Vietnam is still facing challenges developing science and technology to satisfy the demand during international integration, experts said at a conference held in Ho Chi Minh City on November 13.

Dr. Bach Tan Sinh, of the National Institute for Science and Technology Policy and Strategic Studies, said research in the fields was still modest, leaving unsatisfactory results.

He added that information systems, consulting systems, and assessment and science technology transfer system had not been developed well.

With an advanced science and technology level and an improved investment environment, it would be easier for Vietnam to integrate internationally.

At the conference, held by the Ministry of Science and Technology, participants offered their assessments of the current status of science and technology in ASEAN.

Prof. Dr. Duong Nguyen Vu, of Vietnam National University - HCM City, said scientific research was essential for enterprises to produce quality products to compete in the market of the ASEAN Economic Community, which will be established next year.

The experts said that Vietnam should train high-ranking human resources and improve capability of local scientists, as well as develop policy for science technology development that would meet international regulations and standards.

Vietnamese scientists have cooperated with more than 70 countries and territories in the world, but, according to the institute, the capability of Vietnamese scientists is still limited, especially in foreign languages and international relations, among others.

A survey conducted by the institute showed that 73 percent of respondents who were scientific managers said that only 25 percent of their staff could use French or English.

All of the interviewed managers said that scientific research carried out by Vietnamese generally did not have good results, even when there was collaboration with foreign partners.-VNA