Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai met with Finnish Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio on the sidelines of the Green Economy Forum (GEFE) 2024 in the city on October 21.

Mr. Mai expressed his hope that Mr. Tavio would support HCMC businesses by connecting them with Finnish partners to facilitate investments in projects that foster innovation and startup ecosystems, enhance capabilities, transfer technology, share experiences in sustainable urban planning, and promote green, resilient, clean-energy, climate-resilient economic development.

According to the city leader, the trade turnover between HCMC and Finland in 2023 reached over $35 million. Finland currently has 24 investment projects in HCM City with a total registered capital exceeding $27 million, ranking 36th out of 122 countries and territories investing in the city.

The southern city is currently piloting specific mechanisms and policies to promote the development of infrastructure, services, and industries towards modernization and sustainability. Recognizing this, the city leader welcomes Finland's investments, cooperation, and support to maximize these opportunities.

Mr. Tavio stated that Finland is currently at the forefront of wastewater treatment technology. He emphasized that, in the future, collaboration should extend beyond economic cooperation to encompass environmental management and the training of high-quality human resources.

"Finland is committed to supporting HCM City's transformation into a smart and sustainable regional connection hub, contributing to a sustainable future and strengthening regional resilience," he was quoted as saying.

During his visit, Mr. Tavio and a delegation of Finnish businesses visited key projects in HCMC, including Saigon Port and the HCMC High-Tech Park.