Vietnamese Scientists Overseas: Key to Boosting Vietnam’s Science and Technology Sector?

During a recent meeting with the Vietnamese community in Korea, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his hope that Vietnamese scientists abroad would contribute to the development of the country. This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Dao Tuan Hung, Chairman of the Vietnam Business Association in Ho Chi Minh City, who highlighted the need for channels of information exchange to facilitate the transfer of science and technology from Korea to Vietnam.

Mr. Hung suggested establishing a research cooperation department, prioritizing research topics based on business needs, and creating a fund to support scientific research and startups. He proposed that this fund operate as a venture capital fund, funded by the government and partially socialized. The establishment of such channels will enable Vietnamese scientists to collaborate with their Korean counterparts and learn from their strategies for attracting foreign investment.

The Vietnam Innovation Network in Korea, represented by Mr. Nguyen Quang Phuoc, emphasized its willingness to support the transfer of science and technology as well as training and consulting for Vietnamese startups in Korea. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Tien stressed the importance of learning from Korea’s strategies for attracting foreign investment and suggested strengthening policies to promote research collaboration between domestic and overseas Vietnamese intellectuals and researchers.

Professor Pham Dinh Lam advocated for establishing a mechanism that would allow Vietnamese scientists worldwide to participate in research aimed at solving domestic challenges. He proposed creating a national innovation research portal where researchers could collectively address issues with government support. This will enable Vietnamese scientists to collaborate with international counterparts to find solutions to practical problems in various sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.

Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat responded positively to these suggestions put forth by the overseas Vietnamese community, highlighting ongoing efforts to develop an innovation decree that addresses obstacles to integrating science, technology, and innovation into business operations in Vietnam. The Minister emphasized building strong research groups that can collaborate with international counterparts on finding solutions to practical problems while enhancing bilateral relations between both countries.

Overall, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his eagerness for Vietnamese scientists abroad