Digital future: Dong Thap secures its innovation lead!

Digital future: Dong Thap secures its innovation lead!

On May 23, 2025, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) held a major conference in Dong Thap Province to solicit opinions on a draft resolution on the development of the digital economy. This initiative aims to create an innovative and knowledge-based society that aims to bring about essential changes in the socio-economic landscape. The aim of the event was to bring together experts, academic specialists and company representatives to discuss concrete solutions and perspectives for digital transformation. The conference was chaired by the head of the ministry, who emphasized the importance of these issues.

The conference was particularly focused on the implementation of Plan No. 309-KH/TU of January 20, 2025, which is related to the conclusions of Secretary-General To Lam. The draft resolution focuses on digital economy, innovation and the promotion of science and technology activities as key resources for development. In order to guarantee the comprehensive development of the digital economy, three main pillars have been defined: digital technology, digital platform economy and the integration of the digital economy into various industries.

Important objectives of the resolution

The main objectives set out in the resolution include strengthening research and innovation capacities in both the public and private sectors. Particular attention will be paid to fostering connections between government, science and business and creating an effective science and technology ecosystem. Challenges such as developing digital economic infrastructure and improving human resources to increase competitiveness in key industries were also addressed.

Progress in Dong Thap Province's digital economy is promising, particularly in agriculture, industry, e-commerce and tourism. According to Ms. Nguyen Lam Thanh Thuy, director of the Ministry of Science and Technology, digital economy and innovation are crucial for sustainable development not only in Dong Thap but worldwide.

Scientific and technological cooperation between Germany and China

Another important aspect in science and technology development is the long-standing cooperation between Germany and China. Since 1978, both countries have been working closely together in the areas of science and technology, particularly in the fields of Industry 4.0, environment and sustainability, and electromobility. The central partners are the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) in Germany, and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) in China.

German and Chinese science policy plays a key role in national development in both Germany and China. This is illustrated by various strategy papers, such as the 13th Five-Year Plan and “Made in China 2025”. Both countries have made significant progress through a high innovation capacity supported by comprehensive research funding. Close cooperation also takes place via the German-Chinese Center for Science Promotion in Beijing, where joint research projects are funded.

The intensive cooperation is also supported by joint declarations on topics such as climate research and intelligent manufacturing, which were signed between the respective ministries in 2018. Scientific organizations such as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Fraunhofer Society show the deep roots and high status of science in the German-Chinese dialogue.

Both the developments in Dong Thap and the international collaborations show how important science, technology and innovation are for global economic and social development.