During the meeting, Sumitomo Group's President and CEO for Asia and Oceania Shiomi Keigo mentioned that the company is a large investment and trading group with operations in 166 countries and regions, and a workforce of 75,000 worldwide. In Vietnam and specifically Hanoi, Sumitomo is currently partnering with BRG Group to implement a significant Smart City project in the North of Hanoi.
The Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam, Yamada Takio, expressed his expectation that the Smart City project in the North of Hanoi will commence in 2023, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Japan. Ambassador Takio hopes that the project will become a symbol of collaboration between the two countries. Shiomi Keigo expressed his aspirations for the support of Hanoi's leaders to expedite the process of adjusting the 1/500 plan for the project, which will enable the construction to commence during the anniversary celebrations. The project aims to enhance the lives of the capital's inhabitants and become Vietnam's new prominent international urban center, added Shiomi Keigo.
The Chairman of the City People's Committee, Tran Sy Thanh, expressed his appreciation for the importance of the Smart City project in the development of Hanoi's future. The city has been working to remove obstacles and accelerate the project's progress, and the site clearance has met the necessary requirements. The city will continue to listen to and address the challenges that may arise during the project implementation, and will focus on adjusting the 1/500 master plan and implementing the plan in time for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan relations, said Thanh.
Nguyen Thi Nga, the Chairwoman of BRG Group, expressed her hope that the project will start soon and contribute to the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan relations. She informed that the project will offer six smart solutions covering energy, transportation, administration, education, economy, and living. During the meeting, representatives from Sumitomo, BRG, and the city government discussed and exchanged ideas regarding the project implementation. They also worked to identify and resolve any issues to ensure that the project proceeds smoothly, while complying with Vietnamese laws and protecting business interests.