Cyrille Bellier in Southeast Asia: Strengthened Cooperation for Sustainable Development and a Just Energy Transition

Cyrille Bellier, Director of Europe, Middle-East, Asia Department at Agence Française de Développement (AFD), recently led a strategic mission in Southeast Asia, covering Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, from September 13 to 20, 2024.

This mission aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation and advance key projects in the areas of energy, infrastructure, education, and potable water. In collaboration with the European Union and other international partners, the mission focused on implementing the Global Gateway strategy and promoting the Partnership for a Just Energy Transition (JETP).

• Thailand: Cooperation with the European Union and Urban Resilience in Bangkok.

Cyrille Bellier participated in a series of meetings with the European Union Delegation, development partners with ADB, WB and JICA and a Team France meeting. Those exchanges focused on AFD's priorities in biodiversity, energy, and urban resilience. They also reinforced cooperation within the Global Gateway initiative, aiming to promote sustainable solutions for the region.

Read more about our action towards biodiversity in Thailand here

• Cambodia: Education, Sustainable Agriculture, and Water Access projects.

In Cambodia, the delegation visited flagship projects such as Sala Bai, a school providing vocational training to disadvantaged youth, and Agrisud, which promotes sustainable agriculture. A key moment of the mission was the visit to the Bakheng Water Treatment Plant in Phnom Penh, funded by the AFD, which will provide clean drinking water to thousands of residents, a crucial project for public health and resilience to rapid urbanization. The inauguration of AFD's new offices in Phnom Penh marked the Agency's long-term commitment to supporting Cambodia's sustainable development.

Read more about our action towards Blue economy in Cambodia here

• Vietnam: Energy Transition and Metro Line 3 opening.

The mission in Vietnam focused on two main areas: promoting the energy transition under the Partnership for a Just Energy Transition (JETP) and the visit of Metro Line 3 in Hanoi. Cyrille Bellier participated in a mission under the Team Europe initiative, led by Peteris Ustubs, Director for Asia, Central Asia, Pacific and Middle East at INTPA (European Commission International Partnerships), with the participation of Thouraya Triki, Director of Partnerships at the EIB (European Investment Bank), along with all European stakeholders such as KFW, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, Invest International, AFD and Proparco.

During this mission, the flagship Global Gateway project of the Bac Ai pumping station, a 2200 MW hydropower facility, was highlighted. The AFD's role as a leader in supporting Europe's involvement in Vietnam's energy transition challenges was also emphasized. On this occasion, the Team Europe mission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Vietnam in its efforts to green its energy mix.

Additionally, the opening of Metro Line 3 in Hanoi, financed by the AFD, represents a major project for the city. This sustainable transport system, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve urban mobility, is a strong symbol of AFD's commitment to transitioning toward green infrastructure in Vietnam.

Read more about Vietnam's actions toward adaptation here

• A Future-Oriented Mission

This tour of Southeast Asia highlighted AFD's commitment to supporting transformative projects in key sectors such as education, sustainable agriculture, water access, and green infrastructure. The mission also strengthened cooperation with European and international partners within the framework of the Partnership for a Just Energy Transition (JETP), crucial for achieving Vietnam and the region's climate goals. About AFD The French Development Agency (AFD) is a public institution that finances, supports, and accelerates transitions.towards a fairer and more sustainable world. Together with our partners, we create shared solutions to fight poverty and inequality.

Contact :
Jean-Edouard Naslin : [email protected]