Finnish Businesses Seek to Expand Investment in Vietnam's Energy Sector
	Enhancing Education for Vietnamese, Finnish Preschoolers

This assessment was shared by Dr. Keijo Varis, a lecturer in strategic thinking at the University of Turku of Applied Science (Finland) and a member of the Board of the Finland-Vietnam Friendship Association, in an interview with VietnamTimes Magazine ahead of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Dr. Keijo Varis, lecturer in strategic thinking at the University of Turku of Applied Science (Finland), member of the Board of the Finland-Vietnam Friendship Association. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Maintaining an Economic Focus in a Polarized World

According to Dr. Keijo Varis, Vietnam has achieved notable economic accomplishments and is now facing many favorable opportunities to rise and become a high-income country in the near future, provided that it can adopt sound and consistent policy decisions. In an increasingly complex global political environment, where major confrontations are gradually taking shape, he believes that Vietnam needs to maintain its ability to stay outside major ideological conflicts and international political tensions.

The Finnish scholar recommends that Vietnam pursue the position of a neutral and highly objective country to the greatest extent possible, focusing on addressing internal issues, particularly promoting economic development and boosting export-oriented trade. In his view, limiting participation in or commentary on global political crises will help Vietnam maintain a stable environment conducive to development.

Dr. Keijo Varis (front row, fourth from the right) attends a reception hosted by General Secretary To Lam with representatives of the Finland–Vietnam Friendship Association and a group of Finnish experts who have participated in support projects in Vietnam, on October 22 in Helsinki (Finland). (Photo: Thong Nhat/VNA)

Development for the Happiness of the People

Beyond economic growth, Dr. Keijo Varis believes that focusing on improving the happiness of all people, across all regions, cultures, and ethnic groups, is a sound decision reflecting Vietnam’s long-term vision. As a citizen of Finland, a country that has for many years been ranked as the happiest in the world, he emphasizes that happiness does not stem solely from economic prosperity or social equality, but is also closely linked to free education, a strong healthcare system, gender equality, and the protection of freedom of thought and freedom of religion.

The Finnish scholar particularly stresses that Vietnam needs to proactively and thoroughly prepare for challenges posed by climate change, especially the risk of severe flooding in eastern coastal areas.

“This requires the development of effective weather forecasting systems, coupled with a consistently operated ‘forecasting culture,’ along with timely warning mechanisms and clear, feasible evacuation plans to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. The management of tourism activities in high-risk areas should also be carefully considered in order to avoid creating anxiety and insecurity within society,” Dr. Keijo Varis said.

Regarding the investment environment, he affirmed that the private economic sector plays an important role in promoting innovation and creativity. At the same time, to effectively attract foreign investment flows, enterprises with foreign direct investment should be guaranteed equal operating conditions with state-owned enterprises and domestic private businesses. He believes that the legal system needs to ensure stability and predictability, avoiding sudden changes that could create difficulties for investors.

According to Dr. Keijo Varis, major cooperation potential in the coming period lies in the development of foreign-invested enterprises in Vietnam, as well as in expanding cooperation in the field of education - a fundamental factor for long-term growth and sustainable development.

Finnish Corporation to Plan the First Flexible Power Project in Vietnam Finland's Wartsila Group and its Vietnamese partner are researching and planning for the first flexible power project using LNG combined with renewable energy in Vietnam.

Overseas Vietnamese and Their Confidence and Expectations for 14th National Party Congress In the lead-up to the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Vietnamese community abroad - overseas Vietnamese around the world - ...