On January 13, in Hanoi, the Politburo and the Secretariat of the Party Central Committee held a national conference on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, with 15,345 online participants across the country and live coverage on VTV1 channel of Vietnam Television.
The conference aimed to assess the implementation of resolutions of the Party Central Committee, the Politburo, and the Secretariat on the development of science and technology; promulgate and deploy Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW dated December 22, 2024, of the Politburo on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, creating a breakthrough in awareness and implementation, contributing to the country’s prosperous and powerful development in the new era – the era of national advancement.
General Secretary To Lam attended and directed the conference at the Central level.
“Comrades, leaders, and former leaders of the Party, State, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front.
Intellectuals, scientists, entrepreneurs, and all delegates attending the conference at the Central Hall and the online meeting points.
On May 18, 1963, at the historic Ba Dinh Hall, the First Congress of the Vietnam Association for Science and Technology Popularization was held, marking an important event in the history of science and technology in our country. At the Congress, President Ho Chi Minh emphasized the importance of popularizing science and technology, considering it the driving force for national construction and development. He instructed: “Science and technology must be linked to production and serve the people.” This event laid the foundation for the development of science and technology to serve the industrialization and modernization of the country.
More than six decades later, today, the Second National Conference is being held, with a new scale and stature, reflecting the determination of the entire political system and the country in promoting the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
As we know, science and technology are the key driving force for the miraculous economic growth of many countries. The success stories of the United States, China, Germany, Japan, and more recently, India, Ireland, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore have proven the role of science and technology. These countries have utilized technology to transform their economic models, boost labor productivity, and enhance global competitiveness.
With the goal of becoming a modern industrialized country by 2030 and a developed and high-income country by 2045, we must consider science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as the key drivers. This is the “golden key” and the critical factor for escaping the middle-income trap and the risk of falling behind, while realizing the aspirations for a strong and prosperous nation. However, the development of science, technology, and digital transformation is only a “means” to achieve the ultimate goal. Breakthroughs and innovations are the magical elements that create miracles, as they bring about revolutionary advancements, break through barriers and current limitations, and achieve outstanding and prominent results. Breakthroughs always bring novelty, effectiveness, and influence (for example, in technology: the advent of smartphones has changed the way people communicate and work; in economics: business models based on digital platforms such as Uber, Airbnb, and e-commerce are breakthroughs for traditional industries; CRISPR gene editing technology is a breakthrough in biology, medicine, and agriculture; in society, reforms in education, healthcare, literature, and art policies are bringing about significant changes in people’s quality of life)
Resolution 57 of the Politburo has outlined strategic orientations, and has been supported by cadres, party members, scientists, and the business community at home and abroad, as a “quota 10” in the field of science and technology. This support demonstrates the strong development aspirations and determination of our nation. Today’s conference reflects the sense of responsibility and unity of the entire Party and political system. With careful preparation, we strongly believe that breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation will be the key to taking our country further on the path of realizing our development aspirations.
Comrades and delegates,
Our Party and State always consider science and technology as a decisive factor and the foundation for the country’s sustainable development. Since the Fourth Congress, science and technology have been identified as a revolution, and now, as a top national policy. Many important resolutions such as Resolution 20, Resolution 52, and Resolution 36 have been issued, contributing positively to the country’s development as it is today. However, looking at it comprehensively, seriously, and objectively, the implementation of the Central Committee’s resolutions has not achieved the set goals, nor has it met expectations and development requirements.
There are still many shortcomings, limitations, barriers, and bottlenecks hindering the development of science and technology, as mentioned in the report, ranging from institutions, mechanisms, policies, and laws to resources and means (scientists spend too much time, about 50% of their time and effort, on administrative procedures; research topics lack breakthroughs and measurable results; limited resources for science and technology, with R&D investment accounting for less than 0.7% of GDP, while the average for developed countries is 2%, and some reach 5%; not daring to accept risks in research, inability to commercialize products, and in many cases, conducting research as a form of “disguised economy”)…
The main reason for the lack of success in implementing the Central Committee’s resolutions lies in the implementation phase. Resolution 57 does not replace previous resolutions, but can be considered a “Resolution on Liberating Scientific Thinking,” a “Resolution for Implementing Resolutions,” and a “Resolution for Action,” with very specific goals, changing the way we think and work, to realize the guidelines, remove barriers, and unleash capabilities to promote breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, creating a strong foundation for the country’s development in the new era.
How can we effectively and promptly turn the Resolution into reality? All levels, sectors, and localities must get down to work without delay. The guidelines and solutions must be quickly institutionalized and prioritized in resource allocation for implementation.
In that sense, I propose to continue studying, improving, and deepening some viewpoints and orientations as follows:
First, on viewpoints: Always uphold the view that investing in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation is a long-term strategy, accepting delays and risks in implementation. Consider this as an investment, and investments entail wins and losses. View data as a new resource, the “air and light” of the new era, and a new means of production; digital transformation is a tool to innovate production and business methods, and to renew the productive forces. Innovation is the “magic wand” to achieve sustainable prosperity, with scientists at the center.
Breakthroughs must be pursued in both natural and social sciences, as they are vast spaces with many untapped opportunities for intellectuals, scientists, and workers to turn “stones into bread.” However, for now, we should focus on the following fields: Physics and energy (quantum mechanics for applications such as microprocessors, lasers, and nano…); information and communication technology; medicine and biology (DNA, genes, vaccines, 3D…); space technology; materials technology, energy, and environment (renewable energy, lithium-ion batteries, carbon capture and storage…); inventions in daily life (3D, robotics and automation, virtual reality – VR and augmented reality – AR); blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT); geospatial information; digital culture analysis; online education and training…
We need to shift from technology application and mastery to building breakthrough innovation capabilities, seizing opportunities from the Fourth Industrial Revolution to “shortcut and lead” the future. The implementation of the Resolution must focus on practical issues that the country is facing and what the market and the economy need. Research products must be commercialized and copyrighted.
In terms of action, it is necessary to clarify what the State, enterprises, intellectuals, and scientists should do, and how the people will benefit. The State needs to focus on four tasks: (1) Perfecting the institutions and laws to achieve breakthroughs and development, (2) Building infrastructure to serve breakthroughs, (3) Developing abundant human resources with sufficient intelligence and capacity for breakthroughs, and (4) Ensuring information data security, secrecy, and intellectual property rights, safeguarding national sovereignty, and promoting independent development.
With that in mind, I propose and emphasize the following eight tasks and solutions, especially the breakthrough tasks:
First, unify the perception and action: Determine that the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation is the strategic task of the entire Party, people, and army. The Central level has set an example with the accompanying Program of Action, which is being promulgated today. The Party committees and authorities need to concretize the Resolution through practical plans, using the implementation results as criteria for evaluating emulation and commendation. All tasks will be supervised and evaluated regularly; good performance will be commended, while slow or faulty performance will be criticized and handled. Ineffective and irresponsible leaders will be replaced immediately, not letting the country miss development opportunities. Party committees, authorities, and units need to make specific plans, closely following the goals of Resolution 57, with clear tasks, specific assignments, timelines, and measurable results. In 2025, we need to choose and address very fundamental issues, creating a foundation for the 2026-2030 period, providing a boost to labor productivity and building trust in society.
Second, promptly improve the institutions and policies: In 2025, as soon as possible, complete the amendment, supplementation, or promulgation of new legal regulations, mechanisms, and policies to remove obstacles and barriers to the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, maximizing creativity, encouraging daring to think, dare to do, and dare to take responsibility (any regulations that need to be removed should be removed, and any laws that need to be amended should be amended promptly, with a spirit of flexibility and consistency, with one content regulated by only one law. We need a new mindset and approach in amending the Law on Information Technology, the Law on Science and Technology, the Law on State Budget, the Law on Management and Use of Public Assets, and the Law on Civil Servants, harmonizing related legal regulations). We encourage dynamic and creative people, daring to think and daring to act, first and foremost, through legal regulations, creating a space for managers to decide and take responsibility.
The Politburo has oriented the innovation of legal drafting procedures to ensure flexibility and effectiveness, and this spirit will be institutionalized in the Law on Amendment of the Law on Promulgation of Legal Documents, expected to be passed soon by the National Assembly. The Party Committee of the Government needs to coordinate with the Party Delegation of the National Assembly to direct the timely development of 27 laws and 19 decrees in 2025, ensuring the institutionalization of Resolution 57 of the Politburo and the early issuance of guiding documents so that the new regulations can be put into practice soon. The improvement of institutions must go hand in hand with effective implementation, with a mechanism for strict supervision and evaluation, especially for the team of officials in charge. Immediately eliminate the situation of “carpet-rolling from above, nail-scattering from below” and eliminate the mindset of term limits, jealousy, or egalitarianism.
Third, promptly rearrange the apparatus for science and technology: In the first quarter of 2025, complete the rearrangement of science and technology organizations; focus on investing in key areas to develop strong research institutions. Have a specific plan to build a high-quality human resource, especially scientific and technological talents. Implement breakthrough solutions to attract leading technology corporations and attract technology talents who are Vietnamese and foreigners to work. The procedures related to this issue must be truly more open, even highly competitive compared to other countries, to attract talent. Consider removing business conditions that are no longer suitable for the new requirements of Resolution 57. The State may choose to pilot some institutes or schools to invite experts from outside to take leadership positions, especially in the community of overseas Vietnamese, those who understand Vietnamese culture, grew up in developed countries, are knowledgeable in their fields, and have strong international connections. In the past, they did not dare to return because we were not really ready, and there were many administrative barriers and regulations, making it very difficult to manage. Now, everything will be much smoother.
Consider forming a mechanism for a Chief Architect or General Contractor for the implementation of large-scale projects and programs in science, technology, and digital transformation involving multiple sectors; Establish a National Institute for Standards and Testing for research, testing, evaluation, and certification of products and services.
The State should facilitate the establishment of private research institutes, provide procedural support, encourage through tax and credit incentives, allow the invitation of foreign experts to work, and create all favorable conditions for their operation. (Recently, some large technology corporations intended to invest in Vietnam, but the procedures were too cumbersome, entangled in many things, and took years to implement). This issue must be reviewed for strong reform from 2025.
Fourth, prioritize the budget allocation for science and technology worthy of being a breakthrough national policy: Allocate the budget for science and technology, R&D, establish science and technology funds, encourage the formation of venture capital funds, angel funds, startup funds, innovation funds, etc. Study the mechanism for the “public investment – private management” model, ensuring that scientists have autonomy in research and technology application. In 2025, the first year of implementing Resolution 57, the Government needs to innovate in planning the budget for the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, proposing that the Government allocate at least 3% of the budget for this task and continue to increase the proportion of spending on science and technology to 2% of GDP in the next 5 years. Soon announce this policy and provide convenient guidance on procedures. Review, adjust projects and programs to ensure alignment with Resolution 57, avoid wastefulness, and focus on effective and prioritized investment. At the same time, thoroughly reform the process of allocating, managing, and settling expenses, eliminating the “begging – granting” mechanism and cumbersome procedures to optimize resources and encourage creativity.
Fifth, quickly develop high-quality human resources: Promulgate mechanisms to attract talents in general, especially scientific and technological talents, talents among overseas Vietnamese, and international experts, with attractive policies on citizenship, income, housing, and working environment. Related procedures must be open, attractive, and competitive internationally. Build a network of domestic and international experts, regularly report results to the Central Steering Committee. Promote the movement of honoring talents and creativity, arousing the spirit of patriotism and dedication of scientists. Continue to maintain the lifelong learning movement and reform the education and training system, focusing on postgraduate, undergraduate, and vocational education.
Sixth, increase investment in technological infrastructure, including digital technology: Prioritize the construction and completion of infrastructure as mentioned in Resolution 57. In particular, it is necessary to prepare an energy infrastructure for the next 5-10 years, focusing on clean energy, ensuring sufficient energy for development through specific actions. Optimize and upgrade digital infrastructure, build 5G base stations, expand broadband Internet access and optical fiber coverage. Develop low-orbit high-speed satellite systems. Build a National Data Center and implement the Data Law and the Data Exchange Floor in 2025. In 2025, the Party Committee of the Government needs to direct the review and supplement of Power Planning VIII, effectively exploit potentials such as wind and solar power, implement the construction of nuclear power plants, and ensure a sustainable energy source. At the same time, manage, exploit, and protect minerals effectively, especially rare earths, to serve the national development of science and technology.
Seventh, focus on key areas with advantages and potential, avoiding dispersion: Prioritize resources for some industries with advantages and development potential, avoiding inefficiency and waste, including technological solutions for practical issues in the country such as rational use of resources, environmental protection, climate change adaptation, high-tech agriculture, food security, health sciences, and 4.0 industries. Promote “sharp spearheads” of digital transformation, especially the implementation of Scheme 06 and the establishment of the National Data Center. In 2025, ensure that 100% of administrative procedures related to businesses are carried out online, smoothly, and effectively; 100% of administrative procedures are not limited by provincial administrative boundaries. Accelerate the connection and sharing of important data in fields such as population, justice, education, banking, taxation, insurance, business, land, vehicles… The National Data Center must be completed with “correct, sufficient, clean, and live” data, leading the comprehensive digital transformation, creating a foundation for the development of the digital economy and modern productive forces in the 2026-2030 period, meeting the goals of Resolution 57.
Eighth, promote cooperation and utilize international knowledge: Promote research cooperation and technology transfer with advanced countries, especially in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, and renewable energy. Actively participate in the development of international standards, initially within the ASEAN region, through initiatives such as the Hanoi Convention. We must know how to “stand on the shoulders of giants.” Attract investment from large technology corporations, create opportunities for Vietnamese enterprises to participate in global value chains, and encourage technology transfer, enhancing the capacity to learn, absorb, master, and improve the world’s knowledge and technology.
Comrades and delegates,
Our country is facing great opportunities to advance, but the challenges are also enormous. We must be determined to carry out the revolution in the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, not missing this opportunity again. I call on the entire Party, people, and army to unite, be creative, and successfully implement the tasks, bringing Resolution 57 to life quickly, building a peaceful, unified, independent
