Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park recognized as UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam has achieved a significant international honor, being recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve for the first time.

The announcement came during the 38th session of the International Coordinating Council of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme in Paraguay. This latest recognition adds to the park's previous accolades, including its designation as a World Natural Heritage site in 2003 for its unique geological and geomorphological features, and a further extension for its ecosystems and biodiversity.

“

The title of Phong Nha-Ke Bang World Biosphere Reserve is not only a pride for Quang Tri province in particular and Vietnam in general, but also a great responsibility in preserving precious natural values for current and future generations.

Lê Văn Bảo, Vice Chairman of the Quảng Trị Provincial People's Committee, stated that the World Biosphere Reserve title is a source of pride for Quảng Trị province and Vietnam. He emphasized that it also brings a profound responsibility to preserve the area's precious natural values for present and future generations.

Bảo highlighted that this new status presents an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation, share expertise, and mobilize resources for conservation, scientific research, and sustainable development. The park, covering over 515,000 hectares, now shares a cross-border World Natural Heritage status with Laos' Hin Nam No National Park, symbolizing international collaboration in nature conservation and transboundary ecosystem management. This recognition is anticipated to boost Phong Nha-Ke Bang's international profile, opening doors for advancements in biodiversity research, environmental education, and eco-tourism.

“

This is also an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation, share experiences, and mobilize resources for conservation, scientific research, and sustainable development.