Experts meet to discuss water management in Vietnam   Vietnam’s annual water demand for agricultural cultivation is expected to reach 80.1 billion m3 (80.1 trillion litres) by 2020, said the President of Vietnam Water Association, Dr Vu Trong Hong. Dr Hong shared the association’s prediction at an international conference on the application of water solutions in Vietnam, held jointly by the Embassy of Israel in Vietnam, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the World Bank in Hanoi on August 26. The conference has assembled nearly 300 experts and representatives of relevant agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organisations and diplomatic missions to offer practical solutions to challenges faced by Vietnam in agriculture, rural and urban water sectors in light of the increasing demand for water access, allocation and services. According to Dr Hong, Vietnam is a water-rich country, with total surface water reserves of 853 billion m3, ranking eighth in the world. Its water per capita is 10,537 m3, ranking tenth globally. Despite its relative abundance in water resources, up to 60% of the country’s terrestrial water is produced overseas, and challenges have arisen due to the depletion of this valuable resource. The projected demand of 80.1 billion m3 of active water for cultivation and 3.1 million m3 for urban and rural needs by 2020 demonstrates an urgent need for effective management and use of water resources. The Sector Manager of Sustainable Development under WB Vietnam, Jennifer Sara, presented results of the organisation’s survey, which show that 43% of the rural population of Vietnam still lacks access to clean water. She added that the country’s development goals and poverty reduction would be advanced by the provision of reliable water, protection against destructive flooding and by striking a balance with environmental needs. Experts at the conference stressed the importance of increased State responsibility in management and exploitation of water resources. To achieve sustainable development of water resources, Vietnam needs to consider important measures such as strengthening communication and training on the issue, completing instructional and policy systems, and enhancing research and the application and transfer of science and technology, suggested Deputy General Director Nguyen Van Tinh from the Directorate of Water Resources. Representatives from leading Israeli companies in water solutions, including Hagihon, Miya, and Netafim, shared their experiences and lessons on the application of water solutions to agriculture, policy issues, effects of climate change and results-based approaches to urban water utilities. The event is part of the 2013 International Year of Water Co-operation declared by the UN General Assembly and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Israel.   T.H, Nhan Dan Online