Vietnam News Today (August 30): Vietnam Ensures Absolute Safety, Security for Independence Day Parade
	Vietnam News Today (Sept. 1): Vietnamese Party chief hosts reception for visiting top Chinese legislator

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (left) and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Tianjin, China, September 1, 2025. Photo: VGP

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh meets Russian President Putin in Tianjin

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in China's Tianjin on September 1.

Prime Minister Pham conveyed the greetings from General Secretary To Lam, State President Luong Cuong and other senior Vietnamese leaders to President Putin.

Pham thanked President Putin for his congratulations extended to Vietnam on the occasion of the 80^th anniversary of the August Revolution and the National Day of Vietnam.

He also thanked Russia for sending a delegation led by First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation is Vladimir Yakushev to attend the grand ceremony, as well as the military delegation to join the military parade marking the 80^th anniversary of the August Revolution and the National Day, saying these guestures reflect Russia's affection and regard for Vietnam's struggle for national independence.

Prime Minister Pham affirmed Vietnam attaches great importance to the traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, considering Russia as one of Vietnam's top partners, cited VGP.

Both sides expressed their pleasure at the remarkable advancements of the bilateral ties, especially after General Secretary To Lam's official visit to Russia last May.

The same day, Prime Minister Pham met with General Secretary and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

PM trip for SCO Summit 2025 a success: Deputy FM

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's trip to Tianjin, China, for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit 2025 was a success with diverse bilateral and multilateral activities, Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu told the press.

Vu highlighted two major outcomes of the trip, spanning from August 31 to September 1.

First, as a guest of the host country, the PM delivered a keynote speech at the summit. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s stance of supporting and upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.

PM Chinh underlined the Party and State's consistent foreign policy as well as the country’s positive contributions to peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world.

Particularly, he put forward three major proposals - promoting multilateralism, solidarity and international cooperation in addressing both traditional and non-traditional security challenges; mobilising more resources for development and enhance global governance capacity, stressing that all countries, especially major powers, must shoulder responsibility, take the lead and stand side by side with the United Nations in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals; and strengthening trust, mutual understanding and win-win cooperation, particularly among neighbors, thereby fostering broader regional and global linkages.

He also called for stronger cooperation between the SCO, the United Nations and ASEAN in consolidating a UN-centred international system.

Second, on the sidelines of the summit, PM Chinh and the Vietnamese delegation held sincere, open and effective bilateral meetings with leaders from Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, Southeast Europe and various international organizations. These meetings helped to consolidate and deepen Vietnam’s bilateral ties across priority areas such as strategic infrastructure, agriculture, energy, nuclear power, digital transformation and green transition, according to VNA.

Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu (Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

In discussions with the Vietnamese PM, foreign leaders and international partners expressed their impression at Vietnam’s historic struggle for independence and liberation, as well as respect for the country’s remarkable socio-economic achievements today.

They emphasized Vietnam’s increasing role and position in the international arena, voicing a strong desire to further strengthen cooperation with Vietnam across multiple sectors, while agreeing on concrete measures to deepen relations in a substantive and effective manner, according to Vu.

He said during the working trip, China extended a warm welcome to the Vietnamese PM and his entourage, reflecting its special regard for Vietnam. During meetings with Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping and top Chinese leaders, including Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Wang Huning, both sides agreed on major measures to advance ties under the six major orientations, with three major focuses: effectively realising joint statements already reached, strengthening strategic exchanges with an emphasis on national defense-security cooperation, and maintaining close multilateral coordination to tackle global and regional challenges.

On practical cooperation, the two countries committed to comprehensive economic connectivity, particularly in railways and energy, while boosting collaboration in science-technology and innovation. China agreed to press forward with a feasibility study for the Lao Cai–Hanoi–Hai Phong railway, and explore financing, investment, workforce training and railway industry development. The host also promised to import more Vietnamese agricultural products and accelerate the construction of smart border gates, moves seen as vital to meeting their shared goal of breakthrough development in the next period. The Vietnamese Prime Minister also met with several leading Chinese enterprises to push forward concrete projects, Vu said.

The two nations further agreed to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Joint activities during the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchanges are also planned, alongside celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the “Red Journey” study tours aimed at consolidating public support for bilateral ties.

On sea issues, both sides vowed to continue seriously realising the high-level common perceptions to properly manage and resolve differences; respect each other’s legitimate interests in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS); work with ASEAN partners toward a substantive, effective and efficient Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC), and maintain a peaceful, stable environment conducive to development in each country and the region.

Overall, Vu said the trip’s important outcomes would translate the two Parties and States’ consensus into concrete projects and cooperation frameworks. These are expected to deliver direct benefits to citizens and businesses in both nations, while fostering a more stable, healthy and substantive Vietnam–China relations, contributing to global and regional peace, cooperation and development.

Cambodian People's Party Honorary President praises Vietnam’s great victory

The presence by President of the Cambodian Senate and President of the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) Samdech Techo Hun Sen at Vietnam’s 80th National Day grand celebration demonstrates the traditional friendship, solidarity, and all-round cooperation between the two countries, and also reflects the highest regard for their political and diplomatic relations.

CPP Honorary President Samdech Heng Samrin made the statement in an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency’s correspondents in Phnom Penh.

Heng Samrin, who is also Honorary Chairman of the Supreme Advisory Council to the King of Cambodia, said that this visit is an opportunity to consolidate and expand people-to-people relations, promote cultural and tourism exchanges, and enhance mutual understanding between the two countries.

The participation of the high-ranking Cambodian delegation also carries symbolic significance, highlighting traditional friendship, respect for history, and shared values, while also opening a new step forward in bilateral cooperation towards a sustainable future.

He stressed that the August Revolution on August 19, 1945 and the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945 were historic events of great significance not only for the Vietnamese people but also for the national liberation movements around the world, particularly in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia.

The August Revolution was the most important event in the modern history of the Vietnamese people, bearing decisive meaning for the destiny of the Vietnamese nation up to this day, he stated, assessing that it was not only a victory in the struggle for state power but also a glorious milestone marking the end of centuries of colonial and feudal rule, opening a new era - the era of independence and freedom for the Vietnamese people.

The CPP Honorary President took the occasion to extend his congratulations to the Vietnamese Party, State, and people on this great victory.

According to him, the August Revolution left behind many profound historical lessons, particularly those regarding the great strength of national unity, the sound leadership of the Party, and the strategic vision of President Ho Chi Minh. These lessons remain intact in value and continue to illuminate the path of the Vietnamese revolution in the new era.

For Cambodia, the revolution's success became a powerful source of inspiration, demonstrating that the peoples of Southeast Asia were fully capable of rising up to win independence and liberate their nations from colonial rule. And in fact, Vietnam’s spirit of independence and self-reliance spread to Cambodia, helping to encourage the revolutionary movement and motivate Cambodian leaders in their struggle for national liberation.

Honorary President of the Cambodian People's Party Samdech Heng Samrin (Photo: VNA)

Moreover, this event had an impact across the entire Southeast Asian region. Vietnam became a model for resistance movements in Laos, Thailand, Indonesia, and other countries in the region, as they witnessed a Southeast Asian nation successfully overthrow colonialism and officially gain independence. This, in turn, fuelled national spirit and anti-colonial movements in many nations.

On the international stage, the August Revolution also sent a powerful message that colonized peoples had the right to self-determination and to fight for independence. The event contributed to advancing and encouraging national liberation movements worldwide, putting pressure on colonial powers, and strengthening solidarity among nations on their path to independence, Heng Samrin emphasized.

Its success was not only of great significance for the Vietnamese nation but also resonated strongly on the international stage, becoming a symbol and a source of inspiration for colonized peoples in Asia and Africa to rise up for independence and freedom, VOV reported.

Bilaterally, the Cambodia–Vietnam relations are bound by strong traditional friendship, close cooperation in all fields, and mutual support and assistance between the two Parties, States, and peoples, especially during the struggles to liberate their homelands and people from the tragedies and devastation of war, he went on.

For the coming time, the CPP Honorary President proposed the two countries focus on several key areas of cooperation, such as strengthening delegation exchanges through Party, State, and mass organisation channels; enhancing cooperation in the fields of economy, trade and investment, transportation and infrastructure, education and human resources training, health care, tourism, people-to-people connectivity and exchanges, particularly in security and national defense.

Deeper integration propels Vietnam to global trading power

Vietnam has risen from a war-torn nation to a trusted partner of the international community. Its deepening integration affirms the country’s sound development path and reinforces its role as a key link in the global supply chain.

From less-developed economy to vital global link

The Vietnamese economy stands out as a rare case of transformation from a centrally planned system to a socialist-oriented market economy with a high degree of openness. Starting with a GDP of just US$26.3 billion in the early years of the Doi Moi (Renewal) process, the country once faced food shortages and sluggish production. After nearly four decades, GDP has seen a nearly 60-fold increase to US$476.3 billion in 2024, placing Vietnam among the world’s top 20 trading economies-a testament to the momentum gained through international integration.

From a country once plagued by food shortages, Vietnam has risen to become a major rice exporter, with its products now present in more than 180 markets and export revenue reaching US$4.78 billion in 2023. The ST25 variety, recognized as the “world’s best rice,” has helped elevate the profile of Vietnamese agricultural produce. Beyond rice, key commodities such as coffee, pepper, cashew nuts, rubber, and tea have also made strong inroads into global markets. In 2024, agro-forestry-fishery exports totaled US$62.5 billion, with a trade surplus of nearly US$18 billion, marking a remarkable milestone for the country’s agriculture sector.

A key driver of this success has been Vietnam’s deep integration strategy. The country’s accession to the WTO in 2007 marked a turning point, opening up markets, pushing up institutional reforms, and attracting foreign investment. Alongside this, Vietnam has signed and enforced 19 free trade agreements (FTAs), including new-generation deals such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). These agreements have not only facilitated international trade but also spurred domestic reforms, strengthened business competitiveness, diversified markets, and reduced reliance on a limited number of partners.

Agricultural expert Hoang Trong Thuy analyzed that free trade agreements (FTAs) have helped Vietnam forge common interests, maintain peace for development, while also capitalizing on tariff preferences and integrating more deeply into the global supply chain, VOV reported.

From underdeveloped economy to vital link in the global supply chain.

Referring to Vietnam’s agricultural transformation, expert Hoang Trong Thuy noted that after national reunification, the sector faced countless challenges, including natural disasters, fertilizer shortages, weak mechanization, bureaucratic management, and annual imports of over one million tons of food.

The rationing system with food coupons lasted until 1985. Yet by 1989, Vietnam had exported its first rice shipment, reaching 1.5 million tons by 1992. Since 1998, the country has emerged as a major rice exporter, with the grain becoming closely tied to Vietnam’s national identity. In 2024, agro-forestry-fishery exports hit US$62.5 billion, with a trade surplus of US$17.9 billion, underscoring the remarkable progress of the agricultural sector.

Ongoing challenges ahead

The nation is emerging as a dynamic trade hub in 2024 with a highly open economy and deeper participation in global value chains. For sustainable growth, experts say the country must shift from a low-cost growth model to one centered on higher value added. That calls for stronger innovation, improved domestic production capacity, reduced reliance on imported inputs, and a sharper focus on high-tech industries.

In parallel, Vietnam needs to accelerate administrative reforms, restructure enterprises, and invest in modern infrastructure, science and technology, and green logistics. By seizing opportunities from the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the global green transition, the country could make a breakthrough and elevate its international standing in the coming decade.

Andrea Coppola, World Bank Lead Economist for Vietnam said that the country has achieved significant milestones: rapid GDP growth, sharp poverty reduction, and marked improvements in life expectancy and education. However, he emphasized that exports should focus more on quality rather than quantity. Over the past two decades, while export volume has increased tenfold, the average value has only doubled. To reach high-income status, Vietnam must enhance product value, particularly in potential sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, footwear, and large-scale manufacturing.

Despite emerging as one of the world’s major trading economies, Vietnam’s trade structure still shows clear limitations. Exports remain heavily reliant on the foreign direct investment (FDI) sector, while domestic enterprises run a trade deficit. Key export items are predominantly processing-based products, leaving them vulnerable to external shocks. Moreover, most Vietnamese goods are exported through intermediaries, resulting in low added value and limited capacity to build a strong national brand.

Agricultural expert Hoang Trong Thuy noted that excessive reliance on a few markets could undermine Vietnam’s ability to expand into new destinations and hinder sustainable growth. Most of the country’s exports are still sold through intermediaries, while the share distributed directly via Vietnamese companies’ own channels remains low.

He further cautioned that such concentration, along with heavy import dependence on Asia, particularly China, has effectively “anchored” Vietnam in the low-value segments of global supply chains.

It can be said that Vietnam has undergone an inspiring journey from a modest economy to a major trading nation, now among the world’s most open economies.

These remarkable achievements in global trade and integration have not only elevated Vietnam’s international standing but also created opportunities for sustainable socio-economic development.

Vietnam News Today (Aug. 28): Vietnam, Laos Strengthen Friendship, Comprehensive Cooperation Vietnam News Today (Aug. 28): Vietnam, Laos strengthen friendship, comprehensive cooperation; Vietnam, Cuba boost economic, trade, and investment ties; Vietnam, Australia look to step up ...

Vietnam News Today (Aug. 29): Vietnam, Brazil Promote Launch of Vietnam - MERCOSUR FTA Negotiations Vietnam News Today (Aug. 29): Vietnam, Brazil promote launch of Vietnam - MERCOSUR FTA negotiations; Vietnam and New Zealand examine measures to raise trade to ...