Davos, January 23, 2025 – The Europe Today: On Wednesday afternoon, Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính delivered a keynote speech during the discussion session titled “ASEAN: Even Stronger Together”, held as part of the 55th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. The session was moderated by WEF President Børge Brende and featured prominent leaders, including Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh Muhammad Yunus, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Myanmar Julie Bishop, and Non-Executive Independent Chair of Mastercard Merit Janow.
During the discussion, participants highlighted the vital role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a dynamic economic bloc and a key driver of global growth. ASEAN’s young, digitally savvy population was recognized as a significant advantage in the region’s transition to the “intelligent age,” with its entrepreneurial and innovative spirit expected to fuel future progress.
Malaysian Priorities and ASEAN’s Role
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim outlined three priorities for ASEAN’s Chairmanship in 2025: ensuring energy infrastructure, particularly green and alternative energy; enhancing regional connectivity with a focus on artificial intelligence; and responding to climate change.
Vietnam’s Vision for ASEAN
In his address, PM Chính emphasized the importance of ASEAN embracing the “intelligent age” with an ambitious mindset. He called for the use of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as drivers of regional growth. Highlighting Việt Nam’s position as ASEAN’s fastest-growing economy, he underscored the need for ASEAN to pursue rapid and sustainable development, avoiding complacency with average growth rates.
The Prime Minister outlined six pillars for a successful ASEAN in the intelligent age:
- Political and security stability, ensuring peace and the absence of war.
- Rapid and sustainable economic development.
- Unity in diversity, preserving ASEAN’s identity while respecting each member’s uniqueness.
- Environmental sustainability, protecting resources for future generations.
- Social progress, ensuring inclusivity and justice, leaving no one behind.
- Cooperation with global partners to achieve shared development goals.
Vietnam’s National Strategy
PM Chính shared Việt Nam’s commitment to science, technology, and innovation, supported by three strategic priorities: institutions, infrastructure, and human resources.
- Institutions: Việt Nam recently issued Resolution 57, promoting breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, alongside relevant laws to build a robust ecosystem.
- Infrastructure: Investment in information technology and digital databases will form the foundation for growth.
- Human Resources: Focused on preparing a high-quality workforce, particularly in emerging fields such as green transition, digitalization, and the knowledge economy.
Myanmar and Regional Solidarity
Addressing the Myanmar issue, PM Chính expressed confidence in ASEAN’s ability to foster peace, stability, and happiness for the people of Myanmar through solidarity and unity.
Successful Conclusion of Official Visit
The Vietnamese leader’s insights and strategic vision for ASEAN were well-received by attendees, underscoring Vietnam’s active role in the region’s development. Later that evening, PM Chính, his spouse, and the high-ranking delegation departed Switzerland, concluding their official visits to Poland and the Czech Republic, as well as their participation in the WEF annual meeting and bilateral engagements in Switzerland.
