HÀ NỘI — Young scientists in the ASEAN region will discuss issues related to science, technology and cooperation in the region during a conference that opened on Wednesday in Hà Nội.

The ASEAN Young Scientists Conference 2019, organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union, has drawn 140 young PhDs and scientists from Việt Nam and other ASEAN countries.

With the theme 'Science, technology and renewal for sustainable ASEAN community', the conference is part of preparations for activities for young intellectuals next year when Việt Nam is ASEAN Chairman.

The conference will end on Thursday.

During the conference, participants will also tackle the role of science and technology in the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, environmental protection and coping with climate change.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Lê Xuân Định said ASEAN had defined science and technology development, renewal and creation as top priorities.

In Việt Nam, science, technology and creation were considered a foundation for the country’s development, he said.

Deputy Minister Định said humans should be considered sources of creativity and all people should contribute to the achievements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, while at the same time, be able to enjoy the benefits of it.

He said in the past years, the ministry had issued many policies to tap into the talents of young scientists, including enticing overseas Vietnamese scientists to contribute to the nation building efforts and the country's science and technology development.

The conference aims to be a forum for young scientists in the region to meet and work together.

Deputy general secretary of the ASEAN Kung Phoak said the conference was a good event to promote sustainable development in the region, and also a good occasion for youths to help resolve common problems in ASEAN, especially climate change.

In recent years, the MoST has issued many priority policies for young talented scientists, including decrees on appointing young scientists to important posts and attracting Vietnamese scientists from foreign countries and foreign scientists living and working in Việt Nam.

Earlier on November 26-28, the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union held the second Global Young Vietnamese Intellectual Forum, gathering more than 230 youngsters from 23 nations and territories.

Besides a plenary and several thematic workshops, the participants will attend a training course on leadership and trips to historical and cultural sites in Hà Nội. — VNS