Vietnam President Delivers Policy Speech at Canadian Parliament, Emphasizes Strengthening Strategic Partnership

As part of his state visit to Canada, Vietnamese President Tô Lâm delivered a policy speech titled "Vietnam-Canada Strategic Partnership in a Volatile Global Context" at the Parliament of Canada in Ottawa on the afternoon of September 24 (local time). The speech focused on the current state and future prospects of the strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to address challenges amidst a volatile international landscape. Vietnam reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism and its role as a constructive player in the global community. Prior to the speech, President Tô Lâm held meetings with the Canada-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians Group, the Speakers of the Canadian Senate and House of Commons, Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Governor General Louise Arbour. These engagements served as opportunities for dialogue aimed at deepening bilateral political and economic ties. Since establishing their strategic partnership in 2017, Vietnam and Canada have expanded cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, investment, education, and environmental protection. Given Vietnam's economic growth and Canada's resources and technology, there is significant potential for further collaboration. Vietnam's economic development under its one-party system actively attracts foreign investment while also necessitating the refinement of its domestic legal and social structures. Furthermore, for Vietnam, which navigates a complex relationship with China, strengthening ties with Western nations like Canada is crucial for maintaining diplomatic balance.