Vietnam Approves Action Plan for ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan Implementation

SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIET NAM Government News Thuy Dung The Vietnamese government has approved an action plan for the implementation of the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan. This plan aims to strengthen physical, institutional, and people-to-people linkages across the ASEAN region, fostering greater integration. The action plan will serve as a foundation for ministries, agencies, and relevant bodies to coordinate and implement the strategic plan. The ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan focuses on six strategic areas to support the realization of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045: (i) Sustainable Infrastructure; (ii) Smart and Sustainable Urban Development; (iii) Digital Innovation; (iv) Seamless Logistics and Supply Chain; (v) Regulatory Excellence and Cooperation; (vi) People-to-People Connectivity. These strategic areas are interconnected and will be pursued holistically, allowing for greater synergy and coordination across sectors and with the ASEAN Community Pillars. It is also expected to contribute to narrowing the development gap. Vietnam's active participation in this strategic plan underscores its commitment to strengthening its role as a regional hub and promoting infrastructure development and digitalization, which are crucial for economic growth and stability. Within its one-party system, the Vietnamese government prioritizes economic development and seeks to balance this with expanding its international influence through regional cooperation frameworks. In the context of complex relations with China, enhancing connectivity within ASEAN is also a significant aspect of Vietnam's foreign and security strategy.