Vietnamese diaspora in India acts as practical bridge between two nations: diplomat

The Vietnamese community residing in India can serve as a practical bridge between Vietnam and India, strengthening people-to-people ties and creating opportunities for cooperation in various fields such as trade, investment, science and technology, and education, a Vietnamese diplomat in India stated. This perspective aligns with Vietnam's broader strategy of leveraging its overseas diaspora (Vietnamese expatriates, or Viet Kieu) as a valuable resource for national development under its one-party system. Viet Kieu are expected to play a significant role not only in economic contributions but also in cultural exchange and enhancing Vietnam's soft power. In recent years, the Vietnamese government has intensified efforts to engage with its expatriate communities, encouraging activities that foster deeper connections with their homeland and boost Vietnam's presence on the international stage. This strategy is also linked to Vietnam's ambition to expand its global influence amidst its continued economic growth, potentially seeking to diversify partnerships and reduce relative reliance on China. The diplomat's remarks emphasize the proactive role Viet Kieu can play as "practical bridges" for tangible cooperation, rather than just being members of the diaspora. This suggests that expatriate communities will increasingly hold a significant position in Vietnam's diplomatic and economic strategies. Source: VietnamPlus English