Vietnam-Russia Associations to Boost People-to-People Diplomacy

Vietnam and Russia are strengthening people-to-people diplomacy and cooperation to further deepen bilateral relations. Russia, particularly Saint Petersburg, attaches great importance to enhancing ties with Vietnam, expressing hope for increased exchanges between high-level parliamentary delegations and broader cooperation with Vietnamese localities. This initiative is being solidified through an agreement between Vietnamese and Russian media organizations. Le Quoc Minh, member of the Party Central Committee and President of the Vietnam Journalists Association, and Sergei Kochetkov, First Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Rossiya Segodnya, have signed a pact to boost information sharing and media collaboration, seen as a testament to the trust underpinning the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Vietnamese Minister of Justice Hoang Thanh Tung highlighted the significance of being invited as the sole guest country to a forum, underscoring the trust and close ties between Vietnam and Russia. He praised the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a foundation for this cooperation. Beyond government-level interactions, efforts are underway to make history and culture more accessible to younger generations through creative approaches, fostering a deeper appreciation for peace and national pride. Vietnamese Ambassador to China Pham Thanh Binh noted the strong participation from businesses and young people in bilateral cooperation, indicating a multi-faceted approach to international relations. Domestically, Vietnam is focused on improving citizens' lives and infrastructure. Ho Chi Minh City plans to introduce a free textbook loan program for all students from the 2026-2027 academic year. The increasing interest in STEM majors among university applicants reflects a focus on future industry development. Concurrently, Vietnam continues its efforts to honor war martyrs and investigate historical remains, underscoring a commitment to national memory and peace. Economic considerations include proposed regional minimum wage increases, aimed at stabilizing livelihoods, though natural disasters have caused significant economic losses, particularly in northern provinces. Vietnam is also engaging in international youth exchanges, such as visits from French Scout and Guide groups. These initiatives contribute to Vietnam's broader foreign policy of diversification and aim to enhance its overall international standing. Under its one-party system, Vietnam prioritizes social stability and development, with continuous implementation of policies to improve citizens' lives. The strengthening relationship with Russia is part of this diversified foreign policy, seeking to bolster Vietnam's global presence.