Vietnam Enhances Local Diplomacy to Accelerate National Development

On August 2nd, in Hanoi, within the framework of the 33rd Diplomatic Conference, the 22nd National Foreign Affairs Conference was held. The theme of the conference was "Enhancing the level of local foreign affairs work, effectively mobilizing international resources to support development." Speaking at the conference, Comrade Le Hoai Trung, Member of the Politburo and Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Vietnam has achieved many important accomplishments in terms of international potential, position, and prestige in recent times. However, he pointed out that the country has truly entered a new development phase with very specific and practical requirements. This conference, as part of Vietnam's national development strategy under the one-party system, aims to strengthen diplomatic activities at the local level and more effectively attract investment, technology, and know-how from the international community. Vietnam is promoting active international exchanges at the local government level, in addition to traditional central government diplomacy, to maintain and accelerate economic growth. This is considered essential for achieving specific development goals, particularly in infrastructure development, attracting manufacturing industries, and promoting tourism in economic zones and major cities. In its relations with China, Vietnam maintains economic ties while pursuing a foreign policy that balances geopolitical considerations. The enhancement of local diplomacy can also be interpreted as part of a strategy to build relationships with diverse international partners and reduce dependence on any single country. This allows Vietnam to secure its own diplomatic space and sustain economic growth while protecting its sovereignty and national interests.