Notably, the city has proactively shifted toward comprehensive integration, leveraging the effective attraction of international knowledge, technology, and financial resources as a new growth driver.
Diplomacy Serving the Economy
Reflecting on the landscape of Ho Chi Minh City's foreign affairs and economic integration in recent months, continuous progress has been observed across multiple sectors. According to the August periodic report of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee on the implementation of Resolution No. 59-NQ/TW of the Politburo, the city has actively concretized central directives through a series of extensive multilateral and bilateral cooperation activities.
A standout highlight in economic integration activities is the determination to accelerate the development progress of the Vietnam International Financial Center in Ho Chi Minh City (VIFC-HCMC). According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu Huan, Vice Chairman of the VIFC-HCMC Executive Board, the Center has recorded approximately USD 20 billion in capital commitments from domestic and foreign investors.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu Huan, Vice Chairman of the VIFC-HCMC Executive Board. - Photo: ITPC
Subsequently, on August 17, the VIFC-HCMC Executive Board and the Executive Board of the International Financial Center in Da Nang (VIFC-DN) launched the membership registration and recognition system for the International Financial Center in Vietnam (VIFC) for the 2026–2027 phase.
Prior to this, the VIFC-HCMC Executive Board launched its Advisory Council, demonstrating VIFC-HCMC's resolve to build a development mechanism with the active participation of experts, managers, and key stakeholders.
The establishment of the VIFC-HCMC Advisory Council represents an important step in refining the strategic advisory mechanism for the Center, as members will contribute in-depth perspectives, practical experience, and valuable recommendations.
In parallel, international cooperation has continued to strengthen through the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation for the 2026–2030 period between the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee and the Government of Champasak Province (Laos), opening up new development spaces in trade, logistics, agriculture, and tourism. Ho Chi Minh City has also stepped up engagements with partners from Catalonia (Spain), the Northern Territory of Australia, the German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (BVMW), and various international organizations.
Permanent Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Nguyen Loc Ha hosts a reception for Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations of the Northern Territory (Australia) Robyn Cahill on August 12, 2026. Source: www.hochiminhcity.gov.vn
Foreign affairs activities are also closely linked with the allocation of approximately VND 12,705 billion (accounting for 4.16% of the city's total budget expenditure in 2026) for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation this year.
Notably, Ho Chi Minh City jumped 12 places to reach 98th globally and entered the Top 100 global startup ecosystems for the first time, according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026 report released by StartupBlink in May.
The city has also proactively connected with global expert networks in strategic fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, big data, and advanced energy.
The Strategic Technology Center in the Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP) is expected to issue investment calls starting in the fourth quarter of 2026, targeting investments in semiconductor projects, artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, and biotechnology.
The Foreign Affairs Rendezvous in September
Continuing this vibrant series of diplomatic activities, Ho Chi Minh City is scheduled to host the 3rd Ho Chi Minh City Friendship Dialogue 2026 in September in the Vung Tàu area.
The event is expected to attract between 500 and 700 domestic and international delegates. The guest list includes leaders from international localities holding friendly and cooperative relations with Ho Chi Minh City, diplomatic missions, international organizations, business associations, multinational corporations, as well as representatives of the Government and central ministries and agencies.
Delegates will focus on in-depth discussions regarding strategic solutions to promote local cooperation in smart city development, smart port models combined with next-generation logistics hubs, and international best practices in attracting resources to develop VIFC-HCMC.
The forum not only affirms Ho Chi Minh City's position on the multilateral diplomatic map, but also serves as a concrete step toward the objective of placing Ho Chi Minh City among the Top 100 most livable cities and Top 50 smart cities in the world.
Tuong Thuy