Vietnam, Japan Vow to Boost Sci-Tech, Digital Transformation Cooperation

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Le Tien Chau has called for further promoting cooperation between Vietnam and Japan in the fields of science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation (DX). The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration through concrete projects such as joint research, research and development (R&D), and the development of Vietnam's innovation ecosystem. The statement was made during discussions at the Vietnam-Japan Local Cooperation Forum, where "local cooperation" was highlighted as a distinctive feature of bilateral relations. The forum also stressed the need to translate strategic commitments into concrete actions. The Prime Minister expressed expectations for investment ties between the two countries to evolve into a "co-development partnership." Under its socialist one-party system, Vietnam prioritizes economic growth and actively seeks foreign investment. Japan, in particular, is a crucial economic partner for Vietnam, with its cooperation being indispensable in infrastructure development, manufacturing, and, in recent years, the promotion of digitalization. Against the backdrop of complex relations with China, Vietnam aims for economic independence and technological advancement, with technological cooperation with Japan being part of this strategy. The call for enhanced cooperation in science, technology, and DX is seen as an indication of Vietnam's ambition to transition from a mere manufacturing hub to industries with higher added value and to enhance its position in global supply chains. Close collaboration between the two countries is expected to contribute to Vietnam's sustainable economic growth and its establishment as a hub for technological innovation in the region.