Standing Deputy PM hosts former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair

Pham hailed Blair's role and contributions as one of the founders of the Gaza Peace Council and a member of its executive board, affirming Viet Nam's consistent support for the Middle East peace process based on the two-state solution.

He spoke highly of cooperation between the TBI and Vietnamese agencies, adding that the partnership has gone beyond exchanges to deliver tangible outcomes, reflecting the TBI's long-term commitment to Viet Nam and deepening practical and substantive cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

He urged the TBI to strengthen its role in enhancing connectivity between European, Middle Eastern, and other international businesses, investment funds, and major corporations with Viet Nam, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), the semiconductor industry, data centers, renewable energy, hydrogen, and offshore wind power.

The host called on the organization to continue supporting Viet Nam in the development of international financial center by connecting the country with experienced partners in legal and regulatory framework development, modern financial technology, human resource training, and financial infrastructure built to international standards.

Regarding administrative reform and digital government, he said Viet Nam wishes to continue drawing on the TBI's international experience in public governance, data-driven public service delivery, and the application of AI and emerging technologies to improve services for citizens and businesses.

The Standing Deputy Prime Minister expressed his hope that the TBI would support local authorities in translating science and technology policies into concrete action programs linked to the development of strategic technologies and strategic products.

Pham proposed that the TBI further expand collaboration with Viet Nam National University and other leading Vietnamese universities, enhance strategic policy advisory services, share international experience in building innovation ecosystems, and support Viet Nam in researching, formulating, and implementing policies for emerging technologies.

Blair, for his part, reiterated the TBI's desire to foster cooperation with Viet Nam across a wide range of areas, including the development of the international financial center.

The TBI stands ready to accompany Viet Nam, promote investment, and support the country's development process, he underlined./.