A workshop discussing cooperation between Japanese metropolises and the Vietnamese city of Da Nang in sustainable urban development was held in the central city on November 20.

The event was organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in conjunction with the International Cooperation Agency for of Japan’s Yokohama City and the Municipal People’s Committee.

It aimed to uncover urban related issues that face developing cities such as Da Nang, while mapping out measures to promote sustainable growth in the city in the future.

At the workshop, participants proposed future urban development initiatives for Da Nang through international cooperation. They also introduced JICA’s proposals as well as Yokohana city’s global model on sustainable urban management.

According to representatives from JICA, in order to develop Da Nang into a major economic zone in the central region, the city should expand regional connection by creating new air and sea routes and building new roads.

The city also needs to better control the impact of floods, tsunamis and landslides while preserving the ecosystem and protecting cultural heritage.

At present, Da Nang has 278 foreign investment projects with a total capital of 3.3 billion USD.

Japan is now the leading country in the number of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in Da Nang with 68. It also ranks third in the volume of capital to the city with over 355 million USD.

Additionally, the Japanese people are among the top ten international visitors bringing money into Da Nang’s tourism market.

Yokohama is one of Japan’s most dynamic development cities. In its development process, it has dealt successfully with obstacles such as environment pollution, the increase of its population and the downgrade of infrastructure. These positive measures have contributed to promoting economic growth and sustainable urban development.-VNA