8th Asia-Pacific Geoparks Network Symposium launched

BHG - The 8th Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Symposium opened in Cao Bang City, in the northern mountainous province of Cao Bangon September 12.The event saw the participation of Tran Duc Quy, member of the Ha Giang Provincial Party Committee and Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee.

The event featured a ceremony marking the 20th anniversary of the Global Geoparks Network (2004 - 2024), highlighting an important milestone in the network’s development journey.

Delegates pose for photos at the opening ceremony.

With the theme “Local/indigenous people and sustainable development in Geoparks”and six specialised workshops, the symposium focused on topics such as Indigenous knowledge and local community involvement in geopark development; disaster risk and geological hazardsreduction, and climate change adaptation; and investigation, assessment, preservation, and sustainable utilisation of heritage values.

The event also discussed the role of geoparks and sustainable development; education promotion and community awareness in geoparks; and challenges faced by regions seeking to become geoparks.

This international symposium is held every two years in countries across the Asia-Pacific region, aiming to exchange experiences, share successful models and innovative solutions, as well as create a forum for UNESCO Global Geoparks members to collaboratively develop UNESCO geoparks, while fostering cultural, scientific, and community connections in the region.

According to the agenda, the Ha Giang Province delegation will showcase publications, OCOP products, and distinctive handicrafts of the province, aiming to promote the UNESCO Global Geopark - Dong Van Karst Plateau to domestic and international friends.