Hanoi (VNA)ꦚ – The 3M Corporation from the US opened a science, technology and engineering centre in Hanoi on August 13.

The centre introduces a series of solutions for traffic safety and the commercial market and showcases the corporation’s electronic technologies and solutions in Southeast Asia. With an area of 417 sq.m, the centre offers tours and interactive experiences, helping customers better understand how 3M Group's technologies are promoting and developing solutions for the future. Previously, the corporation launched a Customer Technical Centre (CTC) in Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on introducing solutions and business cooperation opportunities to partner businesses nationwide. Addressing the centre's opening, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc emphasised that the establishment of the centre is a concrete step in Vietnam’s journey to become a global hub for innovation. She said Vietnam is at an important point in the transformation towards a digital economy, green economy, and circular economy. Vietnam's socio-economic development strategy for the 2021-2030 period has identified three strategic breakthroughs in institutions, infrastructure and human resource development associated with economic restructuring and growth model innovation; promoting development based on science and technology, innovation and cultural values of Vietnamese people, Ngoc said. To realise the above goals, Vietnam has implemented many specific solutions to attract investment and has now become the destination of many technology corporations in the world, the deputy minister said, adding that the country expects the presence of international corporations and businesses in Vietnam in the future. She hoped that in the coming time, the 3M centre and Vietnam’s National Innovation Centre will engage in effective cooperation to further tap the advantages of each side. The establishment of the 3M centre is evidence that Vietnam is gradually becoming a destination of hi-tech innovative projects and R&D in the region, Ngoc said, adding that the event also bears significance to the growing cooperation between Vietnam and the US. US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper said that 3M's investment in Vietnam is a strong and constructive affirmation that businesses can contribute to promoting scientific and technological cooperation. The centre will make an important contribution to promoting innovation, progress and prosperity for both countries, including a commitment to economic growth, technological progress and sustainable development, he said. Amit Laroya, Senior Vice President - Asia, 3M Transportation & Electronics Business Group said that in the next two years, the corporation plans to invest in more advanced testing equipment to meet the needs of the rapidly growing Vietnamese market. Vietnam prioritises selective investment attraction, targeting high-tech projects, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, research and development, renewable energy, hydrogen, and synchronous infrastructure construction. Those are also areas where US investors have great potential and strengths, he said./.