In a complex global geopolitical context, the role of the National Assembly goes beyond its traditional legislative function and becomes a true extension of national foreign policy.
This declaration was made by Mr. Phan Kien Cuong, economic arbitrator of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Vienna, and Deputy Director of the Center for Economic and Trade Development Advisory of Vietnam (VICENDETI), during an interview with a journalist from VNA in Prague.
Mr. Phan Kien Cuong stated that it was necessary to focus on four strategic pillars to promote inter-parliamentary cooperation and elevate the level of legislative diplomacy to serve Vietnam’s development goals in the next term.
Firstly, transitioning from a logic of “participation” to a logic of “proactive leadership” within multilateral institutions is necessary. Mr. Phan Kien Cuong suggested that the 16th National Assembly of Vietnam continue to strengthen its position within organizations such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), and Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) by proactively proposing innovative legal frameworks.
This is particularly important in emerging but essential areas of the digital age, such as cross-border cybersecurity governance, artificial intelligence ethics, and fair trade standards. Vietnam’s contribution to shaping international rules will give it a competitive advantage on the global political stage.
Secondly, promoting law integration and harmonization is necessary to foster deeper integration. According to Mr. Phan Kien Cuong, the most effective legislative diplomacy involves implementing commitments. In the new legislature, following the resolution of the 14th National Assembly, priority should be given to coordinating the integration of international standards from next-generation agreements (such as the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)).
Establishing a legal system in line with the most demanding international standards not only protects national interests but also signifies a commitment to a transparent and trustworthy investment environment.
Thirdly, enhancing “thematic diplomacy” between specialized committees is necessary. Mr. Phan Kien Cuong emphasized the importance of focusing on substantive issues through direct exchanges between Vietnam’s economic, legal, and scientific and technological committees and their parliamentary counterparts in developing countries, notably within the European Union (EU).
Technocratic exchanges on legislative experience regarding energy transition and circular economy will help Vietnam expedite its institutional development, directly contributing to the realization of sustainable development goals set by the Party.
Finally, strengthening the mechanism of controlling international agreements is an essential element of the fourth strategic pillar. Mr. Phan Kien Cuong highlighted that the development of legislative diplomacy also depends on the National Assembly’s ability to effectively oversee the implementation of international agreements and treaties signed by the government.
This ensures that resources from international cooperation are allocated appropriately, promoting local and national economic development and providing timely political responses to guide foreign relations in the most advantageous direction.
According to Mr. Phan Kien Cuong, as Vietnam aims to become a high-income developed country in a new era, legislative diplomacy must pioneer institutional development. A reformed, streamlined, and integrated 16th National Assembly will be the most important guarantee to lead Vietnam towards the future.
Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/chuyen-gia-kinh-te-tai-sec-nang-tam-ngoai-giao-lap-phap-trong-ky-nguyen-moi-post1099241.vnp
