Perspectives From Abroad on Vietnam Ahead of Party Congress

Looking toward Vietnam on the eve of the Party Congress, how do you perceive the country’s recent developments? Could you also share your contributions to connecting Vietnam with the international community where you live and work, as well as your hopes for continuing to engage and support Vietnam in the years ahead?

Vietnam’s 14th Party Congress in Hanoi. (Photo: VNA)

From France: Vietnamese Innovation in Foundational Optimization Methods, Applied Worldwide

Professor Le Thi Hoai An, Senior Member of Academic Institute of France (France)

On the eve of Vietnam’s Party Congress, I have followed the country with great attention and expectation. It is evident that Vietnam is entering a new phase of development, in which science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation are recognized as key drivers for rapid and sustainable growth. The Party and State’s emphasis on the role of core technologies, technological autonomy, and the development of high-quality human resources reflects a sound strategic vision in the context of increasingly fierce global technological competition.

As a Vietnamese scientist working abroad in the fields of artificial intelligence, optimization, and advanced computational technologies, I have always been concerned with how the core knowledge and technologies that I, together with the international scientific community, am developing can be effectively transferred and applied in Vietnam. Over the past years, I have actively engaged in research collaborations, connected domestic and international research groups, trained 30 Vietnamese PhD students and promoted academic exchange, while also carrying out several technology projects at some Vietnamese corporations, thereby laying the foundation for systematic access to and development of advanced technologies.

Prof. Le Thi Hoai An and her husband – Prof. Pham Dinh Tao, founders of DCA - a foundational nonconvex optimization framework, which has been widely used by the global scientific and technological community for over 40 years. (Photo courtesy of the subject)

In my area of expertise, one thing that has always preoccupied me, yet also fills me with pride, is that Vietnam can indeed create foundational technologies with global impact. For instance, the DCA nonconvex optimization framework, initiated by Professor Phạm Đình Tao and further developed together with Vietnamese scientists over the past 40 years, has been widely adopted by the international scientific and technological community across critical fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, telecommunications, finance, and complex engineering systems. This demonstrates that Vietnamese intellect has contributed directly to the formation of globally relevant foundational technologies, rather than merely receiving or applying existing knowledge.

From this perspective, I hope to continue accompanying Vietnam more closely in the coming years through major, strategic, and long-term programs and projects, aiming to bring core scientific principles such as DCA back to the country to generate key technologies that directly serve the process of socio-economic development.

I believe that mastering these core methods and technologies will play a crucial role in building domestic capacity, forming strong research teams, and enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness in this new stage of development.

Through international collaboration, I have also observed that science and education are the most effective “soft bridges” to connect Vietnam with the global community, generating long-term and sustainable value for the country. I will accompany the younger generation of Vietnamese scientists, supporting them in accessing and applying advanced technologies, thereby helping to build a foundation for strategic projects in the future.

Insights on Vietnam’s Future from a Hungary-Based Professor

Prof. Bui Minh Phong, Eotvos Lorand University (Hungary)

As a Vietnamese who left the country decades ago to study, teach, and live in Hungary, I have always followed Vietnam’s developments with deep affection and a sense of responsibility. On the eve of the upcoming Party Congress, it is clear that Vietnam stands before significant opportunities, alongside numerous intertwined challenges: the need to renew growth models, enhance the quality of human resources, advance science and technology, pursue digital transformation, while maintaining political and social stability and preserving national cultural identity amid a rapidly changing and complex world.

Prof. Bui Minh Phong of Eotvos Lorand University (Hungary) - one of the professors awarded the Knight’s Cross by the President of Hungary (2023). (Photo courtesy of the subject)

From the perspective of someone engaged in science and education in Europe, I greatly appreciate Vietnam’s efforts toward deeper international integration, the emphasis on knowledge and the role of intellectuals both at home and abroad, as well as the practice of listening to diverse opinions in pursuit of sustainable development goals. I hope that this Party Congress will continue to affirm a long-term vision, generating new momentum for institutional reform, education and training, and science and technology, recognizing these as key pillars for the country’s future.

Having lived and taught in Hungary for over forty-five years, as a university professor, I have always tried to serve as a modest bridge between Vietnam and my local colleagues: introducing the history, culture, and people of Vietnam; supporting and encouraging academic collaboration, student exchanges, and scientific research; linking Eotvos Lorand University with universities in Vietnam; and accompanying the Vietnamese community in Hungary in preserving national identity and maintaining ties with the homeland.

At my age, I have few personal ambitions left. What I value most is the continued opportunity to contribute, within my capacity, to the connection of knowledge, education, and friendship between Vietnam and the countries I have been part of; and I hope that Vietnam will continue to prosper, with a strong economy, an equitable and civilized society, so that future generations can take pride in their Vietnamese heritage.

Vietnam–Germany Culture and Music in Knowledge Exchange

Professor and Artist Dang Ngoc Long, Director of the Berlin-Gesundbrunnen Music School (Germany)

In the period leading up to Vietnam’s Party Congress, I have observed a strong sense of positive, comprehensive, and determined change across the country. This movement extends beyond socio-economic progress to a deeper shift in development thinking - reflecting an aspiration to advance, to integrate globally, while remaining firmly rooted in national cultural identity. Vietnam is entering a critical transitional phase, where traditional values are placed in open dialogue with innovation, creativity, and international integration.

Professor and artist Dang Ngoc Long, one of the most prominent Vietnamese composers in Europe. (Photo courtesy of the subject)

Throughout my journey of living and working abroad, I have remained deeply aware of my responsibility as a Vietnamese toward my homeland. My efforts, whether in academia or in the fields of culture and the arts, have consistently been directed toward serving as a bridge between Vietnam and the international community. Recently, having the opportunity to perform the orchestral suite “Kieu” with a German symphony orchestra at the Ho Guom Opera House in Hanoi was a particularly meaningful experience. This was not merely an artistic event, but a vivid demonstration of cultural dialogue: a masterpiece of Vietnamese literature resonating within the European classical symphonic tradition, at the very heart of the capital.

I believe that such encounters enable international audiences to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural depth, spirit, and identity, while also demonstrating that Vietnam is ready to engage with the world through its own intrinsic values.

In the time ahead, I hope to continue accompanying, remaining closely connected to, and contributing more to my homeland - particularly in fostering connections in knowledge, culture, music, and people between Vietnam and the wider world. Wherever I may be, Vietnam remains my spiritual anchor, my source of inspiration, and the place toward which I turn with profound respect and a strong sense of responsibility.

Vietnamese Entrepreneurs in Laos and Bilateral Ties

Ms. Pham Thi Minh Huong – Standing Committee Member of the Vietnam General Association in Laos, Vice President of the Association of Vietnamese Entrepreneurs Abroad, Chairwoman and CEO of Gold Phuc Company (Laos)

As Vietnam approaches the Party Congress, I can clearly sense the country’s positive momentum in its process of renewal, international integration, and sustainable development. For Vietnamese entrepreneurs living and working abroad - particularly those of us based in Laos - each step forward taken by our homeland is closely tied to a sense of pride, connection, and shared responsibility.

In my role as Vice Chairwoman of the Association of Vietnamese Entrepreneurs Abroad, and as a businesswoman operating in Laos, I have taken part in various initiatives aimed at strengthening connections between Vietnam and Laos, as well as with several other countries. Our enterprise consistently complies with local laws and regulations, fulfills its social responsibilities, contributes to the local community, and seeks to project the image of Vietnamese businesses as credible, responsible, and respectful of local cultures.

Ms. Pham Thi Minh Huong has been working to connect Vietnamese, Lao, and international businesses (Photo: WAJ)

Looking ahead, I hope to continue accompanying and contributing to efforts that connect Vietnamese entrepreneurs abroad, promote sustainable economic cooperation, foster cultural exchange, and further strengthen the long-standing friendship and close ties between Vietnam and Laos.

People-to-People Diplomacy in Vietnam–Slovakia Connectivity

Mr. Ho Huy is the Honorary Consul General of the Slovak Republic in Ho Chi Minh City and the chairman of Mai Linh Group (Vietnam–Slovakia)

Vietnam is steadily affirming its development resilience, maintaining political stability while proactively pursuing deep and responsible international integration. In my view, this Party Congress is significant not only for the people at home, but also in strengthening the confidence of international partners and overseas Vietnamese communities in Vietnam’s long-term development path.

For more than two decades, in my capacity as Honorary Consul General of the Slovak Republic in Ho Chi Minh City, I have sought to make a modest contribution to promoting friendship, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and people-to-people ties between Vietnam and Slovakia. Through business networking activities, investment and trade promotion, and efforts to enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, I hope to help deepen trust and advance cooperation toward sustainable development.

Mr. Ho Huy, Honorary Consul of Slovakia in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, has worked with Slovak scientists to advance the development of a flying motorcycle prototype in Europe. (Photo: Courtesy of the subject)

From this practical experience, it is evident that the potential for cooperation between Vietnam and European countries particularly in Central Europe-remains substantial, especially in the areas of economy, trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange. The achievements made in recent years provide a positive foundation for further expanding cooperation in the future.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue accompanying Vietnam on its path of international integration through the spirit of people-to-people diplomacy, grounded in sincerity, mutual respect, and shared interests. I am confident that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the country will continue to develop in a stable and sustainable manner, further affirming its position as a reliable and responsible partner within the international community.

The Humble Life of a Vietnamese Small Business Owner in Europe

Mr Tran Tuan Anh,  Managing Director TRAN VU GmbH (Austria)

From Europe, I have followed developments in Vietnam with deep interest and a strong sense of connection. Amid a rapidly changing international context, Vietnam has demonstrated steady and proactive steps in its integration process - an evolution that I, along with many members of the Vietnamese community across Europe, have closely observed.

Mr. Nguyen Tuan Anh with a group of distinguished overseas Vietnamese on a visit to the Spratly Islands, Vietnam. (Photo courtesy of the subject.)

As a Vietnamese small business owner living and working in Austria, I do not focus on major economic contributions, but rather on community activities within my capacity. Through diligent work, adherence to local laws, and participation in social initiatives, I hope to help build an image of Vietnamese people as hardworking, trustworthy, and gradually integrating successfully in Austria.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue supporting the Vietnamese community in Austria, maintaining simple yet enduring connections, and through them promoting the positive values of the Vietnamese people within local social and economic life.

From Russia, Strengthening the Vietnam–Russia Bridge

Mr Dao Dai Hai, CEO of Fonary Tour, Russian Federation

I have been residing in the Russian Federation for nearly 40 years, yet I have always followed every step of my homeland, Vietnam, with deep pride. Today, I clearly perceive a dynamic, stable Vietnam with an increasingly prominent international standing and rich potential for cooperation. Innovations in the economy, improvements in the investment environment, and open policies toward the Vietnamese diaspora have strengthened our confidence and desire to contribute to the country’s development.

Mr. Dao Dai Hai – promoting Vietnamese cultural heritage in Russia. (Photo courtesy of the subject)

Here in Russia, I have consistently strived to serve as a bilateral bridge through business activities (tourism, import-export, investment promotion) as well as people-to-people diplomacy and community engagement. I am particularly committed to preserving our cultural roots, exemplified by the formal organization of the Hùng Kings’ Death Anniversary Ceremony in Saint Petersburg – an event that is not only spiritually meaningful but also promotes culture and reinforces national solidarity.

Looking ahead, I will continue to build bridges supporting investment, people-to-people diplomacy, and associations, contributing to the further strengthening of the traditional friendship between Russia and Vietnam.

Taken together, these perspectives reflect ongoing people-to-people connections between Vietnam and the international community, highlighting dialogue, cooperation, and shared engagement amid Vietnam’s evolving path of development and integration.

Fostering Exchanges and Sustainable Cooperation

Mr Boualay, Director General of the Department of Information and Public Affairs, Lao PDR (Laos)

In my capacity as Director General of the Propaganda Department of Laos, I have always followed developments in Vietnam with deep respect. On the eve of the Party Congress, what strikes me most is that Vietnam is entering a new phase of transformation—one that balances steadfast strategic goals with an agile response to regional and global change. Efforts to improve governance, strengthen social cohesion, enhance people’s livelihoods, and advance innovation and international integration have created a development momentum that is both steady and forward-looking. From the perspective of someone working in ideological and communications affairs, it is also clear that Vietnam increasingly values societal trust and the role of reliable information channels in unifying public understanding and collective action.

Mr Boualay, Director General of the Department of Information and Public Affairs, Lao PDR (Laos). (Photo courtesy of the subject)

Within my professional and personal capacity, I see contributing to Vietnam’s engagement with the international community - especially in the country where I live and work - as a meaningful form of solidarity. I have sought to help convey an image of Vietnam as a peaceful, stable, and humane nation with strong cooperative potential, while promoting exchanges in information, media, and public communication. Particular attention has been given to initiatives that foster mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation in support of sustainable development. I have also worked to connect networks of intellectuals, experts, journalists, business leaders, and overseas Vietnamese communities, so that each can contribute in practical and meaningful ways.

Looking ahead, my aspiration is to continue engaging closely with Vietnam through more sustained and effective efforts: strengthening people-to-people exchanges, supporting responsible communication, sharing professional experience, and deepening the special relationship between Laos and Vietnam, while also broadening Vietnam’s ties with the international community. I believe that when overseas Vietnamese and friends of Vietnam uphold their sense of responsibility, trust, and affection for the country, every contribution - no matter how modest - accumulates into a shared and lasting strength.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the individuals interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the position of the publication).