Vietnam's Top Leader Conducts Diplomatic Offensive in Europe, Russia

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President To Lam has focused on strengthening diplomatic ties with Russia and France during his visits in early September. During his trip to Russia from September 8-9, Lam held meetings in Moscow with President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Chairwoman of the Federation Council Valentina Matvienko, and Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin. Both sides affirmed the importance of their traditional friendship and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, agreeing to deepen these relations. Notably, the need for breakthroughs in trade cooperation was highlighted, and the Vietnam-Russia science and technology forum discussed strategic technology connectivity. The launch of a new infectious disease prevention and control laboratory was cited as a practical manifestation of scientific cooperation between the two countries. On September 9, Lam held a joint press conference with President Putin in the Kremlin, reiterating the priority Vietnam places on its relationship with Russia in its foreign policy. He was also honored with the 2026 Lev Tolstoy International Peace Prize on the same evening. In France, Lam arrived in Paris on September 10 for an official visit and to attend the International Space Summit at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron. On his first day, he met with Fabien Roussel, Secretary General of the French Communist Party (PCF), expressing hope for the PCF's continued contributions to strengthening political trust and cooperation between the two nations. He also laid a wreath at the Ho Chi Minh Monument in Montreuil. Domestically, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung directed the health sector to resolve supply bottlenecks and establish transparent mechanisms to ensure an adequate supply of medicines and medical equipment at reasonable prices. These diplomatic activities underscore Vietnam's strategic approach to bolstering relationships with key nations as it pursues its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, and diversification. The strong ties with Russia are expected to continue playing a crucial role in Vietnam's security and economic development, while enhanced relations with France signal an effort to broaden engagement with Europe.