European Commissioner for Entrepreneurship, Research, and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva. (Source: European Union in Vietnam)

Prior to the visit, Zaharieva assessed Vietnam as a dynamic innovation partner with strong ambitions for development in science and technology, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and a high-quality workforce.

According to her, the EU aims to enhance cooperation with Vietnam in the fields of science, technology, research, and innovation; while also supporting researchers, startups, and creating more cooperation opportunities for the business communities on both sides.

During the visit, Commissioner Zaharieva will introduce the Horizon Europe program, the EU's flagship funding program for research and innovation, and promote new cooperation and investment opportunities between European and Vietnamese researchers, businesses, and innovation organizations.

During the visit, both sides are expected to sign a Letter of Intent between the European Commission (representing the EU) and the Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.

The Letter of Intent will establish a framework to enhance research capacity, expand exchanges under the Horizon Europe program and other research initiatives, support researcher mobility, improve institutional capacity, and facilitate joint training and research initiatives.

Commissioner Zaharieva will also hold meetings with senior Vietnamese partners to discuss strategic priorities and the implementation of the EU-Vietnam partnership in science and innovation.

Following the European Group approach, including the EU and its member states, Zaharieva is expected to meet with representatives of the European business community, Vietnamese businesses, and the startup ecosystem to discuss technological challenges, investment opportunities, and growth based on innovation.

The EU affirms its readiness to expand support for Vietnam's green transition and digital transformation, while promoting investment cooperation in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, 5G, space technology, and cybersecurity.