Vietnamese President Võ Văn Thưởng hosted a meeting with Apple CEO Tim Cook on November 15 (local time). During the meeting, President Thưởng expressed appreciation for Apple’s expanding business and production in Vietnam, highlighting the positive impact of Apple products on Vietnamese youth’s access to high-tech devices. He also emphasized the opportunity for Apple to increase its investment in Vietnam’s high-tech industry, given the upgraded bilateral relations between Vietnam and the United States.

In response, Tim Cook acknowledged Vietnam’s significance in Apple’s business strategy, noting that several Apple products, including Macbook, iPad, and Apple Watch, are already being produced in the country. Cook also recognized Vietnam’s thriving digital economy and the increasing investment by leading global electronics and technology companies, including those from the US. He praised Vietnam’s pool of highly skilled engineers and technology professionals.

Cook recommended several areas for development in Vietnam, including the improvement of 5G technology standards, the refinement of the legal framework to support digital economic growth, and careful consideration of factors related to the application and development of artificial intelligence.

President Thưởng affirmed Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing the investment and business environment for foreign companies, including efforts to upgrade telecommunications standards and develop digital infrastructure and workforce training. He urged Apple to increase its investments in Vietnamese localities, particularly major provinces and cities, and encouraged US firms to participate in the development and application of 5G technology in Vietnam.