Vietnam's Top Leader Outlines Growth, US Ties, and Foreign Policy Strategy to International Media

General Secretary and President of Vietnam, To Lam, has conveyed strategic messages for a new phase of development in Vietnam during an interview with Bloomberg TV. He stated that after 40 years of "Doi Moi" (renovation), Vietnam has elevated its standing in the international arena and is now entering a phase of contributing to "solution building." Vietnam is committed to independence, self-reliance, and strategic autonomy, while establishing a new development model based on science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and high-quality human resources. General Secretary and President Lam emphasized that a peaceful and prosperous world order can only be built on trust, dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable development, positioning Vietnam as a responsible member of the international community in constructing a "world house." Regarding relations with the United States, Vietnam considers it a strategically vital partner, with economic, trade, and investment ties serving as key drivers for deepening cooperation. He also highlighted the expansion of collaboration in science, technology, AI, and semiconductors. While acknowledging that differences, particularly in trade, are inevitable in a growing relationship, he expressed a commitment to resolving these issues through candid dialogue within the framework of the "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." The intention to build a fair, stable, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship was also stated, with efforts to expedite the signing of an "Agreement on Reciprocal Trade" (ART). Vietnam's foreign policy priorities are consistently determined by national interests and development needs, adhering to principles of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, multilateralism, and diversification. A strategic focus is placed on promoting science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation to enhance economic competitiveness and self-sufficiency. Furthermore, the development of culture and human capital is considered a fundamental pillar, alongside ensuring sustainability, inclusivity, social progress, environmental protection, political stability, and the firm defense of national sovereignty. Concerning the goal of achieving an average annual GDP growth rate exceeding 10% for the 2026-2030 period, General Secretary and President To Lam explained that this target was set after careful consideration of Vietnam's internal capabilities, long-term development vision, and the international context. To achieve this, Vietnam aims for rapid growth coupled with maintaining macroeconomic stability, fundamentally improving growth quality, and enhancing labor productivity, with the people at the center. He expressed full confidence in meeting the set growth targets, citing clear strategic directions and the nation's collective will to overcome challenges. Information Source: VnExpress