses. Timely supplementary resources for the development of the Mekong Delta region should be provided from the medium-term contingency fund from now until 2020. Focus on developing infrastructure, especially irrigation and transportation infrastructure...
The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Finance to consider the establishment of a fund for investment and development in the Mekong Delta region in accordance with current regulations; and to research and propose the formation of a steering and management agency to implement the Resolution.

At the meeting, the Prime Minister agreed with the proposal of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to organize the "Mekong Delta Forum 2019: From Policy to Implementation," thereby accelerating the implementation of Resolution 120. The Prime Minister requested a detailed report outlining achievements, highlighting shortcomings and weaknesses, and especially outlining future solutions; assigning specific tasks, including guidance and resources for implementation. In addition, concrete activities must be planned before the conference, particularly requiring ministries and agencies to seriously implement the tasks assigned in the Resolution.

The Prime Minister suggested considering holding the Forum before May 20th, and that it should invite international experts and representatives from countries with experience in responding to climate change and sea level rise, such as the Netherlands.