The conference on the theme of “European Green Business Solutions for Vietnam” (Green Biz 2009) will be jointly held by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and the European Chamber of Commerce (EuroCham).

The conference is an important European initiative to discuss current challenges to Vietnam in energy and water supplies, transport and civil engineering, and mitigate adverse effects on the environment while maintaining sustainable development, said EuroCham President Alain Cany at a press conference on Sept. 10.

Citing Vietnam as one of the five countries to suffer the most from climate change, Cany said that the conference is a chance for European businesses to share their expertise and consult with the Vietnamese government and its business community.

Hubert Colaris, Commercial Counselor and Head of the French Embassy’s Economic Mission to Vietnam, spoke highly of the Vietnamese government’s efforts and determination to deal with environmental issues, which, he said, still pose a big threat to the country’s development.

In his opinion, Green Biz is a suitable forum to discuss Vietnam’s sustainable development and provides a good chance to set up partnerships and consolidate ties between Vietnamese and French enterprises.

Seven discussions to be held during the two-day conference will touch upon the development of green business in Vietnam, including investment in clean energies, the effective use of energy, the management of sustainable water sources and corporate social responsibilities.

An exhibition on the same theme will be held concurrently with the conference. According to the organising board, more than 50 leading European green technology providers have registered to attend the exhibition.

Established in Vietnam in 1998, EuroCham is one of the biggest foreign business associations in the country with over 600 members and 1,200 commercial representatives. It has made many positive contributions to help Vietnam become an attractive investment destination.