Vietnam Taps 2,000 European Experts to Drive Innovation

Vietnam is building a powerful bridge between global expertise and national progress, and the results are already taking shape.

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung met with Vietnamese scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs working across Germany and Europe on March 20 in Berlin. The gathering brought together members of the Vietnam Innovation Network, a growing community of overseas experts dedicated to advancing their homeland's technological future.

The network now spans more than 22 countries with over 2,000 members. These aren't just any professionals. They include leading scientists, chief engineers, and top architects working in high technology, healthcare, energy, agriculture, and digital transformation.

The initiative started with a clear purpose: tap into the knowledge of Vietnamese people worldwide and bring cutting-edge innovations back home. The National Innovation Centre under Vietnam's Ministry of Finance launched the network to connect overseas talent with urgent challenges facing the country.

The experts have already made tangible contributions. They've helped shape major laws on science, technology, and digital industry. They've advised on semiconductor industry strategy and AI development. Some have gone further, establishing businesses in Vietnam, transferring technology, and investing directly in the country's innovation ecosystem.

Deputy Minister of Finance Le Tan Can praised the network's impact beyond policy advice. Members have supported the creation of an International Financial Centre, organized study missions in Europe, and connected Vietnamese institutions with European partners.

During the Berlin meeting, experts shared recommendations drawn from Germany's and Europe's innovation success stories. Discussions centered on AI strategy, healthcare technology, smart transport systems, and how Vietnam can shift toward innovation-driven growth that could achieve double-digit economic expansion.

The Ripple Effect

The collaboration between Vietnam and its diaspora experts is creating opportunities that extend far beyond individual projects. As Vietnamese startups gain access to European markets through these connections, they're building relationships that strengthen both regions. The partnerships in green technology and digital transformation between Vietnam and the EU are opening doors for knowledge exchange that benefits emerging economies worldwide.

Deputy Prime Minister Dung challenged the network to turn their expertise into concrete solutions for national priorities. He called on them to lead initiatives and transform aspirations into actions that create real value.

With trade and technology cooperation between Vietnam and Germany continuing to expand, these overseas intellectuals are becoming the vital bridge that brings global innovation home. Their work is helping Vietnam build a future where prosperity and sustainability go hand in hand.