With newfound strength and momentum, General Secretary and President To Lam affirmed that Vietnam is fully prepared for a new, historic era - one of national advancement. Speaking to scholars and experts at Columbia University on the morning of September 23rd in New York, President To Lam laid out a bold vision for Vietnam's future.

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General Secretary and President To Lam met with scholars and experts at Columbia University. Photo: VNA  

During the meeting, discussions highlighted the critical role of the government in providing direction and the private sector as the driving force behind Vietnam's technological growth, especially in artificial intelligence.

Experts suggested that Vietnam focus its resources on two to three key technology sectors, with particular emphasis on targeted investment in research and development (R&D) to foster a leading high-tech industry.

Thomas Vallely, Senior Advisor on Vietnam at the Weatherhead East Asian Institute, emphasized the urgent need for Vietnam to invest in strategic digital infrastructure, especially cloud computing and green energy.

In the semiconductor industry, experts praised Vietnam’s strategic direction in developing microchip technology. They stressed that a high-quality workforce is essential for securing a nation’s position within the global supply chain. A successful semiconductor ecosystem must be built on a foundation of collaboration between businesses and academic institutions.

Scott Fritzen, President of Fulbright University Vietnam, proposed reforms to traditional education to better equip students with the necessary skills to adapt to the rapid advancement of technology.

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Photo: VNA

U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Anne Neuberger expressed optimism about further strengthening Vietnam-U.S. cooperation, particularly in cybersecurity and combating cybercrime.

Addressing the gathering, General Secretary and President To Lam welcomed the insights and heartfelt contributions of the scholars and experts. He reiterated that Vietnam, with its new strength, is ready to embark on this historic journey.

Vietnam, he stated, will continue to advance comprehensive and sustainable reforms. The country’s economic and social development will remain the core focus, along with environmental protection.

General Secretary and President To Lam emphasized that the development of the Party will remain essential, while fostering cultural growth, ensuring national defense, and enhancing foreign relations will be key priorities. This will be done under the spirit of "self-reliance, self-confidence, and national pride."

To Lam outlined four major goals for the country’s future development: strengthening and modernizing national institutions; fostering science, technology, and innovation to boost productivity and competitiveness; reforming education to produce a highly skilled workforce; and focusing on new, emerging sectors.

The General Secretary and President called on scholars and experts to continue their cooperation with Vietnam, especially in research and policy development, to support the country’s growth in science and technology.

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In the presence of General Secretary and President To Lam, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet and Columbia University Executive Vice President Wafaa El-Sadr exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between Columbia University and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Photo: VNA  

In a significant moment during the event, Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Do Hung Viet and Columbia University’s Executive Vice President Wafaa El-Sadr signed a Memorandum of Understanding, cementing the partnership between the university and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Later in the day, Party Chief and President To Lam met with members of the Vietnam Innovation Network and Vietnamese experts in the U.S. The Vietnam Innovation Network, established by the National Innovation Center under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, connects top Vietnamese scientists and technologists worldwide to harness intellectual resources for the nation’s socio-economic development.

There are currently two Vietnam Innovation Networks in the U.S., located on the East and West coasts, comprising experts in technology, finance, law, and management, among other fields.

General Secretary and President To Lam expressed his appreciation for the contributions of these experts, noting their significant role in enhancing Vietnam’s capacity in science, technology, and innovation. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration to help Vietnam advance further in these fields.

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General Secretary and President To Lam met with representatives of the Vietnam Innovation Network. Photo: VNA

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Photo: VNA

Following the upgrade of Vietnam-U.S. relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, both nations are committed to expanding cooperation in semiconductor training and artificial intelligence.

Vietnam’s ability to train a high-quality workforce will be key to its future growth, especially in the context of digital and green transformation.

Mr. To Lam urged the Vietnam Innovation Network in the U.S. to continue expanding its membership and enhancing cooperation between Vietnamese and international experts.

Their efforts will be vital in helping Vietnam achieve its goal of becoming a leader in science, technology, and innovation.

Through the active participation of the Vietnamese diaspora, Vietnam can overcome technical and technological challenges, while also opening up new opportunities for collaboration with leading global partners.

The General Secretary noted that the Vietnam Innovation Network must build strong international connections to share knowledge and apply cutting-edge technological advancements to the country’s development.

Their role as a bridge between Vietnam and the world is crucial in bringing global innovations to the nation.

Tran Thuong