The Vietnamese government has officially appointed two new Vice Prime Ministers: Nguyen Chi Dung and Mai Van Chinh, as confirmed by recent announcements from the Government Office. This decision, effective from February 18, 2025, follows the President's signing of official documents appointing both officials for the 2021 - 2026 term.
Nguyen Chi Dung, previously serving on the Central Party Committee and the Standing Committee of the Government Party Committee, takes on the role of Vice Prime Minister with various responsibilities. Specifically, he will oversee the Ministry of Science and Technology, where he is expected to drive forward Vietnam's initiatives on innovation and technology. One of his pressing duties includes spearheading efforts related to semiconductor industries and artificial intelligence (AI).
At the same time, Dung will monitor the country’s digital transition strategies and investment plans both domestically and internationally. His role is pivotal, bridging government efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) as well as encouraging Vietnamese investments abroad. "Nguyen Chi Dung will oversee the Ministry of Science and Technology, national planning, among other responsibilities," reported VOV.vn.
Complementing Dung’s portfolio, Mai Van Chinh will also serve as Vice Prime Minister. Chinh holds similar distinctions within the Central Party Committee and Standing Committee of the Government Party Committee and is tasked with overseeing the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
His responsibilities will encompass various aspects of cultural promotion and the integration of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities within the national framework. Chinh is identified to lead governmental programs aimed at developing economically underprivileged areas and fostering growth among ethnic minority groups, ensuring their voices are represented at the national level.
"Mai Van Chinh will supervise the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism," highlighted VOV.vn, shedding light on the importance of his position.” Both officials were selected to provide strategic leadership during this pivotal term, with expectations to galvanize initiatives aimed at the nation’s socio-economic development.
Reflecting on the broad spectrum of responsibilities assigned to Chinh, he is also expected to guide cultural policies, advocate for tourism and sports advancement, and oversee initiatives on media and publishing. Chinh’s experience and insights will hopefully play significant roles as Vietnam navigates through modern cultural dynamics and prepares for upcoming international cultural exchanges.
The appointment of Nguyen Chi Dung and Mai Van Chinh emphasizes the Vietnamese government's commitment to enhancing its leadership ranks with skilled individuals poised to tackle pressing national issues. Interestingly, both new Vice Prime Ministers are expected to lead major sectors—science, technology, and cultural affairs—and their appointments come at a time when Vietnam is undergoing significant policy reforms aiming to integrate technology and culture effectively.
These appointments signal the government's proactive measures to address the socio-economic challenges Vietnam faces, particularly the focus on innovation, investment, and cultural cohesion. With their varied expertise, Dung and Chinh are well-positioned to contribute strategically toward achieving Vietnam’s goals of sustained growth and enhanced global standing.
Both Vice Prime Ministers will be instrumental as Vietnam looks to balance development with its rich cultural heritage. The expectations set for their roles will undoubtedly shape the future of the country’s socio-political fabric. The significance of having focused leadership for science and culture could resonate throughout various sectors and drive Vietnam toward more holistic progress.
Moving forward, the operational dynamics of Dung's and Chinh's appointments will be under scrutiny, with many watching to see how momentum builds around their initiatives. Their commitment to cross-sectoral collaboration will also play a key role as Vietnam aims to bolster its presence and influence regionally and globally.