Switzerland sends experts to support Vietnam in Typhoon Yagi recovery

The meeting between the Directorate of Water Resources and Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and the Swiss Embassy in Vietnam (Photo: VGP)

The Directorate of Water Resources and Natural Disaster Prevention and Control (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development) has held a meeting with the Swiss Embassy in Vietnam.

At the meeting, Pham Duc Luan, Director of the Directorate, shared with the Swiss side the situation caused by Typhoon No. 3, the storm's aftermath, and the heavy rains that affected northern provinces, leading to severe damage in both lives and infrastructure.

Swiss Ambassador to Vietnam, Thomas Gass, expressed condolences for the losses Vietnam has suffered and affirmed Switzerland's readiness to stand by Vietnam with both human and material support.

Regarding personnel, Switzerland will send a team of about eight highly experienced experts in areas such as clean water, sanitation and safe housing to conduct detailed surveys and assess the needs of the affected provinces. The expert team will provide recommendations on appropriate reconstruction strategies. The team is expected to conduct surveys in Yen Bai Province next week.

In terms of material support, Switzerland has sent a relief shipment to Vietnam, with a total weight of 25,789 kg and a value of approximately CHF361,140. The shipment was expected to arrive at Noi Bai International Airport on September 16. The goods include comprehensive equipment and systems related to safe housing, clean water and sanitation. Experts will accompany the shipment to assist local authorities in setting up the equipment.

During the meeting, both sides also discussed Vietnam's current situation and Switzerland's available resources to support Vietnam, not only for immediate recovery but also for long-term reconstruction efforts./.