Today, participating online from Saint Petersburg, Valery Gergiev, Chairman of the Jury and a Russian People's Artist, emphasized Vietnam's transformation into one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region. He noted that the country has simultaneously maintained its distinct cultural identity within the world's diverse landscape, according to TTXVN. Gergiev also serves as the general director of the Bolshoi Theater and the artistic director and director of the Mariinsky Theater.

Members of the Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize Jury specifically recognized the contributions of Vietnam's leadership. These contributions include nation-building, advancing global justice, upholding international law, and promoting Vietnam's traditions of peace, humanity, and dialogue worldwide.

General Secretary, President To Lam. Photo: Giang Huy

Other jury representatives, including Vladimir Tolstoy, general director of the Lev N. Tolstoy State Museum and a descendant of the great writer, French social activist Pierre de Gaulle, and Lindiwe Sisulu, a member of the African National Congress National Executive Committee and a South African Member of Parliament, specifically acknowledged Vietnam's success in development and integration. Vietnam, having been almost completely devastated by war, has recovered and demonstrated remarkable economic growth, serving as an inspiration for many nations worldwide in their pursuit of peace.

Recognizing these achievements, all jury members unanimously voted to award the 2026 Lev N. Tolstoy prize to Vietnam's top leader, General Secretary, President To Lam. This decision serves as an affirmation of mutual understanding and cooperation among nations.

This marks the third time the Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize has been awarded. In 2024, the inaugural award went to the African Union for its significant contributions to strengthening peace. In 2025, the recipients were Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov, Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon, and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The award is selected by an international council comprising esteemed political, social, and cultural figures from Argentina, Belarus, India, China, the Russian Federation, France, South Africa, and Japan.