Vietnam Expects New Phase in Tech Cooperation with Russia, Eyes AI, Semiconductors

Vietnam is aiming to strengthen cooperation with Russia in science and technology, particularly in strategic areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor integrated circuits, batteries, and biotechnology. This aligns with Vietnam's policy of prioritizing its traditional friendship with Russia as a key element in its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralization, and diversification. During his visit to France, top Vietnamese leader General Secretary and President To Lam met with executives from Thales Group, a major French defense and technology company, stating that the upgrade of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects a shared desire to deepen cooperation in technological autonomy, resilience, and human resource development. He also affirmed Schneider Electric's commitment to long-term cooperation, contributing to a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable economy. Domestically, Vietnamese technology companies like FPT are making progress in the Korean market, and Vietnam expects these firms to further foster exchanges in technology and advanced research and development (R&D) models, connecting Vietnamese technology companies with South Korea. Expansion of joint research programs with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has also been proposed in areas including semiconductors, AI, batteries, and biotechnology. Digital advancements are also notable, with Vietnam's mobile internet speed ranking 10th globally in July 2026, according to Ookla's Speedtest Global Index. In Ho Chi Minh City, digital transformation in the legal profession is emphasized not just for introducing technology, but for creating work methods that ensure technology serves people while lawyers retain control and responsibility for service quality. During General Secretary and President To Lam's visit to China and Guangxi in April, a desire to further expand cooperation between Vietnam, especially border localities, and Guangxi in areas including AI was expressed. This indicates Vietnam's intention to leverage AI technology as a tool for addressing issues in state management, production, business, and social life. Furthermore, cooperation between Vietnam and Japan in science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation is expected to be promoted through concrete projects, including joint research and the development of Vietnam's innovation ecosystem. Vietnam is also shifting its government approach from providing funding to creating enabling conditions by developing infrastructure, platforms, standards, and markets, aiming to advance innovation and technology diffusion by bringing AI, digital, and green technologies to small and medium-sized enterprises and traditional sectors.