The proposal opens up a new path for Vietnam and its partners to exploit space technology advancement for socio-economic development and strengthen resilience to challenges on earth.
The proposed new cooperation network is closely linked to Vietnam’s efforts to develop its space capabilities over the years. Through cooperation with France and other international partners, Vietnam has acquired trained technology personnel and mastered satellite technologies and now needs broader cooperation to connect scientific, technological, and investment resources to make outer space a new driver of development.
From technology cooperation to resource connectivity
Top leader To Lam said outer space is creating new opportunities and new requirements for governance, safety, and responsibility. Aerospace technology is among Vietnam’s strategic technologies and a component of its development capacity, with three priorities.
“First, enhance self-reliance in space technology and data; second, develop a space economy ecosystem and encourage financial models for applications serving public interests; and third, improve the institutional framework and governance capacity for space activities in line with international law. International cooperation has made important contributions to Vietnam’s effort to use outer space for peace, development, and the benefit of its people,” said Mr Lam.
Addressing heads of state, government leaders, heads of national space agencies, representatives of international organisations and businesses, and aerospace researchers from 130 countries, General Secretary and President Lam said a multilateral governance framework is needed to ensure that outer space remains peaceful, safe, sustainable, and accessible to all, with capacity development balanced by responsibility, and national interests aligned with the common interests of the international community.
Three key areas have been identified for the network: sharing and using space data for development, strengthening capacity for the safe and sustainable use of outer space, and linking research, training, business, and investment to foster the space economy. Data, human resources, research, businesses, and capital should be brought together within a single network, with a focus on practical applications for development and strengthening society’s resilience.
In Vietnam’s proposal, development is pursued alongside strengthening resilience. Applications of space technology and data, such as disaster early warning, climate monitoring, and resource management, are identified as priority areas alongside sustainable development goals.
From Vietnam–France cooperation to broader cooperation
Top leader To Lam’s attendance at the International Space Summit highlights Vietnam’s determination to engage more deeply in strategic technology that’s shaping the future, in the space economy, in ensuring space security through dialogue and partnerships, and in advancing space exploration for the future of humanity.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung said: “French leaders and international organisations praised General Secretary and President To Lam’s Summit participation. Space is no longer just a field of science, but also a new frontier for development. The Vietnamese Party and State attach great importance to this field and seek to open up new avenues for development and strengthen international cooperation to mobilize resources.”
Mr. Lam proposed a network based on cooperation between Vietnam, France, the UN, ASEAN, and other partners. France and Vietnam have carried out numerous cooperation programs in the space sector, notably the VNREDSat-1 project.
“International cooperation plays a crucial role in scientific research and technological development, enabling us to mobilise resources. No country can develop science and technology on its own. Through international cooperation, we have opportunities to train personnel, particularly highly qualified technology professionals. We can acquire existing technologies and gradually develop our own. Vietnamese experts can quickly gain access to satellite technologies and knowledge of countries with advanced capabilities and experience in this field,” said Prof. Dr. Tran Tuan Anh, Vice President of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology.
The “Space for Development and Resilience” network proposal demonstrates Vietnam’s proactive approach to expanding cooperation in a strategic technological sector, moving from bilateral partnerships to regional and international connectivity. This initiative also paves the way for Vietnam and its partners to harness space technology achievements for development, ultimately benefiting the people.
