Vietnamese President To Lam Highlights Stronger Vietnam-US Relations During New York Visit

VoS NEWS DESK | INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY | 23 September 2026

To Lam delivered his policy speech at the Foreign Policy Association in New York on 22 September, as part of his wider visit to the United States. The visit includes participation in the high-level UN General Assembly debate and bilateral activities aimed at strengthening Vietnam's international partnerships.

The Vietnamese leader's trip is significant for Hanoi's efforts to expand diplomatic engagement with major international partners. Vietnam has described its foreign policy as focused on independence, self-reliance, peace, cooperation, development and diversification of external relations.

During his New York visit, To Lam has highlighted the development of the Vietnam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two countries have been working to expand cooperation across political, economic and other areas.

Vietnamese authorities have described parliamentary cooperation as an important part of strengthening relations with the United States. According to VOV, cooperation between the legislatures of the two countries can contribute to greater mutual understanding and confidence in bilateral relations.

To Lam's visit also comes at a significant point in Vietnam's domestic political calendar. His participation in the UN General Assembly is the first such high-level UN visit following the country's 14th National Party Congress and the elections for the 16th National Assembly and People's Councils for the 2026–2031 period.

The Vietnamese delegation arrived in New York on 20 September, ahead of the high-level UN meetings. The programme includes both multilateral diplomatic activities at the United Nations and bilateral discussions with international partners.

Vietnam has placed considerable importance on maintaining strong relations with major economies while continuing its policy of developing links with multiple countries and international organisations.

The United States is an important economic and diplomatic partner for Vietnam, and both sides have sought to expand cooperation following the elevation of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

To Lam's New York programme has also included meetings with American contacts and representatives from different sectors. Vietnamese officials have presented these engagements as part of efforts to strengthen mutual understanding and expand cooperation between the two countries.

At the Foreign Policy Association, To Lam received the organisation's medal, described by VOV as its highest honour. The award recognised individuals who demonstrate a commitment to responsible internationalism and contribute to broader public understanding of international affairs.

The Vietnamese leader's participation in the UN General Assembly also provides an opportunity for Vietnam to present its views on international cooperation and the role of multilateral institutions.

Vietnam has increasingly sought to maintain balanced relations with major powers while expanding economic and diplomatic partnerships. This approach has become an important feature of the country's foreign policy.

To Lam's September visit will continue through 25 September, including his participation in UN activities and a subsequent state visit to Canada. Vietnamese authorities have said the trip is intended to strengthen multilateral engagement and support long-term national development objectives.

The United States component of the visit therefore combines international diplomacy at the UN with direct discussions on bilateral relations. Both elements are relevant to Vietnam's efforts to strengthen its position in global affairs.

VoS STRATEGIC INSIGHT

To Lam's New York visit demonstrates Vietnam's focus on combining multilateral diplomacy with stronger bilateral partnerships. The emphasis on Vietnam-US relations reflects the importance Hanoi places on maintaining cooperation with Washington while continuing its broader policy of diversified international engagement.

The visit also gives Vietnam an opportunity to discuss long-term cooperation, strengthen diplomatic contacts and present its foreign-policy priorities at the United Nations. The continuing development of the Vietnam-US partnership will be an important part of Vietnam's wider international engagement.

Source: VOV; Vietnam News Agency; United Nations General Assembly.