Tony Blair meets Vietnam's standing deputy prime minister on cooperation

Former UK prime minister Tony Blair visited Hanoi on July 9, 2026 for a reception hosted by Vietnam’s standing deputy prime minister Pham Gia Tuc. The meeting highlighted the Tony Blair Institute’s role in supporting Vietnam’s development, especially in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, renewable energy, hydrogen, offshore wind and the creation of an international financial centre.

Vietnam’s government reiterated its goal of becoming a high‑income nation by 2045 and seeks advice and investment from the Institute to accelerate reforms, digital government and technology‑driven growth. Pham Gia Tuc noted Vietnam’s strong economic performance – 8.18% GDP growth in the first half of the year, a $514 billion economy ranking 32nd globally, and ambitions to raise annual growth above 10% between 2026‑2030 and exceed $1 trillion in trade.

Blair praised Vietnam’s progress and pledged continued collaboration, citing the Institute’s work with about 40 governments to apply technology for economic development and public‑sector efficiency.