The seminar followed a visit by a delegation of French experts specialising in data, artificial intelligence and digital technology to Vietnam's Government Office from October 5 to 9. The visit was part of an e-Government cooperation project between the two countries.
Held at the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, the event aimed to improve the digital capabilities of leaders and managers in Vietnam's State administrative and political systems. It also introduced modern approaches to governance and encouraged the use of AI and digital technology to design public services around people's needs.
French experts shared experience and methods for redesigning administrative processes and removing cumbersome, redundant procedures through the use of data and AI.
The main objective was to help Vietnam build a digital government system that operates transparently, quickly and efficiently to serve the public.
At the ceremony, Dr. Dau Huong Nam, director of the academy's Department of International Relations, stressed the role of public servants in the country's digital transformation.
“Digital transformation and AI are, first and foremost, about changing leadership thinking and the workforce's ability to adapt. Leaders do not need to be technology experts, but they must understand technology and recognise both its opportunities and risks in order to make sound decisions in the political and social context,” he said.
He added that developing science and technology, promoting innovation and pursuing digital transformation are important strategic directions of the Party and the State. This was clearly expressed in Resolution No. 57 of the Politburo.
“This directly requires leaders and managers to understand and use data and technology while maintaining responsibility and steadfastness in every decision,” he said. Digital skills training for public servants is already being provided at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and other State agencies, he added.
He thanked the French experts for their support and praised the training.
“France has extensive experience and valuable knowledge in public administration, public services and AI. Today gives us an opportunity to use French experience while adapting it to Vietnam's specific institutional conditions and requirements, especially in governance, data security and human factors,” he said.
Eric Soulier, Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Action at the French Embassy in Vietnam, also noted the role of leaders and managers in central ministries and local government agencies. He said they are key participants in the digital transformation process and will ultimately help institutions serve the public better and bring government services closer to citizens and businesses.
He pointed to positive results in the legal and judicial sectors and in digital transformation between Vietnam and France over the past three years, and expressed hope for more practical exchanges.
“The cooperative relationship between the two countries will be effective and dynamic only if we maintain regular exchanges,” he said.
“I hope that in the near future French experts will step up their support for projects focused on digital transformation and the modernisation of Vietnam's State administrative system,” he said.
Sources: Viet Nam News
