At the Franconomics International Forum, held at VinUniversity on October 16, 2024, Ms. Adjara Diouf, representing the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), delivered a keynote address on sustainable tourism and energy transition. She conveyed greetings from Mr. Edgar Doerig, OIF’s Representative for Asia and the Pacific, and emphasized the forum’s theme, “Renewable Energy: Scenario for a Green Future”, which aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, focused on ensuring reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy for all. 

Ms. Adjara Diouf, representing the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie – OIF 

Ms. Diouf highlighted OIF’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy through its subsidiary, the Francophonie Institute for Sustainable Development (IFDD), which has been instrumental in helping member states develop policies for sustainable energy access and improving energy efficiency. Since the Francophone Heads of State Summit in Djerba in 2022, sustainable development has been a core focus of OIF’s activities. 

In addition to energy transition, Ms. Diouf emphasized OIF’s work in sustainable tourism. She introduced the “Destination Eco-Talents” initiative, which aims to establish multifunctional centers in several countries, including Vietnam, to raise awareness, provide training, and build capacity within local communities. These centers will support sustainable tourism development by creating jobs, especially for youth and women, while preserving natural and cultural resources. 

Ms. Diouf stressed that combining renewable energy and sustainable tourism is key to achieving long-term economic growth while protecting the environment. The “Destination Eco-Talents” project will help local communities improve their capabilities and reduce the environmental impact of tourism. The first centers are expected to launch in 2025 in Cambodia, Cabo Verde, Comoros, and Vietnam. 

In her conclusion, Ms. Diouf called for partnerships to further advance sustainable solutions in both tourism and energy sectors, emphasizing their importance for future development.