Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat shared his practical experience in socio-economic development during a meeting with Ho Chi Minh City leaders on Thursday.

Deputy PM Heng met with Ho Chi Minh City chairman Phan Van Mai and Party Secretary Nguyen Van Nen on Thursday, as part of his official visit to Vietnam from September 11 to 15.

Secretary Nen highlighted that Ho Chi Minh City is still recovering from the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that Singapore, a country with a well-developed economy and strong human resources, could share its experience in order to help the Vietnamese city overcome its current challenges.

Deputy PM Heng shared his admiration for the efforts made by the Vietnamese government and Ho Chi Minh City in the fight against COVID-19, adding that Singapore itself learned many lessons, including anti-pandemic measures, during its cooperation with and investment in Vietnam.

The Singaporean leader proposed that Ho Chi Minh City promote digital transformation and the digital economy, as well as prioritize green technology and sustainable development.

He added that Singapore hopes to boost cooperation with Ho Chi Minh City in the development of the aviation sector, tourism, sea transport, digital infrastructure, and network security.

During his dialogue with chairman Mai, Deputy PM Heng shared many practical stories about socio-economic development.

The world is witnessing a lot of challenges, including the financial crisis in Asia, the global energy crisis, and the post-COVID-19 crisis, he continued, adding that building a resilient economy is necessary in the modern socio-economic climate.

Vietnam has been recovering rapidly and making great strides since the pandemic was put under control, the deputy premier assessed.

Digital transformation and sustainable development play very important roles, he stressed, adding that boosting healthcare and education is also necessary to create a healthy and skilled population.

Chairman Mai said that Ho Chi Minh City wants to learn from and cooperate with Singapore in governance issues, digital transformation, housing, traffic, flood control, and sustainable city development.

The chairman shared his wish to send officials to Singapore on a regular basis in order to study and discuss further cooperation between both sides.

Building a smart city is not a simple matter, Deputy PM Heng elaborated, noting that Singapore is aiming for a smart and green city and will plant one million more trees and promote efficient energy use and recycling.

Singaporean President Halimah Yacob will visit Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City in the near future, Heng continued.

The visit will mark a milestone in the close relationship between his country and Vietnam, he said.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is expected to visit Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City next year to mark 50 years of the two nations’ diplomatic relations.

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