In an article titled "Economic diplomacy's strong transformation for the nation's prosperous development", Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the special importance of economic diplomacy, contributing to "guiding the way, paving the path" to attract resources, create opportunities, and open new avenues for Vietnam to develop rapidly and sustainably in the new era, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Vietnam has signed and participated in 17 free trade agreements (FTAs) and maintains diplomatic relations with 194 countries, including all members of the United Nations. The nation has established comprehensive partnership frameworks or higher with 42 countries, including 17 G20 members, and has comprehensive strategic partnerships with all five permanent members of the UN Security Council.

Vietnam has also undertaken many important multilateral responsibilities, such as being re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term, hosting the ASEAN Future Forum, the 4th Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit, and the Signing Ceremony for the Convention on Countering Cybercrime.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the Opening Ceremony of the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers' Meeting (ADGMIN), 15/1. Photo: Giang Huy

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the Opening Ceremony of the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers' Meeting (ADGMIN), 15/1. Photo: Giang Huy

The Prime Minister noted that economic diplomacy faces three major responsibilities moving forward. These include contributing to creating strategic space for the nation, removing bottlenecks, and solving significant challenges to foster breakthroughs in growth and development, especially by promoting science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and green transformation. The third responsibility is to build an independent, self-reliant economy while proactively and actively integrating internationally.

To fulfill these responsibilities, the Prime Minister highlighted three important lessons for economic and technological diplomacy. First, it is crucial to adhere to the path of national independence and socialism, and to remain steadfast in an independent, self-reliant, multilateralized, diversified, proactive, and active international integration foreign policy.

The second lesson emphasizes firmness yet flexibility, protecting national interests while remaining adaptable in implementation to achieve objectives. Third, it is essential to deeply understand the situation and advise on timely, flexible, and appropriate policy responses.

The Prime Minister stressed that economic diplomacy must also undergo a strong shift in mindset, closely following "5 'more' principles": more strategic and astute; more focused and targeted; more expansive and profound; more decisive and innovative; and more proactive and responsible.

"From a country whose name was not widely known on the world map, Vietnam today possesses increasing potential, standing, and international prestige," the Prime Minister stated.

In 2025, Vietnam's GDP growth reached 8.02%, placing it among the high-growth countries in the region and the world. The economy's size in 2025 reached approximately 514 billion USD, and estimated per capita GDP reached 5,026 USD, moving Vietnam into the upper-middle-income country group. Vietnam is among the top 15 developing countries globally for attracting foreign investment and among the top 20 countries worldwide in terms of trade volume.