Vietnam’s transformation over recent decades has been both profound and far-reaching: Turkish Ambassador

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, within the framework of a trip to attend the 152nd General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU-152) and conduct some bilateral activities in Turkey, on April 16, 2026. (Photo: VNA)

Your Excellency, Vietnam has recently successfully concluded the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party, ushering in a new era of national development, while also successfully consolidating its top leadership structure. What are your expectations for Vietnam’s upcoming development journey, as well as for the further advancement of the long-standing traditional friendship between Vietnam and Türkiye?

The successful conclusion of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam represents a defining moment for Vietnam’s future trajectory. Beyond ensuring institutional continuity, the Congress has set out an ambitious and comprehensive development agenda. The clarity and scope of Vietnam’s long-term objectives - particularly its aspiration to become a high-income, developed country in the coming decades - are both noteworthy and impressive.

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Equally noteworthy is the emphasis placed on effective leadership, which will remain an important factor in supporting Vietnam’s continued development.

Vietnam’s fundamentals remain strong. A dynamic population, a diversified and export-oriented economy, and a consistent commitment to reform have positioned the country as one of the most promising emerging economies globally. I think that the ongoing focus on innovation, digital transformation, green growth, and human capital development will be key in enabling Vietnam to move further up the value chain and sustain high-quality growth.

At the same time, Vietnam’s growing integration into the global economy and its active engagement in regional and multilateral platforms reflect a clear commitment to openness and cooperation. In this regard, Vietnam is not only benefiting from globalization but also contributing to it in a constructive manner.

Within this broader context, Türkiye-Vietnam relations are advancing on a solid and increasingly multidimensional basis. Vietnam stands out as one of Türkiye’s key partners in Southeast Asia, and our relationship is continuing to build on its strong foundations while moving toward more concrete and results-oriented cooperation. High-level engagements - such as the recent visit of Tran Thanh Man to Türkiye for the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) General Assembly - are deepening political dialogue and reinforcing mutual understanding.

Our cooperation in trade and economic fields continues to expand, although significant untapped potential remains. Enhancing business-to-business interaction, facilitating investment, and improving connectivity - particularly in civil aviation and logistics - will be essential. There is also growing scope for collaboration in areas such as advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and sustainable infrastructure.

Cultural and people-to-people exchanges also constitute a vital pillar of our relations. Initiatives that bring our societies closer together - whether through tourism, education, or cultural diplomacy - help build a stronger and more durable foundation for long-term partnership. In this respect, the role of institutions, academia, and the private sector is as important as that of governments.

An equally important dimension of our relationship is the spirit of solidarity that has been demonstrated in times of need. The support extended by Vietnam following the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye in 2023, and the solidarity shown by Türkiye in the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi in Vietnam, are powerful reminders that our ties are rooted not only in shared interests but also in genuine friendship. Such moments of mutual support reinforce trust and deepen the human dimension of our partnership.

Looking ahead, the priority is clear: To further institutionalize and expand this cooperation across all sectors. With strong political will on both sides, and a shared commitment to mutually beneficial engagement, I am confident that Türkiye–Vietnam relations will continue to grow in both scope and substance, delivering concrete results in the years to come.

Turkish Ambassador to Vietnam Korhan Kemik. (Photo: Turkish Embassy in Vietnam)

During your tenure in Vietnam, which specific images or stories regarding the country’s transformation and progress have left the most lasting impression on you?

Vietnam’s transformation over recent decades has been both profound and far-reaching. Landmark milestones such as the Doi Moi reforms and the country’s accession to ASEAN as well as its deepening international integration, laid the foundation for its emergence as a dynamic and outward-looking economy. Today, Vietnam stands as a notable example of how strategic vision and societal determination can drive sustained national progress.

During my tenure, I have had the opportunity to travel to various provinces across the country, and these visits have left a lasting impression on me. From the natural beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes - its coastlines, mountains, and river deltas - to the vibrant energy of its cities and the steady development of its rural areas, one can observe a country in motion. The pace of change is visible, but it is accompanied by a strong sense of continuity and cultural identity.

What I find particularly striking is the balance Vietnam has achieved between tradition and modernity. Historical heritage, local customs, and cultural richness are preserved and valued, even as the country embraces rapid urbanization and technological advancement. This reflects Vietnam’s ability to move forward while preserving its roots.

Equally striking is the human dimension. In my interactions with people from different walks of life - students, entrepreneurs, local officials, and community members - I have consistently encountered a strong sense of resilience, discipline, and aspiration. This collective and forward-looking mindset is, in my view, one of Vietnam’s greatest strengths.

At the same time, the scale of investment in infrastructure, education, and technology is reshaping the country’s future. New transport systems, expanding urban centers, and increasing digital capacity are enhancing connectivity and productivity while a strong emphasis on education is preparing a skilled workforce.

All these elements point to a country with significant potential and continued opportunities ahead. Vietnam is not only sustaining growth but also laying the groundwork for a more advanced and innovation-driven future.

In my view, Vietnam’s continued success will rest on its ability to maintain this balance - between growth and sustainability, modernization and cultural preservation, openness and resilience. Based on what I have observed, I am confident that the country possesses both the vision and the capacity to meet these challenges and to continue its impressive journey of development in line with its national aspirations.

Thank you so much, Ambassador!

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