(MPI) - Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc on August 13 attended the inauguration the science, technology and engineering center of the US’s 3M corporation in Vietnam.

The inauguration the science, technology and engineering center of the US’s 3M corporation in Vietnam. Photo: MPI

Attending the inauguration were U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper, Amit Laroya, 3M’s Senior Vice President for Asia - Transportation and Electronics and representatives from the US-ASEAN Business Council and Vietnamese authorities.

Deputy Minister Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc remarked that the event not only marks the establishment of 3M’s center but also signifies a concrete result of Vietnam’s journey towards becoming a global hub for innovation.

She emphasised that Vietnam views science, technology, and innovation as drivers for economic growth, reform, and a means to escape the ‘middle-income trap” and catch up and move forward with developed nations.

The establishment of 3M’s science, technology and engineering center today is a proof to Vietnam gradually becoming a destination for high-tech, innovative projects, research and development in the region.

This event also symbolises the growing cooperation between Vietnam and the US since the historic upgrade of the two countries’ relations to the comprehensive strategic partnership in September 2023.

The US is Vietnam’s second-largest trading partner and one of its top export markets, being a significant ODA sponsor and the 11th biggest investor among 145 countries and territories. Vietnam hopes that US investors, including 3M will continue to expand their investment activities and specific projects in Vietnam, enhancing cooperation and development of the two nations in the future.

Deputy Minister Bich Ngoc asked the newly-established center and the MPI’s National Innovation Centre (NIC) will have effective collaborations by leveraging each other’s strengths.

U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper, congratulated 3M on its achievements, adding that 3M’s investment in Vietnam strongly affirms the constructive role businesses can play in advancing scientific and technological cooperation.

He believed that the 3M center will significantly contribute to fostering innovation and promoting progress and prosperity for both nations, including commitments to economic growth, technological advancement, and sustainable development.

Amit Laroya, 3M’s Senior Vice President for Asia - Transportation and Electronics, stated that 3M’s mission is to drive, enhance, and improve lives through science and innovation. This aligns with Vietnam’s goal to develop a semiconductor industry ecosystem, deepening economic ties between the U.S. and Vietnam.

Amit hailed the dynamism of Vietnam’s economy and committed to continuing contributions to its development. He also expressed confidence in the future and the opportunities it brings, with 3M poised to foster shared prosperity and create a brighter, more innovative, and sustainable future for Vietnam./.

Bao Linh

Ministry of Planning and Investment