Infrastructure plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of a country, and economic growth goes hand in hand with the need for significant investment in infrastructure. In Vietnam, seaports are an essential part of the effort to build and upgrade social infrastructure. Additionally, they serve as a driving force for the development of both maritime and national economies. Furthermore, seaports serve as trade routes for goods, linking various transportation methods from sea routes to railways, roads, and inland waterways.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, (PANYNJ) is a joint venture between the U.S. states of New York and New Jersey, established in 1921 through an interstate compact authorized by the United States Congress. The Port Authority oversees much of the regional transportation infrastructure, including bridges, tunnels, airports, and seaports, within the geographical jurisdiction of the Port of New York and New Jersey. This 1,500-square-mile (3,900 km2) port district is generally encompassed within a 25-mile (40 km) radius of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. The Port Authority is headquartered at 4 World Trade Center. The Port Authority operates the Port Newark–Elizabeth Marine Terminal, which handled the third-largest volume of shipping among all ports in the United States and operates six bi-state crossings: three connecting New Jersey with Manhattan, and three connecting New Jersey with Staten Island. The Port Authority Bus Terminal and the PATH rail system are also run by the Port Authority, as well as LaGuardia Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Teterboro Airport and Stewart International Airport.

Working session between representatives of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) with the Hai Phong delegation and group of American and Vietnamese investors

During the working trip to the United States, as part of the High-Level Week of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum 2023, a memorandum of understanding was signed between PANYNJ and the city of Hai Phong, along with the Vietnam-US Investor Consortium consisting of Saigon Telecommunication and Technology Corporation (Saigontel), Kinh Bac City Development Holding Corporation (KBC), and Energy Capital Vietnam Company (ECV). The parties signed the MOU to collaborate on the research of the international airport complex project in Tien Lang, Nam Do Son port, railway system, logistics center, and Hai Phong World Trade Center with the aim of benefiting all parties in areas such as operational optimization, business and marketing development, innovation, sustainability, and transformation.

Memorandum signing ceremony between PANYNJ and Hai Phong city along with the group of Vietnam - US Investor

After the signing ceremony, Mr. Le Tien Chau - Central Committee member, Secretary of the Hai Phong City Party Committee led the working delegation to visit and work with PANYNJ along with the Investor Consortium including Mr. Dang Thanh Tam - Chairman of KBC, Ms. Nguyen Cam Phuong - General Director of Saigontel, and Mr. David Lewis - Chairman of ECV. The delegation was welcomed by Bethann Rooney, port director, and the port leadership. During the visit, the parties exchanged insights and discussed the research, construction, management, and operation of airport projects, railways, logistics centers, and commercial centers. Additionally, they discussed development directions and future visions.

Promoting investment with leading partners in the field of infrastructure development from the United States brings potential and development opportunities which helps Hai Phong City to become one of the leading cities in Asia and the world. This contributes to enhancing the city's infrastructure development, as outlined in the general planning for the city in 2040 with a vision to 2050, which has been approved by the Prime Minister. It also strengthens the cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the United States following the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

Investment Promotion Department.

The high-level week of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum 2023 officially commenced on November 11 in San Francisco City, California, USA, attracting 21 world leaders from Pacific Rim economies and approximately 30,000 attendees. Upon an invitation from President Joe Biden, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Võ Văn Thưởng and the Vietnamese high-level delegation participated in and engaged in bilateral activities in the United States from November 14th to 17th, 2023

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, APEC is currently the leading economic cooperation and linkage mechanism in the Asia-Pacific region, encompassing 38% of the population, 62% of GDP, and nearly 50% of global trade. The theme for APEC 2023 is "Forging a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All," focusing on three priorities: "Connectivity," "Innovation and Digitalization," and "Inclusivity."

One of the significant sideline events at APEC was the roundtable discussion connecting U.S. businesses with Vietnamese localities, organized by the Ministry of Planning and Investment at the JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square hotel on November 15, 2023. This took place in the presence of the President, representatives of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, and Saigontel Green Alliance. During this event, a memorandum of understanding for research and the establishment of an Innovation Center by private sector investment in Ho Chi Minh City's High-tech Park was signed. The center is expected to encompass fundamental components such as a Green Growth Operation Center, Carbon Reduction Consultancy and Accreditation Center, Workforce Training focusing on semiconductor chip manufacturing and high technology, Chip Design and High Technology Development Center, and a Biotechnology Center.

The President, Vo Van Thuong, witnessed the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City and Saigontel Green Alliance exchanging a memorandum of understanding for the research and establishment of an Innovation Center funded by private sector investment.

At the JW Marriott San Francisco during this APEC event on November 16, 2023, the Ho Chi Minh City Investment Promotion Conference 2023 took place under the chairmanship of Mr. Phan Van Mai, Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City. The invitees included the San Francisco city government, Business Executives for National Security (BENS), American Critical Minerals Association (ACMA), Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), US-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC), National Small Business Association (NSBA), Ampere Computing Corporation, Exmar, and other distinguished guests attending the APEC 2023 Conference.

Mr. Phan Van Mai, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, witnessed the Saigontel Green Alliance signing agreements with members of the U.S. semiconductor chip, high technology, and innovation association.

At the conference, Mr. Phan Van Mai delivered a speech regarding Ho Chi Minh City's efforts to attract investments in high technology. Together with various dignitaries, he witnessed the Saigontel Green Alliance signing agreements with members of associations involved in semiconductor chip technology, high technology, and innovation, such as Context Labs, Semiconductor Industry Association, Corner Stones Group, E-mobility, and Solis Power. The purpose was to attract U.S. enterprises seeking to expand their operations in Vietnam to the proposed Innovation Center in Ho Chi Minh City's High-tech Park, as suggested by the Saigontel Green Alliance.

During this event, the World Bank and the National Small Business Association (NSBA) expressed their confidence and interest, with a letter of concern, in participating in the alliance to aid in implementing emission reduction roadmaps at various localities. Furthermore, the NSBA pledged support in the implementation of the innovation center in Ho Chi Minh City.

Regarding the Association and major businesses in the United States as partners, they co-organized and participated in the conference on November 16, 2023.

BUSINESS EXECUTIVES FOR NATIONAL SECURITY (BENS): Established in 1982, headquartered in Washington, D.C., BENS is a non-partisan, non-profit organization comprising top-level executives from leading businesses, leveraging expertise in the private sector to enhance the national security of the United States. BENS members represent various industries and enterprises, including technology, aerospace, defense, finance, healthcare, and energy.

US-ASEAN BUSINESS COUNCIL (US-ABC): Established in 1984, headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, the US-ABC is a non-profit organization representing nearly 175 corporate members, a majority of which are listed among the top 100 US companies by Fortune magazine. The member companies of the Council operate in diverse, dynamic, and highly influential sectors within the American economy.

SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATION (SIA): Established in 1977, headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, SIA is a trade association representing 99% of the US semiconductor industry by revenue and nearly two-thirds of chip manufacturers outside the United States. SIA's members consist of companies involved in semiconductor design, manufacturing, and sales, as well as those providing equipment and materials to the semiconductor industry, and companies utilizing semiconductors in their products.

CENTER OF STRATEGIC AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES (CSIS): Established in 1962, headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, it is a non-profit, non-partisan policy research organization dedicated to promoting practical ideas to address the world's greatest challenges.

NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (NSBA): Established in 1937, headquartered in Washington, D.C., USA, the NSBA is a non-profit, non-partisan organization representing the interests of long-standing small businesses and is the largest such organization in the United States, with over 65,000 members across all sectors and in over 50 states. NSBA fulfills its mission by providing small businesses with extensive resources and services, including advocacy programs, education, networking, and research.

AMPERE COMPUTING CORPORATION: Established in 2018, headquartered in Santa Clara, CA, Ampere is a semiconductor design company for the new era, pioneering high-performance, energy-efficient computing. Ampere is at the forefront of driving sustainable computing for the Cloud, AI inference, and applications.

Context Labs:Established in 2016, Context Labs utilizes artificial intelligence combined with precision mapping to optimize carbon credits for emission reduction projects.

Investment Promotion Department.

Infrastructure always plays a profoundly crucial role, serving as the backbone of socio-economic development. As the economy grows, the demand for infrastructure development increases. This is the outcome of investments that lay the foundation for comprehensive societal progress. In Vietnam's infrastructure development, seaports hold a pivotal role as the driving force for maritime economic development specifically and the nation's economy in general. They serve as gateways for importing and exporting goods, hubs for transitioning transportation methods from sea to rail, road, and inland waterway transport.

In the United States, the Port of Los Angeles (POLA), also known as the Los Angeles International Port, is a government-owned seaport complex that opened in 1907. Handling an annual cargo volume of 9.3 million TEUs and sprawling across 7,500 acres (3,000 hectares) with a shoreline stretching 43 miles (69 kilometers), the Port of Los Angeles stands as the largest seaport in the United States. Situated on San Pedro Bay, it lies approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of downtown Los Angeles. Adjacent to the Port of Los Angeles is the Port of Long Beach, collectively employing over 16,000 individuals. The Port of Los Angeles features a total of 80 docks and container terminals, including the largest container terminal in the U.S., APM Terminals Pier 400. Serving as a gateway for goods to and from Pacific Rim countries, the Port of Los Angeles facilitates trade with nations bordering the Pacific Ocean. Collaborating with the Port of Los Angeles presents significant opportunities for partners involved in port operations and management.

The signing ceremony held in San Francisco, USA, as part of the activities during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2023 High-Level Week, with President Võ Văn Thưởng, ministries, departments, and the local government of Los Angeles in attendance, marked a significant moment between the Port of Los Angeles, the city of Hai Phong, and a consortium of American and Vietnamese investors, including Saigontel Telecommunications Company (Saigontel) and Energy Capital Vietnam (ECV). All parties involved committed to cooperation, collaboration, and sharing best practices in developing the Nam Đồ Sơn comprehensive port, focusing on investment opportunities, administrative reforms, and information exchange to ensure the sustainability of the international seaport. Additionally, they aimed to promote mutual priorities related to sustainable financial investment and management, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency within the Nam Đồ Sơn Port Project. Furthermore, they outlined plans to develop and construct a green transport corridor between POLA and the Nam Đồ Sơn port to support future trade routes.

Succeeding the signing ceremony, a delegation from Hai Phong, led by Comrade Le Tien Chau, Central Committee member of the Party and Secretary of the Hai Phong City Party Committee, embarked on a visit to observe and learn from the experience of the Port of Los Angeles in the United States. During their working session, both parties shared insights regarding port management and operations, as well as exchanged views and directions for the future development of seaports.

The collaboration with leading and reputable partners from the US Government in port infrastructure brings expectations for development, positioning Hai Phong as a highly developed city among the top cities in Asia and the world. This aligns with the city's general plan until 2040 and its vision until 2050, which has been approved by the Prime Minister. It further emphasizes the cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the US after establishing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

Investment Promotion Department

The elevation of Vietnam - U.S. relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership marks a significant and positive turning point, providing substantial opportunities for U.S. businesses to enhance cooperation with Vietnamese enterprises and localities, particularly in areas where the United States has strengths, such as the semiconductor industry. Recently, on the sidelines of the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting held in San Francisco, USA, on the evening of November 15th (Vietnam time), Saigontel supported, facilitated, and organized a working session between the delegation of Thai Nguyen Provincial People's Committee leaders and the Semiconductor Industry Association of the United States (SIA).

During the working session, the Thai Nguyen Province representatives included Comrade Trinh Viet Hung, Member of the Central Party Committee (absent), Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, alongside representatives from departments, committees, sectors, and localities. The Semiconductor Industry Association of the United States (SIA) was represented by Mr. John Neuffer, President, CEO of the Association, and Mr. Mary Thornton, Vice President of Global Policy. The Green Alliance was represented by Ms. Nguyen Cam Phuong, General Director of Saigon Telecommunication Technology Joint Stock Company (Saigontel), and Mr. David Lewis, Chairman cum CEO of Energy Capital Vietnam (ECV).

In a spirit of open exchange and cooperation, Comrade Trinh Viet Hung expressed delight in meeting and exchanging experiences in the semiconductor industry and investment opportunities with SIA. The semiconductor industry is a sector in which Thai Nguyen Province holds significant potential, advantages, and is of particular interest to the province. With an investment-friendly environment, favorable geographical location, and ample industrial land reserves, Thai Nguyen Province aims to attract U.S. investors to the semiconductor industry within the region. The United States possesses strengths in the semiconductor industry, and following the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Thai Nguyen looks to SIA as a bridge to connect U.S. investors with investment opportunities in Thai Nguyen. The province is committed to creating the most favorable conditions for semiconductor industry investors to implement investment projects within its jurisdiction.

Thai Nguyen Province acknowledges Saigontel's collaboration in supporting and facilitating investment promotion with experienced partners, which has been instrumental in the province's development. The province hopes that Saigontel will continue this supportive role, standing by the province in attracting U.S. investors in the future. On this occasion, Thai Nguyen Province cordially invites Mr. John Neuffer and Mr. Mary Thornton to arrange a visit and working session with the province at their earliest convenience. This visit aims to further delineate specific objectives for investment promotion between the two parties.

Mr. John Neuffer, representing SIA, expressed immense pleasure in participating in the working session with Thai Nguyen Province and Vietnamese partners. He noted Vietnam's overall commitment to attracting investment, particularly Thai Nguyen Province's focused efforts to draw U.S. investors, especially those within the semiconductor industry. Following the elevation of both countries' relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, SIA and associated enterprises view this as an excellent opportunity to expand their business operations. The Association is particularly interested in Vietnam's investment environment, with Thai Nguyen Province being a key area of focus.

SIA also shared its experiences in the semiconductor industry and emphasized the need for the province to prepare infrastructure conditions, focus on workforce development, and establish a clear plan to attract U.S. investors. The President and CEO of SIA expressed gratitude to the province and Saigontel, ECV partners for their insights shared during the working session and accepted the invitation from Thai Nguyen Province's leadership. SIA commits to acting as a bridge for semiconductor manufacturing enterprises to explore and decide on implementing projects in Vietnam in general and Thai Nguyen Province in particular. This commitment aims to leverage the potential and advantages, delivering value, efficiency, and benefits to all parties involved.

Investment Promotion Department.

Accepting the invitation from Mr. Joe Biden - the U.S President, our President Võ Văn Thưởng, along with a high-level Vietnamese delegation, participate in the High-Level Week of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC) 2023, combined with bilateral activities in the United States. The APEC 2023 High-Level Week is scheduled to take place in San Francisco, the U.S, from November 11 to 17, 2023, featuring various events. Among them, a Roundtable Discussion connecting U.S. businesses with localities in Vietnam marks the collaboration and practical actions for the sustainable development of the regions.

The 30th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting kick off from November 11 to 17 in San Francisco, USA with the theme "Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All”. The year 2023 marks 30 years since the first APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting was held in the U.S (in 1993) and marks 25 years since Vietnam has joined APEC (in 1998).

The Meeting is focused on three priorities: “Interconnected” – Building a resilient and interconnected region that advances broad-based economic prosperity; “Innovative” – Working to enable an innovative environment for a sustainable future; and “Inclusive” – Affirming an equitable and inclusive future for all. "The Vietnamese delegation, led by President Võ Văn Thưởng, engages in several significant activities, such as participating in dialogues among APEC leaders and conducting bilateral interactions with leaders of APEC economies.

The President - Mr. Vo Van Thuong had a Speech in the Round Table Conference on Connecting U.S. Businesses with Vietnamese Localities

After elevating the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and the US to a Comprehensive Partnership for Peace, Cooperation, and Sustainable Development, the two countries have undertaken numerous activities to enhance comprehensive cooperation. During the Roundtable Discussion which was held on November 15th 2023 by the Ministry of Planning and Investment in San Francisco, aimed to connect U.S. businesses with localities in Vietnam. In the presence of the President, the Chairman of the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, representatives from the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, and the Green Alliance, a Memorandum of Understanding on coordinating research and analysis of emission reduction opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City was signed. Additionally, a Memorandum of Cooperation on researching, developing, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the transportation sector was also signed."

The President - Mr. Vo Van Thuong witnessed the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the Saigontel Green Alliance and the representatives of the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City

The Memorandum of Understanding acknowledges the commitment of the parties to support Ho Chi Minh City in researching technologies and developing pathways for low-emission and "net-zero" renewable energy sources, energy storage technologies, carbon capture and utilization technologies. It also commits to supporting relevant agencies and organizations within Ho Chi Minh City in promoting low-emission and "net-zero" emissions in the production of construction materials, developing green urban areas, eco-cities, green infrastructure, and sustainable urbanization. The parties further commit to developing agriculture in the direction of ecological agriculture, organic farming, low emissions, and "net-zero" emissions. The Green Alliance also pledges support for the city in developing a strategy to contribute to greenhouse gas reduction, identifying the causes of areas/sectors with significant emission sources.

In the collaboration for researching, developing, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the transportation sector, after signing the Memorandum of Understanding, the parties expect to propose innovative solutions for a smart city transportation initiative. This involves implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to enhance traffic management, reduce congestion, minimize emissions from transportation, introduce low-carbon transport solutions, optimize transportation infrastructure, and propose monitoring and emission reduction strategies for the city. 

In the presence of the President, the Saigontel Green Alliance along with the representatives of the People's Committee of Hưng Yên province carried out the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation.

Stimultaneously in San Francisco, under the witness of President Võ Văn Thưởng, the People's Committee of Hưng Yên Province, the Green Alliance, a Memorandum of Understanding on coordinating research and analysis of opportunities for net emission reduction in Hưng Yên Province was signed. The parties acknowledge their commitment to supporting Hưng Yên in achieving green growth objectives. These objectives include researching technologies and developing pathways for low-emission renewable energy sources, promoting emission reduction in the transportation sector, developing agriculture in the direction of ecological agriculture, organic farming, low emissions, protecting and restoring resources, and developing natural ecosystems.

Investment Promotion Department.

On October 31, in Hanoi, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi (AmCham), and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington jointly organized the 6th US-Vietnam Business Summit to enhance trade and business relations between the two countries.

The conference marks the opportunities from the decision to elevate the relationship between the two countries to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership following the recent visit of President J. Biden. Attending the conference in person from Vietnam were Deputy Prime Minister - Mr. Tran Luu Quang and senior leaders from central ministries and agencies. From the United States, United States secretary of commerce - Ms. Gina Raimondo and Mr. Kurt Campbell - the National Security Council Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, participated online. Representing one of Vietnam's major enterprises at the conference was Mr. Dang Thanh Tam - Chairman of Saigon Investment Group (SGI) and Chairman of Saigon Telecommunication & Technologies Corporation (SAIGONTEL).

Deputy Prime Minister - Mr. Tran Luu Quang had a speech at the conference

In the speech at the conference, Deputy Prime Minister - Mr. Tran Luu Quang suggested: “Both sides should continue to prioritize and allocate resources to realize the commitments in the joint statement on upgrading the relationship between the two countries. Businesses on both sides need to vigorously promote economic and trade cooperation, enhance the import and export of each other's strengths, and mutually support deeper participation in new supply chains, contributing to the expansion of global supply chains in Vietnam, including in supporting industries. Strive to achieve a trade turnover of $200 billion in the near future”.

According to the conference agenda, discussions focused on addressing bottlenecks in resource mobilization, production, and business; meeting the demand for energy development and promoting the transition to clean and renewable energy; ensuring access, affordability, and innovation in the healthcare sector; harnessing the full potential of the digital economy; upgrading from a near-border market to an emerging market; and promoting sustainable investment and supply chain integration, such as preparing for opportunities in the semiconductor industry.

Mr. Dang Thanh Tam - Chairman of Saigontel shared in the first discussion session on the path to Net-Zero.

In the first discussion session, Mr. Dang Thanh Tam - Chairman of Saigontel shared insights on the path to Net Zero: renewable energy, carbon reduction solutions, and essential infrastructure needed to implement this direction. The journey towards Net Zero is a long one, and the advantages of businesses actively transitioning to green will become increasingly clear. It is no longer voluntary but has become a mandatory condition for global market participation. As a leading industrial development group in Vietnam, Saigontel has initiated green transition activities. Specifically, for existing industrial parks, the company plans to gradually transition by installing rooftop solar energy. For new industrial parks, it will collaborate with international partners to develop emission reduction plans.

Communication Department.

On the afternoon of October 29th, Former President - Mr. Truong Tan Sang; Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee of Long An, Chairman of the Provincial People's Council of Long An - Mr. Nguyen Van Duoc; Chairman of the People's Committee of Long An Province - Nguyen Van Ut; Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Long An Province - Nguyen Minh Lam, and Huynh Van Son, along with the leaders of the Departments of Construction, Natural Resources and Environment, Planning and Investment, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee of Can Giuoc District, Chairman of the People's Committee of Can Giuoc District, and relevant departments, visited on the Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park and the Nam Tan Tap Resettlement Area project.

The Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park received the Prime Minister's approval for investment direction in Decision No. 1420/QD-TTg, dated August 20, 2021, and Decision No. 9267/QD-UBND, dated September 22, 2021, of the People's Committee of Long An Province on the establishment of the Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park in Tan Tap commune, Can Giuoc district, with Saigontel Long An Company Limited - a member of Saigontel as the investor.

During the working session, Former President - Mr. Truong Tan Sang, and provincial leaders received a progress report on the project implementation schedule of the Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park and the Nam Tan Tap Resettlement Area in Can Giuoc district. They also discussed the difficulties and proposed solutions to overcome them. The project affects 1,498 households, covering an area of 158.56 hectares, with compensation of approximately 2,112 billion VND. Presently, the project has cleared over 73.6% of the land area (including public land and agreed-upon areas). The Nam Tan Tap Resettlement Area project invested by Saigontel Long An Company Limited which is located in Tan Tap commune. The People's Committee of Can Giuoc district has issued a notice to recover land with a total area of over 22.4 hectares. As of now, the project has essentially completed the boundary demarcation and census work.

Former President - Mr. Truong Tan Sang along with leadership of Long An Province and Can Giuoc Distric visited on the Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park and the Nam Tan Tap Resettlement Area project

Based on the visiting, former President Truong Tan Sang expressed the desire for the leadership of Long An province, provincial departments, and Can Giuoc district to accelerate land clearance efforts. This would enable the investor to proceed with the implementation of the Nam Tan Tap Industrial Park project promptly, facilitating its operation, attracting investment, and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Long An province and specifically Can Giuoc district.

During the working session, Former President - Mr. Truong Tan Sang emphasized the need for close collaboration between SAIGONTEL and the local authorities in developing a high-quality workforce, dedicating resources to gain a competitive advantage. In the process of attracting investment, it is crucial for SAIGONTEL to work closely with the local community to develop a high-quality workforce, willing to allocate resources to create a competitive advantage and attract high-tech corporations. According to statistics, Vietnam's labor force is approximately 55 million people, with an annual average of 1.5-1.6 million young people in the working age group needing to upgrade their professional qualifications to meet international integration requirements. Therefore, SAIGONTEL, as the entity responsible for industrial infrastructure development and attracting direct FDI, is required to collaborate with local authorities to establish training programs, upgrade workforce skills, and contribute to improving income levels and living standards for the local population.

Delegates attended the working session after the survey

Accepting the directive from the Former Leadership, Saigontel Group along with its partners include the National Agency for Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Development (NATEC), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Valey Campus Saigon Company (VCS - Japan), and the provincial leaders of Long An which are collaboratively incorporating opinions and working together to formulate the project.

It's known that SAIGONTEL – NATEC and ADB are currently comprehensive strategic partners in developing open innovation, including human resource development. SAIGONTEL plays the role of an investment attraction, connecting domestic and international resources to jointly develop the project. NATEC, with its mission assigned by the Ministry of Science and Technology, supports the development of science and technology enterprises in Vietnam and promotes the development of Vietnamese resources to meet global integration goals. The Asian Development Bank (ADB), experienced in implementing open innovation human resource development projects in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, will serve as the consulting organization to build and implement the initiative. Additionally, ADB will provide financial support during the project preparation and ODA loans if conditions are met.

During the working session, the representative from VCS Japan also shared insights into the workforce training model in high-tech agriculture. This model aims to produce high-quality agricultural products in Vietnam for export to Japan. Furthermore, the program involves training high-tech agricultural engineers on-site and sending them to Japan for further education and work opportunities if desired. VCS will collaborate with the province to train IT engineers according to Japanese standards in the near future.

In conclusion, Former President - Mr. Truong Tan Sang proposed that all parties focus immediately on three human resource areas within the semiconductor manufacturing industry: 4.0 AI technology, IoT, and environmental technology. The expectation is that the workforce in these sectors will bring breakthroughs for Long An in attracting high-tech investment, enhancing the capacity to absorb and apply science and technology, fostering local innovation, and timely supplementing the necessary resources for the country. This is closely tied to the current development requirements of the country and contributes to the sustainable development of the entire Mekong Delta region.

To achieve this goal, teaching and learning platforms also need to be upgraded and expanded to provide more opportunities for workers to access knowledge. Additionally, training curricula and educational facilities should be adequately equipped to create conditions for workers to have more opportunities for practical experience and access to practical scientific and technical knowledge, thereby enhancing their skills. 

On the morning of October 29, Saigon Telecommunication and Technology Corporation (Saigontel), together with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Valey Campus Saigon Company (VCS), held a working session with the People's Committee of Long An Province on the issue of training and developing the province's human resources to achieve green growth goals.

Welcoming the working delegation, representatives from the People's Committee of Long An Province included Mr. Pham Tan Hoa, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee, along with leaders from local departments and agencies. The meeting was attended by representatives from the National Agency for Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Development (NATEC), leaders of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation, Saigon Telecommunication and Technology Corporation (Saigontel), and Valey Campus Saigon Company (VCS).

Working session between Long An People’s Committee, Saigontel, NATEC, ADB and VCS

At the working session, Saigontel representatives provided consultancy and proposed a plan for the province's human resources development program. They conducted a preliminary assessment of the current state of the province's workforce, noting its abundance but acknowledging the need for higher quality. The proportion of individuals with degrees or certificates was observed to be low, and there was a shortage of technically skilled and highly skilled workers for industrial and agricultural development. As a result, the proposed solutions included updating training programs based on the needs of high-tech businesses, emphasizing the incorporation of knowledge and green skills into the curriculum. The plan also suggested creating an interactive learning environment, fostering technology access, encouraging research, and innovation. Additionally, the proposal highlighted the importance of training and enhancing the quality of educators, emphasizing international partnerships, and ensuring quality through evaluation. The aim is to establish an environment that encourages research and innovation among students to enhance the quality of the province's workforce.

Next, NATEC representatives introduced the Open Innovation Center and the strategy to attract international resources for developing the open innovation ecosystem, fostering green skills and entrepreneurship innovation skills for Vietnamese labor, including the workforce in Long An province.

From the side of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Mr. Sung Sup Ra – ADB Deputy Director General, presented projects supporting education and vocational training worldwide and in Vietnam. ADB and Saigontel will explore and provide local support in updating training programs for specific industries such as the environment, high-tech agriculture, and renewable energy—industries identified as local needs but lacking vocational training facilities.

During the working session, representatives from Valey Campus Saigon introduced a model for training high-tech agricultural labor in a practical environment and an information technology workforce training program following Japanese standards.

At the end of the meeting, Mr. Pham Tan Hoa - Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, expressed joy and gratitude for the delegation's visit and committed to cooperating in implementing the discussed initiatives for green growth. They agreed on the importance of ensuring regional connectivity, especially with neighboring provinces such as Ho Chi Minh City, Tien Giang, and Dong Thap, to create a collaborative bloc for producing better and more efficient products. To actualize the discussed initiatives, the Vice Chairman proposed forming expert teams to exchange and build a roadmap, identifying steps for each year to achieve the goals as quickly as possible.

Communication Department.

Following the directive of the Prime Minister in the official letter No. 5845/VPCP-KGVX dated August 01, 2023, from the Government Office, the Ministry of Planning and Investment is tasked with organizing the Vietnam International Innovation Expo 2023 (VIIE2023) at the new National Innovation Center - Hoa Lac High-tech Park (NIC Hoa Lac). The event starts from October 28, 2023, to November 01, 2023, showcasing the futuristic landscape of technology from leading domestic and international innovative technology enterprises.

Specifically, on the morning of October 28, at the inauguration ceremony of the National Innovation Center (NIC) in Hoa Lac and the opening of the Vietnam International Innovation Expo 2023 (VIIE 2023), Mr. Pham Minh Chinh - Prime Minister, Mr. Le Hoai Trung - Secretary of Party Central Committee, Director of CPV Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations, and leaders from various ministries, departments, central and local agencies, research institutes, universities, domestic and international corporations, investment funds, embassies, international organizations, innovation support organizations, students, intellectuals, and relevant individuals attended the event.

Welcoming Prime Minister - Mr. Pham Minh Chinh and the Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee of Dong Nai Province, Mr. Nguyen Hong Linh, to visit the Saigontel booth.

Following the invitation of the Ministry of Planning and Investment, Saigontel conduct expo booth with partners from the Green Infrastructure Development Alliance in the National Innovation Center. Under the theme "Saigontel's Green Growth Journey," the alliance along with its green bus that takes visitors on a tour of various exhibition stands, offering experiences related to the Green Growth Journey through interesting stops. These stations include the Green Growth, Low-Carbon Industrial Infrastructure, Green Transportation, and optional visits to stations focused on green agriculture, eco-friendly materials, etc. which depend on the visitor's interest. Moreover, this is an opportunity for Saigontel to share information with partners and organization about the model of Low-Carbon Industrial Parks being pilot-tested in Vietnam. This model is applied to build a green production ecosystem and a circular economy, emphasizing resource efficiency and energy savings through a foundation of science and technology, digital applications, and digital transformation. This contributes to enhancing competitiveness and minimizing environmental impact.

Under the witness of Prime Minister - Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, the Saigontel Green Growth Alliance donated some electrices bus to Dong Nai Province and the Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC) in the framework of green growth project.

Beside of the inauguration of NIC Hoa Lac and the opening of VIIE2023, Saigontel's expo booth hosted a ceremony to give a memorandum of understanding for sponsoring electric buses for Dong Nai Province and the Vietnam National Innovation Center. This sponsorship not only helps reduce emissions through green transportation in the province but also introduces a green investment model where carbon credits from the project serve as collateral for green credit. This approach is the most effective solution for large corporations and companies using the credit offset mechanism. It directly benefits residents, workers, and students in the province, aligning with the government's commitment to reducing net emissions. This initiative serves as evidence that emission reduction requires support in awareness, specific solutions, and implementation methods, rather than being hindered by investment capital constraints.

Communication Department.

On October 27th, Hepza Businesses Association (HBA) successfully organized the seminar "Manufacturing Enterprises and Sustainable Development Trends." SAIGONTEL, not only a key sponsor of the program but also actively participated in sharing its vision, direction, and methods for greening existing industrial parks.

In the opening speech, Mr. Dao Xuan Duc, Chairman of HBA, stated that the seminar aimed to provide useful information to the business community in export processing zones, industrial parks, and high-tech zones in Ho Chi Minh City about sustainable development trends worldwide and in Vietnam. The event facilitated the exchange of experiences and successful solutions that some domestic and foreign enterprises have applied in their journey toward sustainable business activities.

Mr. Dao Xuan Duc – Chairman of Hepza Businesses Association (HBA) had the opening speech

According to experts join in the program and representatives of businesses, the world is increasingly adopting ESG criteria (Environmental, Social, and Governance) in their operations. Many companies are making continuous efforts to reduce carbon emissions and waste, responsibly source inputs to meet ESG criteria, which are becoming increasingly important in the eyes of investors and consumers.

Mr. Ho Anh Tung – Saigontel Green Infrastructure Development Alliance representative shared in the discussion session of program.

Within the framework of the seminar, during the discussion session, Mr. Ho Anh Tung - Representative of the Green Infrastructure Development Alliance Saigontel, shared more details about the mission and goals of the Alliance in developing green industrial parkss according to the global Net-Zero standards. This means industrial parks with the ability to self-supply energy from renewable sources, emit no carbon, and efficiently use high resources. This is an important and necessary goal in the context of climate change and Vietnam's sustainable development needs. Saigontel Alliance aims to contribute to the implementation of Vietnam's commitments at COP26, namely reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 9% compared to the reference scenario by 2030 and possibly reducing an additional 27% with international community support.

Additionally, regarding the roadmap and efficiency of green shifting for existing industrial parks, Saigontel Green Alliance will apply a three-stage approach: Stage 1, assess the current situation and determine carbon emission reduction targets for each industrial park. Use analysis and measurement tools to estimate the current carbon emissions of industrial parks based on parameters such as area, number of businesses, operational industries, types and quantities of energy usage, types and quantities of generated waste. Then, define emission reduction targets for each stage, complying with international standards such as the Science Based Targets initiative or the Carbon Disclosure Project. Stage 2, select and implement green transformation solutions for each industrial park, providing energy technology solutions and green technical infrastructure. Stage 3, mobilize green funding sources and monitor implementation results. Investment efficiency will be calculated based on criteria such as capital costs, operating costs, energy savings, risk reduction, and enhanced credibility.

Communication Department.