PM urges boosting science-technology and innovation for Vietnam’s development

Science, technology and innovation should be set as a pillar for Vietnam to boost rapid and sustainable socio-economic development, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has said.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaks at the conference held in Hanoi on May 15. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaks at the conference held in Hanoi on May 15. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)

>>> Science, technology and innovation pillars of development: deputy minister

PM Phuc made the suggestion while chairing an international conference themed “Science, technology and innovation as a pillar for socio-economic development in Vietnam”, held in Hanoi on May 15, by the Ministry of Science and Technology (S&T) in collaboration with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the International Development Innovation Alliance (IDIA).

The event aimed to clarify the role of S&T and innovation as an important foundation in socio-economic development, while discussing specific solutions and policies for Vietnam and providing suggestions from international experts to the local authorities, scientists and businesses for the socio-economic development orientation in the country. The conference is also a highlight of the National S&T and Creative Week taking place from May 13 to 17.

Stressing that human creativity is limitless PM Phuc noted that important factors which make a difference are humans and technology, which have helped countries with very few resources to achieve high economic growth.

Humanity is increasingly facing a scarcity in natural resources and Vietnam is the same, but all have endless resources, which are grey matter and creation. If the more exploited natural resources become exhausted, the more creative human resources will be. In enterprises or any organisation, not machinery and equipment, but creation is the most precious capital, he affirmed.

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc speaks at the conference. (Photo: NDO/Tran Hai)

Praising the Ministry of Science and Technology along with the Australian Embassy in Vietnam and the IDIA in organising the very important event for the first time in Vietnam, PM Phuc said that the conference is crucial for the Government to consult with international organisations for Vietnam’s 10-year socio-economic development plan during 2021-2030, with the goal of achieving rapid and sustainable development and overcoming the middle income trap.

It is also an opportunity for the relevant ministries, agencies, organisations and businesses to exchange and study international experiences in utilising S&T and innovation as a breakthrough for socio-economic development.

Vietnam needs to have a strategic transition to promote creativeness, start-up and R&D in combination with technology development in a number of new and key industries, the government leader said, adding the need to better boost the coordination between the State and the society in the development of S&T and innovation.

The PM asked the relevant sectors and localities to raise awareness and responsibility in directing the development of S&T, while continuing to improve the legal framework and the national innovation system with enterprises acting as a centre, as well as promoting close links between research institutes and universities with enterprises to accumulate intellectual property and create new sources for fast, inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

It is also essential to research and establish a national data bank for S&T and innovation, along with favourable policies to attract and collaborate with outstanding experts at home and abroad, especially the community of Vietnamese scientists abroad.

PM Phuc expressed his hope that every ministry, sector, locality, organisation and enterprise would join hands to promote innovation and effectively use S&T as a fast and sustainable development breakthrough. He also wished to continue receiving cooperation and support from Australia, the World Bank and other countries and international organisations for the development of the innovation ecosystem in Vietnam, as well as supporting Vietnamese enterprises to integrate deeply in the global value chain.