Vietnam Advocates Stronger Economic Collaboration with France and the EU to Drive Digital and AI Development
Vietnam is reinforcing its position as a key gateway for trade between ASEAN and Europe, as highlighted at the 3rd Southeast Asia Business Forum in Paris on February 12, 2024. Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Bui Hoang Phuong urged French corporations and EU enterprises to enhance investment in Vietnam and ASEAN, emphasizing long-term economic partnerships and technological collaboration.
A Strategic Economic and Digital Partner
Speaking at the event, Phuong reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to providing a stable business environment for foreign investors, particularly in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and technology-driven sectors. He emphasized that Vietnam welcomes sustainable and mutually beneficial investments that contribute to regional and global economic growth.
Vietnam’s strategic location in ASEAN, along with its longstanding relationship with France, positions it as a crucial partner in strengthening Europe-Southeast Asia trade ties. The forum, held alongside the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, provided a platform for economic leaders, experts, and 200 business representatives to discuss investment opportunities and market trends in the ASEAN region.
Deepening Vietnam-France Economic Relations
French Minister for Foreign Trade and Overseas French Affairs Laurent Saint-Martin highlighted the forum’s role in helping French businesses better understand the economic potential of Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam. He stressed the importance of direct engagement with Vietnamese importers and consumers, fostering business collaborations, and leveraging the strategic partnership signed in October 2023 through concrete trade agreements.
Currently, over 300 French companies operate in Vietnam, focusing on healthcare, cosmetics, food processing, aviation, and technology. Adam Koulaksezian, Director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Vietnam, noted that French firms are keen to expand investments in high-growth sectors such as AI, digital transformation, and renewable energy.
AI and Semiconductor Collaboration Takes Center Stage
FPT Software, one of Vietnam’s leading technology firms with a 20-year partnership with French companies such as Airbus and Canal+, emphasized its readiness to drive AI and semiconductor collaboration. Chairperson Chu Thi Thanh Ha stated that FPT Software is actively preparing for concrete cooperation projects in AI and technology, in anticipation of the upcoming French leadership visit to Vietnam.
Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang expressed confidence that this forum will strengthen trade ties and accelerate digital transformation. He encouraged greater cooperation in key industries, including AI, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable development, as part of Vietnam and France’s comprehensive strategic partnership.
A Vision for the Future
The 3rd Southeast Asia Business Forum in Paris reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing regional trade, digital economy partnerships, and technological innovation. As Vietnam continues to position itself as a key economic hub within ASEAN, the forum set the stage for stronger investment collaborations between Europe and Southeast Asia.
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