Can Tho city wishes to receive financial support for the implementation of urban planning from Spain and its experience to help it develop a smart city as well as fully exploiting the cultural and architectural values of Can Tho river banks, Vice Chairman Duong Tan Hien spoke at the meeting.

Spain is a leading country in many fields namely tourism, urban design, water management, transportation, and smart technology. Spain and Vietnam have signed many financial cooperation programs with priority given to climate change response and urban planning. Therefore, Vice Chairman Duong Tan Hien believed that these are advantages for Spain to support Can Tho to effectively implement the plan.

Furthermore, Vice Chairman Duong Tan Hien proposed an urban reconstruction plan and new model development for the city’s downtown area in line with the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model which is an urban development model that optimizes the residential, business, and leisure space within walking distance of public transport. The urban planning scheme will span over 360 hectares, mainly focusing on the Can Tho riverbanks. It aims to improve the architectural landscape, and cultural and commercial services in Ninh Kieu wharf area. This project will contribute to promoting regional economic development, responding to climate change, and improving people's quality of life.

Throughout the years, Can Tho has been implementing many projects to expand its cultural and commercial centers and architectural landscapes. However, the urban development of the city is still not commensurate with its central position in the Mekong Delta.

Mr. Nestor Santos Franco, Economic and Commercial Counselor at the Spanish Embassy in Vietnam.

Mr. Nestor Santos Franco, Economic and Commercial Counselor at the Spanish Embassy in Vietnam, suggested that Can Tho city should focus on detailed planning on urban infrastructure development included in the plan. Specifically, attention should be paid to the expansion of a tram system, which can connect the Ninh Kieu wharf area with neighboring localities.

Mr. Nestor Santos Franco added that Spain and Viet Nam have signed many financial cooperation programs. These are advantages for Can Tho city to access preferential capital from the Spanish Government in implementing the urban development project for the downtown area as soon as possible.