The most effective tool for protecting national and ethnic interests.

First, the point of view according to which “the strengthening of national defense and security, as well as the promotion of external relations and international integration, are crucial and permanent issues” is fundamental. The Party’s new thinking values ​​the strategic role of external relations; at the same time, it imposes high demands, requiring that external relations be at the forefront, at the heart of priorities, and that they make it possible to clearly and precisely identify, upstream and remotely, the risks of confrontation, conflict and war. It recommends countermeasures to mitigate these risks according to the principle of “transforming major problems into minor problems, and minor problems into nothingness”, thus contributing to consolidating a climate of peace, stability, friendship and cooperative development.

Second, Foreign relations are both an effective tool for protecting higher national interests and a means of demonstrating Vietnam’s character, identity and prestige on the international stage. We not only draw inspiration from the best of humanity, but we also spread the values ​​of Vietnamese civilization.

External relations are the means by which Vietnam connects to the world and the world to Vietnam, as we have always done and as we wish to do. Therefore, economic diplomacy is an essential task: developing markets, attracting capital and technology, and participating actively and effectively in global supply and production chains.

Third, foreign policy is based on a new position, a spirit and a desire for “strategic autonomy”, “self-sufficiency” and “self-confidence”. This spirit gives us the strength to identify and overcome challenges in a context of strong geopolitical competition and great power rivalry in the world and the region.

Foreign policy must fully grasp the deeper meaning of the notions of “autonomy”, “internal strength” and “self-confidence” expressed in the resolution and in the Secretary’s remarks general and president To Lam. It is then up to him to translate them into concrete actions.

Fourthly, This perspective describes the method of “rising to the rank of a new mission, guaranteeing the highest national interests” by “taking as its foundation peace, independence, autonomy and internal strength”, by ” placing the people at the center of all policies” and “considering contributions to the international community as a responsibility.” We understand and will continue to understand and act in accordance with this approach.

The opening speech of the Secretary-General and the President at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 and Vietnam’s successful hosting of the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 clearly demonstrate a shift in mentality from an “active member” role to adapt to the region and the world as a participant in “developing the rules of the game”, “proactive creation” and leadership in the region, which has been recognized and highly appreciated by international public opinion.

Fifth, the perspective is to create and maximize the overall strength of the nation and the people. This is based on close, synchronized and dialectical coordination of three pillars: Party diplomacy, state diplomacy and diplomacy between peoples; close coordination in the areas of defence, security, foreign affairs and others; between central ministries and agencies, with broad participation from local communities, businesses and the population; and a judicious combination of various tools…

Delegates pose for a group photo at the ASEAN Future Forum. (Photo: Quang Hoa)

Transform “soft power” into an effective tool.

The Party’s positions define the direction and perspective of Vietnamese diplomacy aimed at identifying and solving Vietnam’s problems related to the region and the world, translating thinking and awareness into concrete actions. In this spirit, the resolution and the speech of Secretary General and President To Lam focused on five main directions.

First, we must take advantage of the pioneering role of foreign policy, preventing crises at a distance and at their source, and creating an international environment favorable to the country. The main thing is to prioritize the preservation and development of relations with neighboring countries, to strengthen political trust, to establish strategic links in the areas of infrastructure, energy, logistics, culture, science and technology, to interweave long-term interests, to coordinate closely handle our actions, manage disagreements, harmoniously address emerging issues, and resolve disputes by peaceful means.

Major Powers must actively engage in shaping, maintaining and developing balanced, harmonious and mutually beneficial relations, avoiding confrontation and dependence. Together with their partners, it is necessary to make substantial changes and optimize the potential of existing cooperation frameworks and free trade agreements.

To achieve this ambitious vision, it is necessary to strengthen autonomy, strategic governance, the quality of research and forecasting, as well as strategic advisory services; and deepen cooperation in defence, security, cyber security and other complex and sensitive areas that help build trust and strengthen relationships.

External relations are the means by which we promote Vietnam to the world and bring the world to Vietnam, as we have always done and as we aspire to do. (Source: Vietnam.vn)

Second, foreign policy creates a dynamic favoring the expansion of new development spaces and opportunities, closely linked to the country’s socio-economic development process, and responds to the main challenges facing Vietnam. The emphasis is on moving from a foreign policy focused on “attraction” to one focused on “selection” and improving the quality of external resources for progress. strategic.

By diversifying markets, partners and sources of supply; by favoring high-tech projects; establishing close national ties; and by transferring technologies…; by transforming positive political relations into concrete cooperation projects and programs; and anticipating new trends…

Third, demonstrate global responsibility and contribute to the common challenges of the international community. By promoting a positive vision, proposing innovative ideas and contributing to the restoration of trust and the effectiveness of multilateralism. Actively contribute to the protection of the world order based on international law and the Charter of the United Nations. Take advantage of its new assets and capabilities, play a leading role and participate in the development of appropriate multilateral mechanisms. Participate proactively and actively in responding to global challenges, building on Vietnam’s strengths in food security and peacekeeping operations within the framework of the United Nations.

Fourthly, it is appropriate to elevate the status of the nation commensurate with its historical importance, cultural identity, economic potential and growing political role, thereby contributing to human civilization. Foreign policy must be firmly based on the foundations, position, potential and assets of the nation and its people, transforming “soft power” into an effective tool, strengthening the capacity to manage international issues in a harmonious, reasonable and equitable manner, in accordance with international law, and to obtain the sympathy and support of the international community.

Leverage the role and resources of the overseas Vietnamese community to attract funds for national development; disseminate to the international community the image of an autonomous, innovative, humane, proactive, positive and responsible Vietnam.

Fifth, build a comprehensive, modern and professional diplomacy that meets the requirements and challenges of the new era; rise to the level of leading countries in the region and reach international standards. This is the objective and the condition for diplomacy to implement the Party’s orientations.

To do this, it is necessary to build a system of foreign policy theory adapted to the new era; to organize a scientific apparatus; to allocate resources in a coordinated manner; and to build a complete team of executives who promote national values ​​and meet international standards, in line with the position and power of the country.

The Party’s resolution sets high and precise objectives; identifies five key perspectives; and defines five main directions for foreign policy to reach a higher level, contributing more to the country, in line with its “pioneer” and “crucial and permanent” role.

Glorious mission, immense responsibility and solid foundation give foreign policy the impetus to seize opportunities, overcome challenges, work diligently, live up to the trust of the Party and the people, and walk alongside the country and the nation in this new Era.