Ha Noi, Seoul strengthen strategic cooperation on smart urban and river development
VGP - Ha Noi is set to expand cooperation with Seoul in smart urban development, high technology, and long-term planning for the Red River, according to Chairman of the Ha Noi People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang.
Chairman of the Ha Noi People’s Committee Vu Dai Thang and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon
During a meeting with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon on December 5, Vu highlighted the close and dynamic relationship the two capitals have built over the past three decades. He praised the contributions of Korean businesses to Ha Noi's economic progress, particularly in manufacturing, urban development, and high-tech research.
Vu expressed admiration for Seoul's achievements in revitalizing the Han River, as well as its advances in digital transformation and technological innovation. He noted that Ha Noi is entering a new development phase and that the Red River planning project will serve as a strategic foundation for the city's growth. Ha Noi is eager to deepen collaboration with Seoul and Korean enterprises to realize this vision.
Mayor Oh Se-hoon said he feels a strong connection to Ha Noi, a city he first visited in 2007. "If Seoul has the Han River, Ha Noi has the Red River," he said. "I know this river well and have taken part in several projects along it, which makes it feel close."
Oh highlighted the positive feedback from Korean enterprises during his recent meetings with the local business community, noting that Ha Noi's supportive environment has allowed major corporations such as Samsung, as well as numerous small and medium-sized firms, to invest confidently and operate stably. He also emphasized that Korean businesses are ready to contribute more to human resource training, particularly for young talent and in industries where both cities share strengths.
Praising Ha Noi's long-term Red River development plans, Oh said successful implementation would enhance the city's economic capacity and improve residents' living conditions. He underlined that smart city development is now a global priority. Starting in 2026, Seoul will host the annual Smart Life Week, which Oh hopes will serve as a platform for Ha Noi and other regional cities to exchange solutions for urban management and technological applications.
Chairman Vu welcomed the proposals, expressing appreciation for Seoul's commitment to supporting Ha Noi's development goals. He noted that young talent will play a vital role in connecting the two capitals and hopes more Ha Noi students will have opportunities to study and conduct research in Seoul.
Ha Noi also plans to expand cultural and tourism exchanges, supported by increasing air connectivity between the two cities. Vu emphasized that the Korean community in Ha Noi plays an important role in strengthening bilateral ties.
"Building on three decades of cooperation, Ha Noi and Seoul aim to broaden practical and effective collaboration to create creative, modern, and livable cities for future generations," Vu said./.
