Women diplomats – “Flowers” in the journey of Vietnamese diplomacy
WVR - Every October 20th, I think of the women I've met in my diplomatic journey, those who made me love my profession more and understand that behind every collective success lies the dedication and silent sacrifices of these women.
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| Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam, Nguyen Thi Binh, signing the Agreement of the International Conference on Vietnam, March 2, 1973. (Archival photo) |
Some are recorded in history, while others dedicate their lives to less mentioned tasks. Each with their own position and way of contributing, they collectively protect national interests and foster relationships with international friends. Proud of these women, I cherish even more the profession I have chosen.
In the glorious tradition of the diplomatic sector, the image of Vietnamese female diplomats always evokes in me respect and pride, as colleagues, role models, and sources of inspiration that deepen my love for the profession and belief in the mission I have chosen. They are the “proud flowers”, contributing to the prestige of Vietnamese diplomacy with their courage, intellect, and profound humanity.
Women who made history
The historical figure of the Paris Conference – Nguyen Thi Binh, in her graceful ao dai, with a determined gaze and calm demeanor, left an impression not only on the Vietnamese people but also in the memory of international friends. She once said: “A woman in diplomacy must have both the toughness to uphold principles and the softness to persuade hearts.” To me, this is the essence of a female diplomat's qualities, combining steely logic and gentle humanity.
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| Vietnamese female diplomats. |
Another woman I have always admired is Ton Nu Thi Ninh, an erudite intellectual who held many important diplomatic positions. She was not only a political diplomat but also a prominent cultural diplomat. She once shared: “Diplomacy is not just politics, but also culture, a connection of souls and intellect.” This statement resonates deeply in my work journey, as every international meeting is not just an exchange of interests but also an opportunity to introduce the soul of the nation.
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| Female diplomats participating in the “Artistic Flower Arrangement Exchange to Celebrate Vietnamese Women's Day on October 20” organized by the Women's Committee of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Cultural Diplomacy and related units of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, October 20, 2026. |
These renowned female diplomats have shown that Vietnamese women can be both steadfast in their stance and delicate in their interactions, and it is this combination that has created the strength of Vietnamese diplomacy.
Bravery and professionalism
Today, in a world of many changes, I increasingly recognize the prominent presence of modern female diplomats. They appear at international forums with confidence and sharp reasoning, yet still exude softness and humanity. What I admire about them is their working style: Standard, sophisticated, always balancing principles and flexibility. At the negotiation table, they protect national interests with solid arguments; but outside the meetings, just a smile or a friendly greeting can reopen dialogue. This is the art of “soft diplomacy”, a special strength of women.
They are also diligent workers because behind every precise speech or document is a process of serious research, analysis, and preparation. They know how to put themselves in different perspectives, always remain calm under pressure, and turn challenges into valuable experiences.
I understand that the greatest strength of modern female diplomats is the combination of intelligence and refined humanity. In any position, they not only represent national interests but also spread the image of a friendly, open, and culturally rich Vietnam.
Impressions and the journey of dedication
In my work journey, I increasingly appreciate the companionship and contributions of female colleagues, who are both a support and a mirror for me to learn from. During my tenure in Hong Kong (China), I witnessed a female diplomat handling a citizen protection situation in the middle of the night. The person on duty was a young female officer, serving her term alone with two young children. As soon as the incident occurred, she quickly coordinated with the police and completed the procedures. Everything concluded right at 3 a.m., and when I asked, “Are you tired?”, she simply smiled and replied, “Citizen protection work is a spiritual support, so every Vietnamese abroad feels the homeland is by their side.”
I am also very fortunate to work with many dedicated female colleagues. They are not only those who prepare every detail of protocol, but also charming MCs at important national events; diligent officers completing reports and programs for high-level delegations late into the night; companions to overseas Vietnamese worldwide, closely protecting their legitimate rights.
They are also those who quietly contribute to diplomatic journalism with sharp pens, understanding, and responsibility for every piece of information. Through each article, they help the public understand the significance of foreign activities, the efforts behind each result, and the benefits brought to the country, people, and businesses. This is also how journalism accompanies the diplomatic sector, building trust, creating consensus, and spreading the image of Vietnam to international friends.
The silent dedication every day is evidence contributing to the success of today's diplomatic sector. Many international friends have shared with me that they feel closer to Vietnam thanks to the smile and sophisticated demeanor of female diplomatic officers.
Prospects and mission of the future generation of female diplomats
I believe the young generation of female diplomats will inherit the tradition while creating new imprints with modern and creative styles. They shine on the international stage and inspire society, affirming that Vietnamese women are “Good at national affairs, proficient in domestic duties”. The young generation of female diplomats will be the torchbearers to keep the national flag proudly flying, continuing the 81-year history with global courage and undying love for the homeland.
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| Female diplomats at the 33rd Diplomatic Conference with the theme “Promoting the Pioneering Role and Performing Key, Regular Tasks of Vietnamese Foreign Affairs in the New Era”, August 1, 2026. (Photo: Nguyen Hong) |
Eighty-one years of Vietnamese diplomacy are years of intellect, courage, and commitment. In that journey, female diplomats from historical figures, modern colleagues to future generations, always shine brightly. To me, they are not just colleagues but also mirrors and great sources of motivation.
I am grateful to the previous generations, appreciate today's colleagues, and place my trust in future generations. Diplomacy, to me, is not just a job. It is an ideal, a heart, and also a silent yet noble sacrifice. These “proud flowers” will continue to spread their fragrance, taking Vietnamese diplomacy further and contributing to the nation's prestige in the new era.
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