As Vietnam adapts to a rapidly changing world, its innovative foreign policy has played a crucial role in strengthening the country’s global position, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and development.
The 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam declared: "Our nation has never before attained such stature, power, and international prestige as it has today." This achievement is attributed significantly to the country's progressive foreign policy.
The 1980s witnessed the collapse of socialism in the Soviet Union and a wave of geopolitical shifts that compelled nations, including Vietnam, to rethink their internal and external policies to survive and thrive. For Vietnam, the imperative was clear: it had to extricate itself from economic and social crises, break free from international isolation, and open itself up to global engagement.
Vietnam’s diplomatic evolution can be segmented into three distinct phases:
1986-1995: Establishing New Diplomatic Foundations and Breaking Isolation
In May 1988, the 6th Politburo issued Resolution No. 13 on "tasks and foreign policy in the new situation." This was the first thematic resolution of the renewal period, marking a breakthrough in foreign policy thinking. Illustrative photo.
The 6th Party Congress in 1986 marked the beginning of Vietnam's comprehensive reform, including a fundamental shift in foreign policy. The turning point came in May 1988 with the 13th Resolution of the Politburo, which laid the groundwork for transitioning Vietnam’s foreign relations from confrontation to peaceful coexistence and development.
The 7th Party Congress (June 1991) established the principle that Vietnam "wants to be friends" with all countries in the international community, striving for peace, independence, and development. The resolution of the 3rd Plenum of the 7th Party Central Committee (June 1992) introduced the policy of "Diversification and multilateralization of foreign relations"; "Maintaining both cooperation and struggle in relations with all partners"; and "Expanding relations with all countries, with a focus on relations with major powers." This resolution marked the formation of the Party's foreign policy for the comprehensive renewal period of the country.
This period was marked by a series of strategic decisions, including normalizing relations with China in 1991 and the United States in 1995, joining ASEAN in 1995, and broadening diplomatic ties with neighboring and global powers. These moves were instrumental in lifting Vietnam out of international isolation and establishing it as a significant regional player.
1996-2010: Expanding Diplomatic Relations and Global Economic Integration
The 8th Party Congress in July 1996 emphasized building an open economy and integrating into the global economy. By 2001, Vietnam had established itself as a "friend and reliable partner" in the international community.
The 2003 Party Central Committee Resolution highlighted the need to distinguish between partners and adversaries, promoting the expansion of strategic partnerships worldwide.
The 10th Party Congress (April 2006) emphasized deepening and stabilizing the established international relations in a sustainable manner. Vietnam aims to be a friend and reliable partner to countries within the international community, having established a wide network of friends and partners. The country actively participates in international and regional cooperation processes, having joined numerous international and regional organizations.
Vietnam’s entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2006 and its active participation in international organizations and forums such as the United Nations and APEC further solidified its global position, paving the way for deeper economic and diplomatic integration.
2011 to Present: Deepening Diplomatic Relations and Comprehensive Global Integration
Participating in United Nations peacekeeping activities contributes to enhancing Vietnam's position and role in global security, peace, and stability. Photo: VNA
The 11th Party Congress in 2011 marked a significant shift from economic integration to comprehensive international integration. Vietnam was now positioned as a "trustworthy friend and responsible member" of the global community. The 13th Party Congress in January 2021 further emphasized the protection of national interests through adherence to international law, equitable cooperation, and mutual benefit.
Vietnam’s diplomatic relations have since matured, with the nation establishing partnerships with 193 countries and participating in over 70 international organizations. Notably, Vietnam has cultivated special partnerships with key nations and strategic partnerships with many global powers, reflecting its growing influence on the world stage.
Vietnam’s active role in global forums, including its tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and its successful hosting of major international conferences, underscores its commitment to global peace, security, and development.
The comprehensive evolution of Vietnam's foreign policy has not only elevated its international standing but also played a critical role in shaping the nation’s future as a key player on the global stage.
Vietnamnet.vn
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