This request was made by experts from the International Union for Conservation of Nature after their tours to Dong Nai, Binh Phuoc and Lam Dong provinces in September last year, to inspect the park and meet the people and authorities of its buffer zones.
Covering nearly 72,000 ha in the three provinces, the Cat Tien National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna with nearly 1,700 species, including many rare plants and animals named in the Red Book. It is home to 11 ethnic minority groups and the ancient Oc Eo culture.
The park is one of six world biosphere reserves in Vietnam and among one of four nominations seeking UNESCO status as a world natural heritage.