As part of the wider 2025 International AI-Semiconductor Conference (AISC), a policy forum on Vietnam’s strategy for semiconductors and AI took place at the National Innovation Centre’s (NIC) Hoa Lac campus on March 14.

Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Tam

Deputy Minister Tam said that Resolution No.57/NQ-TW set a goal of raising the technological capacity and innovation of Vietnamese companies to a level higher than the world average.

“Vietnam is now among the top three countries in Southeast Asia in terms of the research and development (R&D) of AI. We have become a centre for the development of the digital technology industry in the region,” said Tam.

Several specific solutions have been implemented to entice investment and encourage the comprehensive development of the innovation ecosystem, such as the national strategies on R&D and application of AI, the strategy for developing the semiconductor industry, and Vietnam’s semiconductor human resource development initiative.

“Therefore, in a short time, Vietnam has made impressive steps, being selected by the United States as one of the six countries participating in the Chips Act to develop the global semiconductor supply chain, attracting many large international technology corporations,” Tam said.

The NIC has coordinated with research institutes, universities, and technology firms from all over the world, such as the University of Arizona, Siemens, Google, Meta, Samsung, and Nvidia to implement many specific initiatives to boost research in AI and semiconductors. Local corporations such as Viettel, Vingroup, and FPT are also implementing numerous relevant projects.

Tam declared that the Ministry of Finance will continue to seek the opinions of experts and collaborate with the relevant ministries and agencies to propose to the government the best way to utilise these two technologies in growing Vietnam’s economy by the targeted 8 per cent or more.

“All partners in the semiconductor and AI ecosystem should work more closely to advance and enable Vietnam to become an important link in the global semiconductor and AI supply chain,” he said.

The forum attracted the participation of more than 1,000 delegates, including leaders and senior technology experts from Nvidia, Meta, IBM, Google, Intel, MediaTek, Tokyo Electron, Panasonic, along with many more representatives from the US, China, South Korea, Japan, India, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, March 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Klinik Pakar Mata VISTA Eye Specialist (VISTA), a well-established name in eye care in Malaysia, continues to improve its cataract surgery services through collaborations with recognized ophthalmic technology providers such as Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision (Johnson & Johnson) and Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG (Ziemer). These collaborations reaffirm VISTA’s commitment to investing in innovative technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to support safe and effective patient care.

Cataract: A Leading Cause of Visual Impairment

Cataracts remain a common cause of vision loss worldwide, affecting millions annually. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 17% of people with cataract have received access to an appropriate intervention (WHO, 2023). While this condition is often associated with aging, genetics, diabetes, or prolonged UV exposure may contribute to its development.

Fortunately, cataract surgery has been shown to be safe and effective. However, individual outcomes may vary depending on pre-existing eye conditions and overall health. Patients are encouraged to consult with qualified eye specialists to determine their suitability for treatment.

For more than 25 years, VISTA has been providing comprehensive ophthalmic care, attracting patients from Malaysia and beyond, including Singapore, Indonesia, and Australia.

“Cataract surgery today is about precision, patient safety, and personalized care. By working with recognized partners like Johnson & Johnson and Ziemer, we can introduce advanced solutions, including AI-assisted technologies, to improve patient treatment options,” said Grace Heng, Chief Growth Officer of VISTA.

Advancing Cataract Surgery Through Technology

VISTA integrates advanced technology into cataract surgery, including:

• Johnson & Johnson’s VERITAS™ Vision System
• TECNIS PureSee™ Intraocular Lens – Patients should discuss with their doctor to determine the most suitable lens option for their needs.
• Ziemer Femtosecond Laser Technology

“Our goal is to combine modern surgical techniques, technological advancements, and patient-centered care. However, it is important for patients to understand that results can vary depending on individual eye health and other medical conditions,” added Dr. Aloysius Joseph Low, Founder and Medical Director of VISTA.

The Role of Partnerships in Cataract Surgery

In the evolving field of cataract surgery, partnerships with leading vision care companies play an essential role in:

• Providing Surgeons with Access to Modern Technology – Ensuring eye specialists have access to advanced surgical tools to support efficient and precise procedures.
• Enhancing Patient Safety—Modern cataract surgery techniques use minimally invasive approaches, which reduces recovery times for eligible patients.
• Supporting Continuous Medical Advancements – Ongoing research and innovation in ophthalmology enable continuous improvements in patient outcomes.

“Advancements in eye care depend on responsible innovation and the adoption of well-researched medical technologies. At VISTA, we aim to provide evidence-based treatments that align with international ophthalmic standards,” said Dr. Aloysius.

Recognition in Ophthalmic Care

VISTA’s contributions to eye care have been acknowledged through its inclusion in Newsweek Asia’s Top Private Hospitals 2025, as well as its recognition as a B Corp-certified organization for its commitment to sustainability and ethical medical practices.

Guiding Patients Towards Better Vision and Quality of Life

At the core of VISTA’s patient care philosophy is Ikigai—a principle that promotes living with clarity and purpose. VISTA helps patients restore their vision and maintain an active lifestyle by offering advanced cataract surgery options.

“While cataract surgery is widely performed, each patient’s journey is unique. Our role is to provide informed guidance, safe procedures, and high standards of patient care so individuals can make the best choices for their eye health,” said Grace Heng.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Innovation in Eye Care

VISTA remains dedicated to advancing eye care services in Malaysia by continuing investments in new technology, fostering industry collaborations, and prioritizing patient education. Patients considering cataract surgery are advised to seek professional medical consultations to determine their suitability for available treatment options.

On March 13, Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi met with Nicola Beer, vice president of European Investment Bank (EIB), along with senior leaders from EIB at the Ministry of Finance headquarters in Hanoi.

The meeting overview. Photo: thoibaotaichinhvietnam.vn

The two sides discussed matters related to an MoU on financial support for achieving the goals of the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with Vietnam. This MoU will provide the bedrock for both sides to commence negotiations for a framework agreement.

To date, the negotiations have not yet progressed because the EIB has not yet sent the necessary draft framework agreement.

The MoF has therefore suggested the EIB reconsider not specifying particular projects eligible for the €500 million funding. Instead, the framework agreement should only outline priority areas for the potential funding in the framework agreement, allowing EIB to complete the draft framework agreement earlier, paving the way for negotiation.

The deputy minister also requested that the EIB clarify the EU’s form of aid for projects to be funded by the EIB and provide specific lending terms.

Additionally, the deputy minister proposed that the EIB and Vietnam sign a new-generation official development assistance agreement with larger financial scale, more favourable interest rates, simplified procedures, and less stringent conditions.

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Chi declared Vietnam’s strong commitment to green transformation and energy transition.

EIB vice president Nicola Beer stated that as a leading global bank, EIB has forged financial cooperative relations with Vietnam since 1997, supporting infrastructure construction, environmental protection, and energy development in the country.

She stressed that with its ability to raise funds from EU countries and financial institutions, the EIB was willing to assist Vietnam through specific projects.

The EIB executive also proposed that Vietnam stimulate private businesses to participate in projects benefitting from the €500 million fund to achieve the goals set in the JETP Declaration.