Vietnam’s foreign policy remains a central pillar in shaping the country’s future, emphasizing its highest responsibility in maintaining peace and stability while fostering rapid and sustainable socio-economic development.
Ambassador Doan Xuan Hung, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, affirms that diplomacy has significantly contributed to the nation’s progress - especially amid global uncertainty and complex geopolitical dynamics.
“The most important achievement,” he says, “is that we have preserved a peaceful and stable environment for development. Not only have we developed, but we have done so better than before, earning high praise from the international community. That, to me, is the most vital success.”
Leaders of the Party and the State meet with leaders of foreign countries and international organizations. Photo: VNA
According to the former ambassador, Vietnam has not only strengthened its ties with major partners but also expanded its strategic and comprehensive strategic partnerships. This is not merely the result of diplomatic efforts alone, but the combined work of multiple stakeholders, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Party’s external affairs apparatus, state diplomacy, and people-to-people diplomacy at the core.
He notes that in 2025, Vietnam’s external affairs were particularly vibrant. High-level diplomatic engagements helped shape political frameworks and strategic visions for international relations, while also promoting the country’s priorities and aligning with Vietnam’s long-term goals.
Vietnam upgraded its relations with 17 countries, bringing the total number of comprehensive partnerships or higher to 42. The quality and effectiveness of high-level visits improved notably, evidenced by nearly 350 cooperation agreements - 2.5 times more than in 2024.
Drawing from his experience in the Middle East and Africa, Ambassador Hung observes that Vietnam has made deeper inroads in regions previously overlooked. These areas are becoming large markets, and countries in the region now highly value Vietnam’s dynamic growth and international image.
In a milestone development, the draft documents prepared for the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam have elevated “foreign affairs and international integration” to the same level of strategic importance as national defense and security. Ambassador Hung sees this as a welcome shift long desired by generations of diplomats.
Ambassador Doan Xuan Hung, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Photo: VNA
“With 40 years in the diplomatic field, this is wonderful news for those of us in foreign affairs,” he said. “This is not only about the interests of the diplomatic sector but about the close connection between diplomacy, defense, and security - together forming a comprehensive force.”
This alignment between diplomacy, defense, and security is now conceptualized as a unified strategy to safeguard the nation peacefully, preemptively, and in accordance with international law. It reflects Vietnam’s modern, flexible, and proactive approach to a rapidly evolving global and regional security environment.
“Diplomacy must take the lead. Once it is officially considered a regular, vital task, the state will provide resources, funding, human capital, and create mechanisms for close coordination between these three strategic pillars. This will unleash enormous power for the country,” he emphasized.
A strategic policy of autonomy
From the perspective of international friends, Ambassador of Palestine to Vietnam Saadi Salama shared his honor in being invited to the opening of the 14th Party Congress - a meaningful event not only for the Vietnamese people but also for the region and global community.
This marks his fifth time attending a Party Congress in Vietnam. At the 5th Congress in 1982, he was a student in Vietnam and part of the invited Palestinian delegation. He continued to attend subsequent congresses in 1991, 2011, 2016, 2021, and now, in 2026, as Ambassador.
“At every stage in its history, Vietnam has sought ways to realize the aspirations of its people - to build a strong, developed nation and protect its sovereignty. This has been the clear and unwavering platform of the Communist Party of Vietnam,” he remarked.
Ambassador of Palestine to Vietnam Saadi Salama.
With more than 90 years of Party leadership experience, he believes the Congress will issue resolutions that serve the people’s interests, promote cooperation and development, and advance global peace.
Ambassador Salama also highlighted Vietnam’s unique strength in turning adversity into opportunity. The Vietnamese people deeply understand the value of national independence and the importance of development.
“In Arabic, we have a proverb that says: ‘No one can scratch your back better than yourself.’ That’s why I believe Vietnam’s strategy of autonomy, independence, and self-reliance is truly strategic,” he stated.
He particularly praised Vietnam’s steadfast commitment to economic growth, ensuring public well-being, maintaining peace and order, and fostering a business-friendly environment for sustainable development - even amid fierce global economic and trade competition.
Meanwhile, Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Vietnam, emphasized the country’s remarkable progress over the past three decades - from lifting millions out of poverty to advancing industrial development and expanding social protection.
Pauline Tamesis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Vietnam. Photo: UN Vietnam
Vietnam, she said, has shown the world what resilience and visionary leadership can achieve. With a per capita national income of around USD 4,000, Vietnam is now on the cusp of becoming a high-middle-income country. Poverty rates have reached historic lows, and the nation is classified among countries with high human development.
“These are achievements worthy of recognition and pride,” she noted.
What truly makes Vietnam’s story inspiring, she added, is not just the figures but the country’s determination to ensure growth translates into a better life for all. Vietnam’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development is rooted in a human-centered approach.
She noted that Vietnam’s next targets are even more ambitious: achieving high-income status by 2045 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
The UN has pledged to support Vietnam through the upcoming 2027–2031 Cooperation Framework, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, the country’s aspirations for high income, and its climate commitments.
“We can ensure that Vietnam’s story continues to inspire the world - not only as a rising nation but as a leading one, with vision, inclusivity, and sustainability. I wish the 14th Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam great success,” she said.
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