Ha Giang (VNA) – Thenorthern mountainous province of Ha Giang and the Philippine province ofBenguet signed an agreement on cooperation in culture-sports, tourism, agricultureand investment following a workshop held in the former locality on November 10. 

Under the terms of the agreement,the two provinces will regularly maintain visits and share experience insustainable tourism development. They will also facilitate export of agro-forestryproducts, workforce training and trade promotion via fairs and exhibitions.

Speaking at the event, Chairwomanof the Legislative Council and Vice Governor of Benguet province FlorenceB.Tingbaoen said Benguet is a highland located 1,500m above the sea water levelwith mild climate, mostly relying on agriculture, mining, energy and tourism.

She said after touring Dong VanKarst Plateau Geopark, the delegation found out similarities between the twolocalities so that both sides will partner in tourism, agriculture andeducation.

Vice Chairwoman of the provincialHa Giang People’s Committee Ha Thi Minh Hanh said Ha Giang is home to abundantand diversified medicinal herbs and is working to become a key medicinal herb areaby 2020.

With cultural diversity andimposing scenery, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark has been recognised by theUNESCO as the first one of its kind in Vietnam.

The province’s export-importvalue hit 1.38 billion USD last year and is forecast to reach 2.7 billion USDthis year.

Hanh vowed all possible support to the implementationof the freshly-signed agreement.-VNA