Brian Jeffrey
In a transformative address, General Secretary and President To Lam conveyed Vietnam’s readiness to enter a significant new chapter focused on national progress. Speaking at Columbia University on September 23rd in New York, he unveiled an ambitious vision for Vietnam’s path ahead.
During the gathering, participants discussed the essential role of government in guiding Vietnam’s growth, complemented by the private sector’s pivotal influence on technological advancement, particularly in AI.
Experts advised Vietnam to concentrate its resources on a limited number of technology sectors, advocating targeted investments in research and development (R&D) to establish a leading high-tech industry.
Thomas Vallely, a Senior Advisor on Vietnam from the Weatherhead East Asian Institute, underscored the necessity for Vietnam to enhance its digital infrastructure, such as cloud computing and sustainable energy solutions.
In the realm of semiconductors, the audience recognized Vietnam’s strategic focus on microchip technology, emphasizing the importance of a skilled workforce for the nation to improve its position in the global supply chain. Building a robust semiconductor ecosystem requires cooperation among businesses and academic entities.
Scott Fritzen, the President of Fulbright University Vietnam, urged educational reforms to equip students with the skills needed to keep pace with the fast-evolving tech landscape.
U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Anne Neuberger shared optimism about enhancing Vietnam-U.S. partnerships, especially in tackling cybersecurity threats.
In his remarks, General Secretary and President To Lam welcomed the valuable insights shared by scholars and experts, reiterating Vietnam’s readiness to embark on a significant journey of growth and transformation.
He reaffirmed that Vietnam will pursue comprehensive and sustainable reforms, focusing on economic and social development while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
To Lam stressed that the Party’s development remains imperative, alongside nurturing cultural growth, ensuring national security, and enhancing international relationships, underpinned by a spirit of “self-reliance, self-confidence, and national pride.”
He identified four pivotal goals for Vietnam’s future: modernizing national institutions, promoting innovation in science and technology, reforming education to cultivate skilled talent, and prioritizing emerging sectors.
The General Secretary called on scholars and experts to maintain collaboration with Vietnam, particularly in research and policy initiatives to boost the country’s scientific and technological advancements.
A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Do Hung Viet and Columbia University’s Executive Vice President Wafaa El-Sadr, formalizing their collaboration.
Later, President To Lam engaged with members of the Vietnam Innovation Network and Vietnamese experts in the U.S. This network, initiated by the National Innovation Center, connects prominent Vietnamese professionals abroad to leverage their expertise for Vietnam’s socio-economic progress.
Currently, there are two Vietnam Innovation Networks in the U.S., on both coasts, consisting of specialists in various fields, including technology, finance, law, and management.
General Secretary and President To Lam expressed gratitude for the contributions of these experts, highlighting their critical role in enhancing Vietnam’s capabilities in science, technology, and innovation. He stressed the importance of persisting cooperation to further advance in these areas.
Following the enhancement of Vietnam-U.S. relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both nations are dedicated to increasing collaboration in semiconductor education and artificial intelligence.
The ability to train a highly skilled workforce will be crucial for Vietnam’s future development, especially concerning digital and environmentally friendly transformations.
Mr. To Lam encouraged the Vietnam Innovation Network in the U.S. to broaden its membership and strengthen ties between Vietnamese and international experts.
Their initiatives will be critical in helping Vietnam strive to become a frontrunner in science, technology, and innovation.
With the active involvement of the Vietnamese diaspora, Vietnam can tackle technological hurdles and explore new collaborative prospects with top global partners.
The General Secretary emphasized the need for the Vietnam Innovation Network to forge robust international connections to share knowledge and incorporate advanced technologies into the nation’s development.
Their function as a conduit between Vietnam and the global arena is vital in facilitating the transfer of international innovations to benefit the country.
Tran Thuong
