Vietnam’s active engagement affirms central role in regional affairs
Vietnam’s consistent message of unity, sustainability and shared prosperity, backed by concrete proposals and proactive diplomacy, affirmed its position as a reliable driving force shaping a cohesive and resilient ASEAN community.
THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam reaffirmed its constructive and central role in regional affairs through active contributions and practical initiatives at the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings concluded on October 28 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expresses a message of unity, resilience and cooperation in ASEAN. Photo: Nhat Bac/VGP
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh led the Vietnamese delegation with a message of unity, resilience and cooperation through more than 20 bilateral talks and nearly 20 multilateral meetings, emphasizing that ASEAN’s strength lies in its solidarity and capacity for adaptation.
In his address at the plenary session, Chinh highlighted three strategic resources, including internal unity, resilient supply chains and green-digital transformation, that ASEAN must leverage to maintain its centrality in the evolving regional structure.
He called for deeper economic integration, stronger intra-regional connectivity and effective mechanisms for sustainable growth, asserting that inclusiveness and people-centered development are essential for ASEAN’s long-term stability.
Vietnam’s proposals received support from member states, reflecting its growing influence and strategic foresight in shaping ASEAN’s agenda for peace, security and development, according to regional experts.
At the ASEAN+3 Summit, PM Chinh proposed enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, digital transformation and green growth, while urging the efficient operation of mechanisms such as the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) and the Rapid Financing Facility (RFF).
In the field of energy transition, Vietnam took an active part in the 3rd Asia Zero Emission Community Summit, calling for urgent regional cooperation to meet net-zero targets and offering to serve as a focal point for technology transfer and clean energy projects.
Vietnam also presented four major initiatives at the ASEAN–US Summit, focusing on economic connectivity, innovation, energy security and cyber cooperation, aiming to strengthen mutual trust and create practical benefits for both sides.
Experts in Malaysia and the region commended Vietnam’s constructive diplomacy, noting that its leadership contributes to enhancing ASEAN’s inclusivity, economic linkages and energy connectivity, particularly through projects like the ASEAN Power Grid and regional transport corridors.
The 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits takes place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on October 26-28. Photo: VNA
On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Chinh held bilateral meetings with leaders of Malaysia, Brunei, Timor-Leste, Singapore and India to deepen cooperation and implement shared initiatives.
At the meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the halal industry and agricultural trade while promoting sustainable maritime development.
During talks with Brunei’s leadership, Vietnam proposed expanding collaboration in oil and gas, fisheries and food processing, aligning with the broader ASEAN economic agenda.
With Singapore, both sides discussed enhancing cooperation in semiconductors, renewable energy and innovation – the sectors seen as key to ASEAN’s competitiveness in the digital era.
At the ASEAN–India Summit, Vietnam suggested three priorities, namely economic connectivity, people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in the blue economy, stressing the role of small- and medium-sized enterprises in regional supply chains.
Vietnam’s commitment to inclusive and forward-looking cooperation was reflected by its agreement to host the third ASEAN Future Forum in 2026, a platform to discuss long-term development strategies for ASEAN Vision 2045.
Apart from policy discussions, Vietnam engaged with the business community at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, where PM Chinh called for stronger regional value chains, innovation and support for small enterprises adapting to digital transformation.
Vietnam’s initiatives in trade, energy and digital cooperation illustrate its approach as both a contributor and connector, bridging interests among ASEAN members and between ASEAN and its partners.
The country’s consistent message of unity, sustainability and shared prosperity resonated across meetings, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and constructive partner in regional governance.
Through concrete proposals and proactive diplomacy, Vietnam has strengthened its role not only as an active participant but also as a driving force in regional cooperation.
Its leadership at the 47th ASEAN Summit once again demonstrated that Vietnam’s voice carries weight in shaping a cohesive, resilient and forward-looking ASEAN community ready to navigate global uncertainties together.
