In terms of the economy and flagship sectors, the Liverpool City Region is located in the North West of England, comprising the city of Liverpool and five neighboring boroughs: Halton, Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens, and Wirral. With a population of approximately 1.6 million, it is one of the largest and most dynamic metropolitan areas in the United Kingdom. Liverpool has long been renowned as one of Europe's most important seaports, serving as a gateway for the UK's international trade for centuries. According to data from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, the region is currently undergoing a powerful transformation toward a knowledge-based, innovative, and green economy, with prominent strengths in logistics, digital technology, health and life sciences, creative industries, clean energy, and higher education. Liverpool is also globally celebrated as the birthplace of the legendary band The Beatles and possesses numerous world-famous heritage sites, creating a unique cultural identity and strong international appeal.
Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Nguyen Loc Ha and Deputy Mayor of Liverpool City Region Mike Wharton sign an MOU on health, education, and science & technology cooperation. - Photo: Government Online News
Regarding economy, the Liverpool City Region stands as one of the premier hubs for logistics, international trade, and innovation in the United Kingdom. The region boasts a modern seaport system, two international airports with 45 minutes’ drive time, a transportation network seamlessly connected to major European economic centers, and a thriving research and innovation ecosystem powered by leading universities and research institutes. On the basis of the cooperative potential between the two localities, Ho Chi Minh City aims to expand cooperation with the Liverpool City Region in five key focus areas:
Logistics, Seaports, and International Supply Chains: Enhancing the exchange of seaport management experiences, developing smart logistics, connecting supply chains, and upgrading the competitiveness of international freight transport systems.
Innovation and Digital Transformation: Promoting cooperation among research centers, universities, technology enterprises, and startup ecosystems to develop digital technology solutions, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and smart cities.
Life Sciences and Healthcare: Expanding cooperation in biomedical research, biotechnology, healthcare innovation, and the development of high-quality medical human resources.
Clean Energy and Sustainable Development: Sharing experiences in renewable energy development, carbon emission reduction, the circular economy, and the implementation of green growth and climate change adaptation goals.
Education, Culture, and People-to-People Exchanges: Driving educational cooperation programs, student exchanges, cultural interactions, tourism development, and strengthening mutual understanding between the communities of both localities.