Well-known scientists gather at fundamental science and society seminar

More than 250 renowned scientists in Vietnam and around the world are participating in the seminar on fundamental science and society, which was held in Quy Nhon city in the south central coastal province of Binh Dinh on July 7.

Deputy PM Vu Duc Dam speaking at the seminar (Credit: congan.com.vn)
Deputy PM Vu Duc Dam speaking at the seminar (Credit: congan.com.vn)

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam attended the seminar, one of major activities under the 12th “Meet Vietnam” programme conducted by the Meeting Vietnam Association, which was founded by Vietnamese-French Professor Tran Thanh Van.

Addressing the opening ceremony for the seminar, Deputy PM Dam appreciated the activities of the Meet Vietnam Association over the past years. He emphasised that the association has attracted numerous world well-known scientists, particularly Nobel laureates, as well as brought advanced scientific achievements to Vietnam, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.

The Deputy PM said that the Vietnamese Government has always directed the ministries, relevant agencies and Binh Dinh province to create favourable condition for the association to successfully organise international conferences and seminars in Vietnam, as well as support investment in infrastructure and equipment for the International Centre of Interdisciplinary Science Education in Binh Dinh.

He also affirmed Vietnam’s attention to the development of science worldwide, particularly fundamental science. Specifically, after gaining independence in 1945, President Ho Chi Minh appealed to patriotic intellectuals living abroad to return home, as well as elected numerous officials to study and research abroad to serve the homeland, noted Deputy PM Dam.

After over three decades of doi moi (renovation), the Vietnamese Government has increased its investment in science and technology by over 30 times compared to the previous period, added the Deputy PM.

According to Prof. Tran Thanh Van, the international seminar aims to propose issues related to fundamental science and society in Asian countries, particularly developing ones neighbouring Vietnam. The event also creates a place for scientists to discuss with policy makers and representatives of the private sector on the importance of science to the advancement of society.

The seminar features numerous subjects including the importance of pursuing fundamental science in emerging countries, fundamental science and sustainable development, fundamental research and the peace, fundamental research and the climate.

On the occasion, the Meeting Vietnam Association celebrated the 50th anniversary of the ‘Moriond Meeting’ (1966-2016) – one of the largest annual physics conferences where scientists around the world gather at Moriond village in France to discuss particle physics.