Hanoi’s diplomatic strategy is being increasingly recognized as a model for pragmatic and effective foreign policy in Southeast Asia, according to assessments from regional experts and officials. The nation’s growing international stature was highlighted by Professor Carl Thayer of the Australian Defence Academy at the University of Fresh South Wales, who described Vietnam as a success story in diplomatic strategy.
Thayer’s analysis, reported by Vietnam’s state-run news agency VNA, points to Vietnam’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical currents whereas simultaneously fostering economic growth. The country has successfully established strategic partnerships with major global powers, including the United States, China, and Japan, alongside similar relationships with twelve other key partners. This balancing act demonstrates a sophisticated approach to foreign policy, allowing Hanoi to maintain strategic flexibility.
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính recently concluded a national conference reviewing the country’s overall diplomatic strategy, calling for continued implementation to further elevate Vietnam’s international standing. This emphasis on diplomacy is reflected in the policy goals outlined in the report presented at the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party, which identified strengthening defense, security, and international integration as strategic priorities.
According to Thayer, Vietnam’s strategic approach is characterized by consistency in objectives, flexibility in execution, and adaptability to global changes. The dual pillars of defense and security, coupled with proactive international integration, enable the country to effectively manage a complex geopolitical environment while sustaining economic growth.
Vietnam actively supports the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), promoting cooperation, economic development, and dialogue over rivalry, and reaffirming ASEAN centrality in regional architecture. The AOIP shares common ground with Japan’s vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding respect for national sovereignty, quality infrastructure development, and opposition to unilateral attempts to alter the regional status quo.
Thayer emphasized Vietnam’s commitment to the international order based on law, including respect for sovereignty and freedom of navigation, as enshrined in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Alongside this commitment, Vietnam is strengthening its maritime and defense capabilities to address emerging security challenges.
Bilateral ties with Japan are particularly significant, with Vietnam’s coast guard receiving Aso-class patrol vessels and training through Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) program. Thayer noted that this demonstrates Japan’s view of Vietnam as a rising power in Asia and a desire to enhance cooperation to preserve a rules-based international order.
Vietnam currently ranks fourth in the 2025 Asia Power Index by the Lowy Institute. With a stated goal of strengthening its “international mission,” Vietnam intends to contribute more actively to peace, development, and the management of regional and global challenges, while continuing cooperation with like-minded partners within and beyond ASEAN, through multilateral mechanisms.
