Vietnam shifts foreign policy and diaspora strategy

Vietnam is implementing a strategic shift in its foreign policy and approach to its overseas population to bolster national development. The Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) has designated foreign affairs as a key, regular task alongside national defense and security, aiming to safeguard the country and create opportunities for growth through international cooperation.

Central to this strategy is Resolution No. 23-NQ/TW, adopted by the Politburo, which redefines the Vietnamese diaspora. Rather than focusing solely on mobilization, the new resolution views the more than 6.5 million Vietnamese living abroad as a major strategic resource and an integral part of the nation. The policy aims to leverage the intellectual, scientific, and technological expertise of the diaspora to contribute to the country’s national power.

In terms of bilateral relations, Vietnam is seeking to deepen its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Malaysia, with a goal to increase bilateral trade to 20 billion USD. Additionally, Vietnam continues to prioritize its relationship with the United States, calling for reciprocal trade agreements and cooperation in science, technology, and digital transformation.