At the 21st conference on external relations on December 18, 2023 (Photo: baoquocte.vn)

Held biennially, diplomatic conferences represent pivotal milestones in Vietnam's developmental process. In 2023, which is the mid-term year of implementing the Resolution of the 13th Party Congress, Vietnam conducted multiple diplomatic activities and gained significant achievements despite challenges in politics, economics, defense, security, foreign affairs, and international integration around the world.

Milestones of success

In 2023, Vietnam’s external relations and diplomatic activities reflected the country’s “bamboo diplomacy” and was a highlight of the nation’s overall achievements.

The foreign policy outlined at the 13th National Party Congress foreign policy has been effectively implemented. Enhanced diplomacy created conditions for national development and defense in the new period. 2023 was also a vibrant diplomatic year, with exchanges of phone calls and visits between Vietnamese and foreign Party and State leaders, including visits to Vietnam by Chinese Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, US President Joe Biden, and 50 other world leaders.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son said: "The success of the visits has created new qualitative developments in Vietnam's foreign affairs and international integration. Vietnam has also upgraded its relationship with many important partners and strengthened political trust and cooperation with many countries in a practical and effective manner."

Through bilateral and multilateral diplomatic activities, Vietnam has mobilized external resources for socio-economic development. It has taken advantage of free trade agreements and new development trends to promote trade, attract investment, and boost science and technology in order to maintain macroeconomic stability and promote economic growth.

Vietnam's international reputation has grown. The country was elected a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Vice Chairman of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, and a member of the World Heritage Committee, the International Law Committee, and the UN Human Rights Council for the 2023-2025 term.

Vietnam has contributed to emissions reduction and fighting climate change, sent officers and soldiers to UN peacekeeping missions, and provided humanitarian aid to countries hit by natural disasters and conflicts.

Never before have Vietnam’s international stature, prestige, and image as an independent, resilient country with dynamic development, a trustworthy partner, and an active and responsible member of the international community been as prominent globally as they are now.

Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son said: "Vietnam’s diplomatic achievements are due to efforts by all sectors at all levels and the whole political system, particularly external relations agencies and the diplomatic sector. These achievements have reflected the unique identity of Vietnamese diplomacy which is based on HCM Thought, embraces the soul, spirit, and diplomatic tradition of peace and hospitality of the nation, and selectively absorbs the essence of mankind’s ideology."

Determined to develop a comprehensive, modern diplomacy

The 32nd diplomatic conference will review and evaluate the results of the implementation of the resolution adopted at the 13th National Party Congress, and propose key missions, tasks, and measures that need to be done in the 13th term and the following years.

It will look at a number of major foreign affairs issues, sum up 40 years of Doi moi (Renewal), and find ways to build  a strong, professional, comprehensive, and modern diplomatic sector.