Vietnam’s Great Ambition For Becoming Top Asian Economic Power – OpEd

Spanning over 4,000 years of history in shaping its nation and securing its independence, Vietnam has reached impressive achievements in all aspects, and its deep-rooted desire for a greater global presence has been a long-standing vision, dating back to its founding, Tuoi Tre News newspaper reported. 

This aspiration has surged more powerfully than ever as 2025 begins, driven by the forces of the times and the profound changes taking place across all sectors, from the smallest to the largest scales.

Vietnam has recorded impressive economic performances in recent years. 

Vietnam’s booming trade, rising manufacturing, tourism boom, increasing agricultural products, foreign direct investments and high economic growth have lead to the very good economic performance.

According to the Tuoi Tre News, foreign direct investments into the nation totaled US$40 billion in 2024, with $25 billion of that amount actually implemented through foreign direct investment, ranking Vietnam among the top 20 biggest economies globally in terms of trade volume, with 17 free trade agreements in place. 

Vietnam has successfully established comprehensive strategic partnerships with nine major countries, including the U.S., China, India, Japan and France.

The country’s import-export value hit nearly $800 billion in 2024, affirming Vietnam’s vital role as a key player in the global supply chain.

In a bold move to further strengthen infrastructure, the National Assembly has approved a plan to develop a high-speed rail project with billions of U.S. dollars running along the North-South axis. 

“The mammoth project will connect economic regions, upgrade infrastructure for the agriculture, industry, and service sectors, and unlock the potential for socioeconomic development,” Dr. Nguyen Thi Quy Phuong, a Vietnamese scholar, wrote in Tuoi Tre News.

The nation’s ambition is now being reflected not only in its economic policies but also in its governance. 

The vision of a streamlined, efficient government is taking shape as the country’s leadership undergoes significant restructuring. 

“The new government apparatus must be better than the old, and must begin functioning immediately,” the Tuoi Tre News reported quoting Party General Secretary of Vietnam To Lam as saying.

This call for swift and effective action is rooted in the realization that the modernization of the political system is closely tied to the country’s new era, an era of growth and expansion for the Vietnamese people.

To make this vision a reality, the country must embrace a change in mindset. 

This is a true revolution, which is meant to open the door to a glorious new age for the nation. 

From a formerly isolated country, Vietnam now maintains diplomatic relations with 193 countries, including strategic partnerships with 32 countries and active participation in over 70 regional and international organizations.

A mighty ship seeking to conquer the vast ocean must shed its cumbersome burdens and streamline its operations. So must Vietnam. To become more agile, the nation should be equipped with a powerful engine and remove all obstacles and setbacks, allowing it to glide smoothly across the waves of opportunity.

Nearly 80 years ago, the National Assembly of Vietnam adopted the first Constitution on Nov. 9, 1946, which opened with a clear vision: “After 80 years of struggle, the Vietnamese people escaped colonialism and overthrew the monarchy. The country has embarked on a new path.”

This constitution, grounded in the principle of a strong and wise government of the people, laid the foundation toward independence, unity, and prosperity, aligning Vietnam’s progress with the global movement toward peace and human advancement.

Vietnam’s August Revolution marked a historic turning point after 80 years of fierce resistance, and Vietnam’s path toward independence and unification was realized after nearly 80 years of struggle for peace. 

The subsequent reforms, though arduous, have led to extraordinary achievements, making Vietnam a proud nation. 

Two milestones of 80 years stand as a testament to the unwavering resolve of Vietnam and the indomitable spirit of its people, a spirit that continues to fuel the dream of a unified and prosperous Vietnam. 

It is the dream of a maritime nation striving for greater influence in the global arena, a Vietnam of the G20 in the not-too-distant future.

Nothing is impossible. When 100 million Vietnamese unite with a shared vision of strength, confidence, and purpose, the possibilities are limitless.

On Oct. 21, 2024, General Luong Curong was sworn in as the country’s new president and head of state. Earlier, in August 2024, To Lam was elected as the new Secretary General of the ruling Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). Vietnam’s new leadership running the country very well. It wants to become a top Asian economic power. Vietnam has a very bright future.