Management Agency of Merangin Jambi participated on APGN 2024 The 8th Asia Pacific Geoparks Network Symposium held in Non Nuoc Cao Bang UGGp Vietnam

Cao Bang Province, Vietnam. 11 September 2024.

The 8th Asia Pacific Geoparks Network (APGN) Congress will take place at Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp), Vietnam. This congress serves as an important gathering of geopark experts, scientists, researchers, and government representatives from various Asia-Pacific countries who are actively involved in the development and preservation of geoparks.

The 8th APGN Congress provides a platform for participants to share experiences, promote geological conservation, and enhance the role of geoparks as educational and sustainable development tools. The event will also highlight the geological, cultural, and biological diversity within geoparks.

Key topics at the congress include:

1. Geopark management and conservation strategies.
2. Strengthening the role of local communities in geopark preservation.
3. International collaboration in safeguarding natural and cultural heritage.

Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark, the host of this event, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, such as the Ban Gioc Waterfall and cave systems, as well as its rich cultural and historical significance.

Merangin Jambi UGGp representatives attended the APGN 2024 in Non Nuoc Cao Bang UGGp after a 4-hour journey from Hanoi, navigating through flooded and landslide-prone areas. On the evening of their arrival in Cao Bang Province, Vietnam, on 10 September 2024, all members of the Merangin Jambi delegation participated in an ice-breaking session at the Cao Bang City Hall to meet representatives from other UGGps and aspiring UGGps, as well as the UGGp Council members.

The following day, Merangin Jambi UGGp representatives attended the first-day agenda, which included:

1. APGN Advisory Committee (AC) Meeting.
2. APGN Coordination Committee (CC) Meeting, where APGN network leaders from each member country provided updates on UGGp developments, activities conducted in 2023-2024, and progress in aspiring UGGps and National Geoparks.
3. APGN CC Election, where Geoparks across the Asia-Pacific region elected five new Council members.
4. Participation in the GGN 20th Anniversary celebration, reflecting on the 20-year journey of Geopark development and the commitment to sustainable development through three pillars: education, conservation, and community empowerment through Geopark programs. The anniversary event also featured local cultural performances and speeches from UGGp Council members, followed by a Gala Dinner to conclude the first day.