National Focus on Science and Technology Transformation in Vietnam

On January 13, a significant conference took place in Hanoi, led by the Politburo and Central Secretariat of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The primary aim was to enhance advancements in science, technology, innovation, and the digital transformation within the nation.

The conference featured key government figures including General Secretary To Lam, President Luong Cuong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, along with other notable past and present leaders.

This event was conducted both in-person at the Dien Hong Hall in the National Assembly Building and through online channels, connecting various Party committees, ministries, and local authorities across Vietnam.

The gathering evaluated the progress of prior resolutions from the Party Central Committee and the Politburo focused on enhancing scientific and technological sectors. It also promoted Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, released on December 22, 2024, which is designed to stimulate innovation and digital changes nationwide.

At the conference, it was revealed that the Central Steering Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation has been established, with General Secretary To Lam as its leader.

This committee includes 19 members, with deputy leaders that comprise Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Permanent Member of the Secretariat Tran Cam Tu, Central Office Chief Nguyen Duy Ngoc, Head of the Central Economic Commission Tran Luu Quang, and Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Duc Hai.

It also involves key figures such as leaders from the Central Organization Commission, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and the Central Propaganda Commission, in addition to vital ministers from sectors like national defense, public security, education, finance, planning, and information technology.

This committee will report directly to the Politburo and Central Secretariat, overseeing initiatives that advance science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Their duties encompass:

• Formulating strategic policies and legal frameworks for the Politburo and Central Secretariat.
• Collaborating with Party organizations to ensure effective enforcement of Party resolutions and laws related to science and technology.
• Evaluating and suggesting updates to administrative processes that impact the development of science and technology.
• Maintaining strict supervision over any party or individual hindering progress in these fields.
• Enhancing public awareness about national objectives in science, technology, and innovation while tackling any misinformation.
• Providing regular updates on the progress and results of their initiatives to the Politburo and Central Secretariat.

Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW was initiated by General Secretary To Lam on December 22, 2024, setting forth national targets to boost science, technology, innovation, and digital progress.

This resolution highlights that investing in these sectors is vital for Vietnam’s growth and will help achieve major objectives by 2030 and 2045.

Goals include ensuring that the digital economy represents at least 30% of GDP by 2030 and 50% by 2045.

Furthermore, Vietnam aims to emerge as a key center for industrial and digital technology both regionally and globally, aspiring to be among the top 30 countries in terms of innovation and digital transformation.