Vietnam is one of few countries in the world home to species of primates which are at risk of extinction and in need of urgent protection, told an October 9 international conference.
The event, jointly held by the Endangered Primate Rescue Center (EPRC), the Cuc Phuong National Park, and the Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS), was attended by 80 Vietnamese and foreign experts and scientists.
The delegates assessed real situations, pointed out direct threats and discussed measures to protect endangered primate species in Vietnam in the future.
Tran The Lien, Head of the Forestry General Department’s Nature Conservation Department said diversity of terrains, landscapes and weather conditions have enriched biodiversity in Vietnam, noting that the country’s biodiversity has been threatened due to climate change and human abuse, he noted.
According to the World Conservation Union (IUCN)’s Red List, Vietnam has seven species of endangered primates and approximately 90% of primates in the country are in danger of extinction.
Truong Quang Bich, Director of Cuc Phuong National Park, said in the early 1990s, a group of international experts helped the country protect many rare and endangered species.
Christian Roos from the IUCN appreciated the role of the EPRC and Tilo Nadler, chief representative of Leipzig Zoo in Vietnam, in rescuing and preserving primates.
He called on governments of countries to boost closer cooperation and take urgent measures to prevent the extinction of endangered primate species.
On this occasion, the participants made field trips to several nature conservation sites in the northern province of Ninh Binh.
(VOV)