Swiss President Guy Parmelin made a significant proposal during his official visit to Vietnam, suggesting a direct link between Switzerland's renowned Crypto Valley Center and Vietnam's burgeoning innovation ecosystem. The proposal, extended during a meeting with Prime Minister Le Minh Hung on the afternoon of 17/10, aims to catalyze collaboration in advanced technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum technology.

President Parmelin emphasized Switzerland's readiness to share its expertise and strengths across various sectors. These include finance, insurance, reinsurance, manufacturing, precision machinery, and high technology. He also highlighted the potential for enhanced vocational training cooperation, with programs designed to align closely with specific business demands.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung met Swiss President Guy Parmelin, 17/10. *Photo: VGP*

Crypto Valley, primarily located in the Zug region of Switzerland, is a vibrant ecosystem of businesses and organizations dedicated to blockchain, crypto assets, and financial technology. It is recognized globally as one of the leading blockchain ecosystems.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung acknowledged Switzerland's financial prowess, identifying it as a priority sector for Vietnam's development. The Prime Minister requested Swiss guidance and support for establishing an international financial center in Vietnam, along with facilitating connections to major global financial hubs.

Vietnam specifically proposed deepening cooperation in several areas: green finance, investment funds, asset management, crypto assets, carbon credits, international bonds, and financial technology (fintech).

Beyond technology and finance, both leaders underscored the importance of the Vietnam - EFTA Free Trade Agreement (VEFTA). They agreed that its signing presents substantial opportunities to boost bilateral trade and investment. Prime Minister Le Minh Hung urged both nations to collaborate for the agreement's swift implementation, setting an ambitious goal to double bilateral trade turnover. He further encouraged Swiss businesses and investment funds to expand their presence in Vietnam, particularly in finance-banking, manufacturing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and innovation.

President Parmelin noted the broad participation of Swiss businesses and scientists in his delegation, signaling strong interest in bilateral cooperation. He also affirmed Switzerland's commitment to offering greater visa facilitation for Vietnamese citizens. Both sides concurred on making education and training, science and technology, and innovation central to their future partnership. This expanded cooperation will extend beyond artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum technology to include green energy, the digital economy, sustainable agriculture, emission reduction, and climate change adaptation.

By Phuong Dung