(VOVworld) – Finland will help Vietnam make vital progress in technological development and increase connectivity among businesses and scientists. An 11 million euro agreement was signed on Thursday for the second phase of their joint innovation partnership program (IPP), of which 9.9 million euros is non-refundable aid from Finland and the rest will come from the Vietnamese Government.

IPP first phase facilitates the production of environmentally friendly paint. (Photo: VNA)

Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Quan said at the signing ceremony that this phase, from 2014 to 2018, will focus on improving the legal framework in science and technology, encouraging innovations, developing products at the regional level, and building a strong consultation team for businesses.
The first phase, from 2009-2013, cost 7 million euros and included 60 projects to develop institutional capacity and facilitate business initiatives and innovation.