The resolution approving the appointment of new government members was passed by the National Assembly during its working session on the morning of 8/4.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Phan Van Giang is 66 years old and a native of Hong Quang ward, Ninh Binh province. He holds a doctorate in military science. He has served as a member of the Party Central Committee for three consecutive terms, from the 12th to the 14th; a Politburo member for two terms, the 13th and 14th; and a National Assembly delegate for two terms, the 15th and 16th.

Phan Van Giang previously held numerous positions, including Commander of Military Corps one, Deputy Chief of General Staff, and Deputy Minister of National Defense and Chief of General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army. In 4/2021, he was approved by the National Assembly as Minister of National Defense. In 10/2023, he received the highest confidence vote among government members during the National Assembly's confidence vote session.

General Phan Van Giang, minister of national defense. *Photo: Giang Huy*

During his 2021-2026 term, General Phan Van Giang directed efforts to accelerate military modernization, streamline organization, and reduce intermediate leadership. He largely achieved the goal of building a lean, modern military by 2025. Concurrently, he promoted equipment modernization through defense industry development, enhancing self-production capacity and bolstering equipment for the Navy and Air Force.

Addressing the Army Party Congress in 9/2025, General Secretary To Lam assigned the task of building a "revolutionary, regular, elite, and modern" army. He emphasized that modernization must be relative to regional and global standards, not just compared to "our past achievements".

To achieve this objective, the Ministry of National Defense must prioritize developing a self-reliant, self-sufficient, dual-use, and modern defense industry. This includes promoting science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation in accordance with Politburo Resolution 57.

Additionally, the defense sector will continue to strengthen bilateral and multilateral defense cooperation, managing relationships harmoniously and flexibly amidst great power competition. This approach aims to maintain strategic balance, contribute to a peaceful and stable environment, and protect the nation early and from afar.

Another key task for the Ministry at this stage is to proactively assess trends and provide timely advice on military and defense strategic responses. These measures are crucial for preventing war and conflict, ensuring domestic stability, and fostering a favorable external environment.

Son Ha