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FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

Yahoo

time2 days ago

  • Health
  • Yahoo

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

HANOI, Vietnam, June 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: "Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people." Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: "To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries." AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: "AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain." He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: "AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access." He further stated: "FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era." About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on Contacts Media ContactMai Duong (Ms.)FPT CorporationFPT Software PR

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

Associated Press

time2 days ago

  • Health
  • Associated Press

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

HANOI, Vietnam--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jun 6, 2025-- Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: 'Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people.' Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: 'To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries.' AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: 'AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain.' He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: 'AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access.' He further stated: 'FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era.' About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on CONTACT: Media Contact Mai Duong (Ms.) FPT Corporation FPT Software PR Manager [email protected] KEYWORD: VIET NAM SOUTHEAST ASIA ASIA PACIFIC INDUSTRY KEYWORD: TECHNOLOGY CLINICAL TRIALS HEALTH TECHNOLOGY TELEMEDICINE/VIRTUAL MEDICINE SOFTWARE HEALTH PHARMACEUTICAL DATA MANAGEMENT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOURCE: FPT Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 06/06/2025 07:13 AM/DISC: 06/06/2025 07:12 AM

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

Yahoo

time2 days ago

  • Health
  • Yahoo

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

HANOI, Vietnam, June 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: "Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people." Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: "To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries." AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: "AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain." He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: "AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access." He further stated: "FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era." About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on Contacts Media ContactMai Duong (Ms.)FPT CorporationFPT Software PR Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

Business Wire

time2 days ago

  • Health
  • Business Wire

FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: 'Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people.' Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: 'To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries.' AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: 'AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain.' He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: 'AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access.' He further stated: 'FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era.' About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight.

U.S. Tells Its Diplomats in Vietnam to Avoid War Anniversary Events
U.S. Tells Its Diplomats in Vietnam to Avoid War Anniversary Events

New York Times

time22-04-2025

  • Politics
  • New York Times

U.S. Tells Its Diplomats in Vietnam to Avoid War Anniversary Events

The Trump administration has told its senior diplomats in Vietnam not to take part in events marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the war. Four U.S. officials who insisted on anonymity to describe sensitive diplomatic decision-making said that Washington had recently directed senior diplomats — including Marc Knapper, the U.S. ambassador to Vietnam — to stay away from activities tied to the anniversary on April 30. That includes a hotel reception on April 29 with senior government leaders and an elaborate parade the next day — gatherings hosted by Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, where the war ended with South Vietnam's surrender. Veterans returning to Vietnam have also been told they're on their own, for public discussions they organize on war and reconciliation, and anniversary events. For many, it amounts to a sudden reversal after months of anticipation. 'I really don't understand it,' said John Terzano, a founder of the Vietnam Veterans of America Foundation who served two tours in Vietnam and has attended anniversary events for decades. 'As a person who has dedicated his life to reconciliation and marveled at how it's grown over the last 20 years or so, this is really a missed opportunity.' 'It really doesn't require anything of the United States to just stand there,' Mr. Terzano added, in an interview after landing in Hanoi. 'This is all ceremonial stuff — that's what makes it sound crazy and disappointing.' State Department and embassy officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A half-dozen people with knowledge of the directive said it was not clear where it originated or why it had been issued. April 30 is the 100th day of Mr. Trump's second term. Some U.S. officials speculated that a Trump appointee or a State Department leader feared drawing attention away from that milestone with events that might highlight America's defeat in a war that Mr. Trump managed to avoid. In 1968, a year when 296,406 Americans were drafted into military service, Mr. Trump received a diagnosis of bone spurs in his heels that led to a medical exemption. Regardless of the reasoning for Washington's retreat from the 50th-anniversary events, it adds another blow to decades of painstaking diplomacy by Republican and Democratic administrations, which had sought to both heal the war's wounds and build a strategic partnership for countering China. Mr. Trump had already frozen U.S.A.I.D. money allocated for addressing the legacy of the war. Even after officials restored some of it, many programs — for finding missing soldiers and demining old battlefields, for example — are still struggling with layoffs and uncertainty. The foundation of bilateral relations, built by veterans from both sides, has essentially been weakened. It was their emotional and physical hard work, with visits and civil society partnerships in Vietnam, that had persuaded former enemy governments to work through complicated issues like unexploded ordnance, soldiers missing in action and the toxic legacy of Agent Orange and other American herbicides. The momentum of postwar bonding led in 2023 to a new level of strategic partnership between the two nations. And the work had been on track to expand, until Mr. Trump's approach to the world, pugilistic and allergic to the acknowledgment of errors, strained relations. 'It's taken decades to build the current level of mutual trust and cooperation between the United States and Vietnam,' said George Black, the author of 'The Long Reckoning,' a study of U.S.-Vietnam relations after the war. 'And the whole process has been underpinned by our willingness to deal with the worst humanitarian legacies.' Mr. Knapper, the son of a Vietnam veteran who was sworn in as the U.S. ambassador in 2022, had embraced his diplomatic mission. As of a few weeks ago, he had been expected to attend the main anniversary events on April 29 and 30 alongside delegations from other countries, including Australia and the Netherlands. He has often led ceremonies in which the United States gave artifacts from the war back to Vietnamese military families, and repatriated the remains of what were believed to be missing Americans. In an essay for this month's Foreign Service Journal, he wrote about traveling to Vietnam with his father and son in 2004, describing the trip as 'a clear reminder of the sacrifices on both sides and the enduring importance of reconciliation.' 'As ambassador,' he added, 'I believe that to truly strengthen our ties, we must engage deeply and directly with the people and leaders of Vietnam.' With that goal in mind, before Mr. Trump took office, the two countries had planned to show off their hard-earned bond in a new exhibit at the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. The museum, Vietnam's most visited cultural institution, chronicles American war atrocities. Under the plan, one of its wings was to be transformed: Design blueprints aimed for a lively introduction to the activists and officials who helped forge a model of postwar recovery. Organizers had hoped the ambitious exhibit would open this month, or at least by July 11, the 30th anniversary of the restoration of American diplomatic relations with Vietnam. But it's now in limbo. The project was funded by U.S.A.I.D., while the United States Institute of Peace managed the details. The Trump administration has dismantled both agencies. 'Reconciliation is in our economic, geopolitical and moral interest,' said Andrew Wells-Dang, a senior program officer at the peace institute who oversaw the museum project until he was fired a few weeks ago. 'U.S. government and nongovernmental partners alike,' he added, 'are reeling from the effects of the new administration's actions, leaving our Vietnamese colleagues distraught and confused.' Vietnamese officials did not respond to requests for comment about the anniversary. But they have repeatedly nudged the United States toward responsibility for the war's lingering impact, with some success. After high-level discussions, the Defense Department recently restored money it had set aside for war legacy issues, even though its administrative partner, U.S.A.I.D., is gone. As a result, the cleanup process for contamination from Agent Orange at the Bien Hoa air base has been revived, at least for this year. Mr. Trump's tariffs, however, have added another layer of vexation. With a rate set at 46 percent for Vietnam — above nearly every other country — some U.S. officials thought Vietnam might disinvite diplomats to the anniversary events. That did not happen. The tariffs are now paused, and the two countries are locked in negotiations, with Vietnam seeking a reprieve and U.S. officials pushing Hanoi to decouple from China. Vietnam has often made clear that it would like to find room for its fierce independence and pursuit of prosperity. The Chinese leader, Xi Jinping, recently visited Hanoi. The anniversary events could have provided a way for the United States and Vietnam to show that, despite a brutal war, they are still close strategic partners. Instead, Vietnam is left to wonder how much it will now be asked to endure from its former adversary. Mr. Terzano said that in a proud nation that cares deeply about symbolism, the U.S. decision to avoid the events looks 'petty and nonsensical.' He argued that the absence would strengthen the world's gathering storm of doubt about America. 'You take a look at the chaos that has transpired,' he said. 'Nations around the globe are all questioning: 'Where is the U.S.? What does it mean?''

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