Thang, who is also Chairman of the Central Theoretical Council, highlighted Joo’s expertise in economic development, artificial intelligence (AI), and semiconductors, noting their relevance to Vietnam’s current tech-focused transformation. He pointed to a recent Politburo resolution that prioritises breakthroughs in sci-tech and digital innovation to drive a new production model and modernise leadership practices.
Besides, the Party and State of Vietnam are pushing forward with Government restructuring to ensure a system that is streamlined, strong, efficient and effective. The synchronous enforcement of these strategic policies is expected to propel Vietnam into a new era of growth and development, he said.
The host expressed his hope that Joo would suggest development models aligned with Vietnam’s priorities of leveraging sci-tech and the private sector, toward a 8% growth goal in 2025 and over 10% in subsequent years.
Joo, who is also Chairman of the Korea Digital Innovation Association and former Minister of SMEs and Startups, urged Vietnam to pursue a “leader” approach in AI and technology rather than just catching up. He underlined the importance of building a competitive advantage to secure a top position globally.
Earlier that day, Joo attended the 2025 Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductor Conference (AISC) in Hanoi, where he praised Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s strategy of harnessing sci-tech, innovation, digital transformation, and green, digital, circular, creative, sharing, and knowledge-based economies as key growth drivers.
With a right strategy, Vietnam can rise to the forefront, he said, committing to partner with HCMA on sharing expertise in AI, semiconductor, and sustainable development policies.
