Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh officially designated October 1 annually as Vietnam Innovation Day, aimed at honoring and promoting innovation while celebrating the contributions of innovators.

In his remarks today, Prime Minister Chinh shared his vision for the event, stating that under the theme "Innovate to Breakthrough and Create for a Sustainable Future in the Digital Age," this day will serve as a gathering of the human intellect, fostering benefits for all.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the event. Photos: NIC

He highlighted significant achievements in innovation across various sectors, noting that different levels of government and localities have successfully implemented strategies to drive progress, resulting in impressive outcomes.

"The country stands at a crossroads of significant opportunities and challenges in science, technology, and innovation," the Prime Minister added, addressing the urgent issue of technological competitiveness. He emphasized that Vietnamese companies have yet to fully master advanced technologies, particularly in critical areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing.

Chinh highlighted that innovation is vital for enhancing productivity, quality, efficiency, and competitiveness across the economy.

He outlined three key principles for fostering innovation: it should be a strategic choice and a top priority for sustainable development; it must place people and businesses at the center of efforts; and it should encourage bold thinking and risk-taking for the greater national interest.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister proposed several strategic solutions, including improving institutional frameworks, investing in infrastructure, enhancing human resources, attracting financial investments, and strengthening international cooperation.

"The institutions must be transparent, infrastructure seamless, governance intelligent, and international collaboration effective," he concluded.

NIC - a leader in innovation

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other delegates attend the event.

At the event, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stated that the establishment of the National Innovation Center (NIC) under Decision No. 1269/QD-TTg on October 2, 2019, reflects the Party and State's commitment to promoting science, technology, and innovation. The NIC operates with unique mechanisms and policies that are competitive with regional and international standards.

"The primary goal of the NIC is to create a favorable environment for innovation and startups, attract investment, and promote the development of high-tech and digital technologies, as well as green transformation," said Chinh.

After five years since its inception and one year since the inauguration of its center, the NIC has made significant progress in infrastructure, institutional development, and policy enhancements. It has continuously refined high-level incentives and administrative procedures in accordance with legal regulations, he added.

The Prime Minister recognized the efforts and contributions of the NIC, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, various government levels, development partners, the business community, investors, and experts in boosting Vietnam's reputation in science, technology, and innovation both regionally and internationally.

Chính directed the Ministry of Planning and Investment to lead efforts in further promoting the NIC's role, strengthening international cooperation, and expanding networks of innovation experts and scientists, prioritizing national interests and contributing to goals of peace, stability, collaboration, and development worldwide.

At the event, the NIC announced partnerships with several organizations, including NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Dassault Systems, Intel, SemiSEA, and ViSemi. These collaborations aim to enhance talent development in AI, semiconductors, and smart manufacturing, as well as promote innovation through initiatives such as the annual semiconductor expo.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung and other delegates visit booths displaying innovative products at the event.