Tim Hughes, Senior Vice President of Global Government and Business Relations at SpaceX, expressed his hope at the meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh that the company expects to supply Starlink satellite Internet service in the country.
| Vietnam's Prime Minister Chinh (R) and Tim Hughes, Senior Vice President of Global Government and Business Relations at SpaceX |
Prime Minister Chinh warmly welcomed Hughes from the leading company in spacecraft, satellite launches, and satellite communications, valued at approximately US$210 billion.
On the occasion of the first anniversary of the US-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the Vietnamese PM emphasized Vietnam’s recognition of the US as a key partner and its commitment to deepening cooperation, especially in science, technology, innovation, high-tech industries, and semiconductors, which are crucial for their bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Chinh pointed out that while US investments in Vietnam exceed $11.8 billion through over 1,300 projects, the current economic relationship does not fully reflect the potential of their strategic partnership. He reassured that Vietnam is dedicated to creating a favorable environment for US businesses.
The Prime Minister also outlined Vietnam’s ambitions to build a digital government, economy, society, and citizenry and expressed interest in collaborating with major technology firms like SpaceX.
Hughes thanked the Prime Minister for the meeting and agreed with his views. He noted that since launching Starlink satellite internet in the US in October 2020, SpaceX now serves nearly 3 million customers in over 100 countries. SpaceX is prepared to invest in and launch Starlink services in Vietnam, including applications for education and disaster management.
He encouraged Vietnam to develop the necessary infrastructure to ensure the project's success and achieve nationwide internet access.
Hughes promised that SpaceX would work closely with Vietnamese partners and companies, focusing particularly on the areas highlighted in discussions with the Prime Minister.
