Prof. Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF), engaged in a dialogue with young entrepreneurs, startups, students, and outstanding citizens of Ho Chi Minh City on October 6 during his visit, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

Addressing the dialogue, Chairman Phan Van Mai of the municipal People's Committee emphasized the pivotal role of young people in shaping Vietnam's knowledge-based economy. He highlighted the importance of every innovative idea and startup in driving collective prosperity.

Prof. Schwab underscored Vietnam's potential to transition into the Age of Intelligence, given its rich culture and rapidly growing economy. He stressed the significance of the younger generation in shaping the country's future, emphasizing the transformative impact of technology, economics, and social changes on their careers, opportunities, and lives.

He highlighted the emergence of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, block chain, the Internet of Things, and biotechnology, as catalysts for innovation and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the unique advantages of Vietnamese youth in seizing these opportunities, citing the country's growing digital economy and government commitment to innovation.

The WEF leader expressed confidence in Vietnamese youth's ability to lead the country's innovation wave, driven by their flexibility and creativity. He underscored their crucial role in ensuring equitable distribution of the benefits from the Age of Intelligence.

Through global digital platforms, Prof. Schwab encouraged Vietnamese youth to collaborate, learn, and contribute to addressing global challenges like climate change, poverty reduction, and healthcare innovation.

Following the talk show, Prof. Schwab visited the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Ho Chi Minh City (C4IR), a collaboration between the southern city and WEF.

In a previous meeting with Chairman Mai, Prof. Schwab expressed admiration for Ho Chi Minh City's dynamic development, which reflects Vietnam's entrepreneurial spirit. He emphasized the need for the city to focus on infrastructure, ecological balance, and investment for future generations. He affirmed WEF's commitment to supporting the city's green energy transition, AI, and human development.