Ho Chi Minh City hosts 3rd Friendship Dialogue to boost innovation

Ho Chi Minh City hosted the 3rd Ho Chi Minh City Friendship Dialogue (FD 2026) from September 10 to 12 in Vung Tau Ward. The event focused on “City Diplomacy: A Driving Force for Innovation and Sustainable Development,” gathering over 500 international and local delegates to discuss leveraging local diplomacy to attract technological talent and resources.

Key discussions included strategies for encouraging private investment in research and development (R&D) and the role of local governments as facilitators of innovation. Drawing on lessons from Leipzig, Germany, participants explored how cities can provide infrastructure and practical challenges to help businesses develop solutions.

A notable outcome of the dialogue was support for a multilateral cooperation mechanism regarding seaports. This initiative aims to create a regular forum for data exchange, coordination, and supply chain connection to meet modern sustainability standards. The event follows the city's recent expansion, which includes the merger with Binh Duong and Ba Ria – Vung Tau, creating a territory of over 6,770 km².