Vietnam's Top Leader Meets Thai PM, Fijian President in New York

Vietnamese Party General Secretary and President Tô Lâm met with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Fijian President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu in New York on September 22, 2026 (local time), on the occasion of his attendance at the opening of the 81st UN General Assembly High-Level General Debate. During these meetings, discussions are believed to have focused on exchanging views on specific measures to promote regional cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations. Vietnam places importance on its relationship with Thailand, a key member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), and aims to maintain and enhance cooperation for regional stability and development. Strengthening ties with Fiji, a Pacific island nation, may also be seen as part of Vietnam's diversified foreign policy. Earlier, General Secretary and President Tô Lâm also met with Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy Hugh F. Shiu, where he commended the contributions of Vietnamese-American experts and intellectuals. He also gave an interview to Bloomberg TV, reportedly sharing his views on Vietnam's economic growth and its role in the international community. These meetings are noteworthy as part of Vietnam's diplomatic strategy to enhance its international presence and build relationships with a diverse range of countries. Vietnam, in particular, which continues its economic growth, has expressed its intention to contribute to regional and global stability, and these meetings can be seen as a platform for such declarations.