Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass: 16th National Assembly election is an opportunity to ensure all policies are implemented
WVR - On March 15, Vietnam will hold the 16th National Assembly and People's Council (HDND) elections for the 2026-2031 term. On this occasion, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass spoke to the press about the significance of this important event for Vietnam's development process and the expectations for parliamentary cooperation between the two countries.
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| Swiss Ambassador to Vietnam Thomas Gass affirms that the upcoming 16th National Assembly and People's Council elections for the 2026-2031 term are a particularly significant milestone for Vietnam. (Photo: Ngoc Anh) |
These days, Vietnam is bustling with preparations for the National Assembly and People's Council elections for the 2026-2031 term. According to the Ambassador, what is the significance of this election for achieving Vietnam's socio-economic development goals in the coming period?
The upcoming 16th National Assembly and People's Council elections are a particularly significant milestone for Vietnam. This is not just a constitutional activity but an opportunity to ensure that all policies from central to local levels are implemented with a spirit of serving the people.
Through this, every citizen can access transparent, timely, and understandable information about the process of realizing the country's development goals. I believe this is the key to fostering the strength of unity and trust among the people, helping development efforts truly bring a prosperous and better life for each individual.
I often observe this process through the lens of my country's experience. Our nation possesses a rather unique democratic system: People not only elect their representatives but also have the right to propose constitutional amendments or demand referendums on laws introduced by Parliament or the Government.
On average, Swiss voters have about four opportunities each year to decide on matters ranging from tax reforms to major infrastructure projects, or even the purchase of fighter jets for the armed forces.
Although the political systems of the two countries differ, the commonality between Vietnam and Switzerland is the recognition of the central role of public participation and trust in the success of development efforts.
Therefore, we are eager to continue accompanying and supporting Vietnam in its efforts to place people at the center of national governance and socio-economic development.
In recent years, parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy between Vietnam and Switzerland have become increasingly dynamic and positive. What are the Ambassador's expectations for the role of the new Vietnamese National Assembly in further promoting bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the coming time?
As we approach the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026 (October 11, 1971 - October 11, 2026), we are witnessing the Vietnam-Switzerland partnership becoming more vibrant than ever. The connection between the two legislative bodies is deepening, and parliamentary diplomacy has truly become an important bridge to foster mutual trust and understanding.
The main focus of bilateral relations this year is to complete negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the EFTA bloc (including Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). This agreement is expected to expand trade and investment relations, support sustainable development, and create new opportunities for businesses and people on both sides.
In this context, the National Assembly plays a crucial role, as any FTA requires strong consensus and support from the legislative bodies of all participating parties. This is why the upcoming visit of the EFTA Parliamentary Committee delegation to Vietnam from April 20-24 is so timely and meaningful.
This will be a great opportunity for parliamentarians from both sides to gain deeper insights into each other's priorities, discuss strategic visions, and create momentum for the early signing and ratification of the agreement.
I am confident that the new Vietnamese National Assembly – through its supervisory role and active connections with international partners – will make significant contributions to this common goal. Close parliamentary cooperation will ensure that the FTA, once signed, will bring "fruitful results" for the economies and people of both countries; while continuing to strengthen the solid friendship foundation that Switzerland and Vietnam have diligently cultivated over more than half a century.
Thank you very much, Ambassador!
