We were honored by the presence of Ms. Andrea Suehl, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Ho Chi Minh. Her participation highlighted the enduring diplomatic and academic ties between Germany and Vietnam and reaffirmed both countries’ shared commitment to urban innovation and sustainable growth.
The conference centered on three thematic pillars: first, a comparative analysis of international models for regional coordination and integrated development; second, a study of spatial planning based on the “axis – pole – satellite” framework; and third, the proposal of flexible governance mechanisms that incorporate digital technologies and data-driven decision-making. These include the creation of specialized coordination centers, regional performance indicators, and soft policy instruments.
A key highlight was the presentation by Dr. Soeren Keil from the University of Passau (Germany), who offered valuable insights from European experiences - particularly Berlin’s post-reunification governance model and London’s reforms following 1997. Drawing lessons from these examples, Dr. Keil emphasized the importance of integrated governance, policy flexibility, and the principle of subsidiarity. He also addressed common challenges faced by metropolitan regions, including spatial inequality, population growth, housing shortages, environmental pressures, and infrastructure demands. For Ho Chi Minh City, he recommended a governance framework that is both adaptive and inclusive - supported by strategic investments in infrastructure, data systems, and human capital.
With over three decades of engagement in Vietnam, KAS remains committed to fostering academic and policy dialogue between Germany, the EU, ASEAN, and Vietnam. Expanding its activities to Ho Chi Minh City - a national hub of economic dynamism and innovation - represents a strategic step toward supporting institutional reform and modern urban development.
This conference also coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Germany, underscoring the spirit of strategic cooperation and shared knowledge in shaping the future of Vietnamese cities.
Looking ahead, KAS reaffirms its commitment to working alongside Vietnamese partners in the journey of institutional innovation - contributing to improved quality of life and the development of Ho Chi Minh City as a modern, resilient metropolis.
