Being the destination for a number of global scale events in 2018 and particularly the upcoming second North Korea – US summit in Hanoi, Vietnam has proved that it is capable of hosting events of global importance, according to Vu Minh Khuong, a lecturer at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore.
Vu Minh Khuong, associate professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore.
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Firstly, Vietnam’s status and image have been enhanced significantly in the international stage in contributing to making the world a better place, which is shown not only through the capability of hosting international event of global utmost importance, but also the country’s strategic value.
Secondly, it is no doubt that Vietnam’s profile has been highlighted through such event. Vietnam, therefore, will emerge as a perfect choice for both foreign tourists and investors.
Thirdly, the success of the event would motivate Vietnam to pursue stronger reform, in turn truly setting an example of how a country could overcome a difficult past and later play a critical role in shaping the future.
However, in order to realize the full potential that comes along with the North Korea – US summit, Vietnam must take this event as an opportunity to cement the country’s status in the world, instead of only focusing on developing tourism. For Vietnam’s step-by-step going forward, each citizen must be responsible for this process.
Moreover, Vietnam must have a clear strategy and identify objectives. The country must know exactly the current position that it is standing and what are the challenges that it must address for growth and prosperity.
Last but not least, the government must create a platform so that every individual and organization can take part and contribute to the overall efforts towards a common goal.
In his article published in the Eastwest Forum on March 2018, Khuong pointed to three reasons that led to his conclusion that Vietnam is a perfect destination for the North Korea – US second summit.
According to Khuong, firstly, this would send a clear message showing strong commitments of both the US and North Korea’s leaders to opening a new chapter in the US – North Korea relation. Secondly, Vietnam is a good model in transforming an old foe to a strategic partner that both the US and North Korea can refer to. And lastly, it presents an opportunity for North Korea to learn from Vietnam’s experience in global integration and economic reform.
