Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and general director of Samsung Vietnam Choi Joo-ho hold talks yesterday. VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc on Friday suggested Samsung Vietnam expand its operations not only in electrical assembly but also in technological development. 
During a meeting in Hà Nội with general director of Samsung Vietnam Choi Joo-ho, PM Phúc said he hoped the group would continue studying and producing new-generation technological products to catch up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, as well as assist Việt Nam in building its e-government - a field of its strength. 
He also asked Samsung to continue offering practical help in workforce training and technological transfers to Vietnamese firms in the supporting industry, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises, making it easier for them to provide spare parts for the group. 
The PM also asked Samsung to call on major Republic of Korea’s firms to invest in Việt Nam.
Choi reported a plan to build a Samsung Vietnam research and development centre as suggested by the PM during his previous meeting with the group. 
Once operational, the centre would accommodate 2,000-3,000 people and become the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, he said, adding it would focus on training the software workforce and other fields such as 5G, artificial intelligence and big data. 
Hailing the significance of the centre, the host directed Hà Nội’s People’s Committee to offer all possible support to the project. 
The PM also asked Samsung to increase its investment in the country to US$20 billion from $17.4 billion at present. VNS