On January 21 (local time), Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh participated in and addressed a special policy dialogue session titled "Breakthrough to the Future: Vietnam's Vision for Innovation and Its Global Role" at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos 2025.

Hosted by renowned Financial Times editor Gillian Tett, the dialogue delved into Vietnam's development policies and its diplomatic relationships with major powers.

In response to a question about Vietnam’s ability to balance relations with both the U.S. and China amid strategic competition, the Prime Minister emphasized Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence and self-reliance.

He reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to multilateralism, diversification, and its role as a good friend, reliable partner, and responsible member of the international community, all in pursuit of peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

Regarding concerns about Vietnam's trade surplus with the U.S., the Prime Minister expressed Vietnam’s openness to listening, addressing concerns, and strengthening imports and collaboration in fields where the U.S. has strengths and Vietnam has needs, such as aviation and high technology.

He underscored the importance of harmonious benefits and shared risks, quoting President Ho Chi Minh: "Nothing is difficult if one has determination. Mountains can be moved, seas can be filled, and success will come with perseverance."

When asked whether Vietnam had engaged with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, the Prime Minister mentioned that General Secretary To Lam had directly communicated with President Trump.

While some discussions remain confidential, others have been disclosed.

In a lighthearted moment, Gillian Tett asked if the Prime Minister had plans to visit President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence and play golf with him.

The Prime Minister responded: "If playing golf benefits the nation, its people, and our compatriots, I have no hesitation and am ready to do so."

Addressing climate change challenges and balancing economic growth with environmental protection, the Prime Minister noted Vietnam’s strong commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.

As one of the countries most affected by climate change and rising sea levels, Vietnam is striving for a green transition and sustainable production.

Efforts include accelerating renewable energy development and restarting nuclear energy projects to ensure a clean and stable energy supply for national development.

Concluding the session, Gillian Tett highlighted the international community’s admiration for Vietnam’s impressive economic transformation over four decades of reform.

Vietnam’s sustained growth, stability in finance and currency, and GDP growth exceeding 7% even amid global challenges have made it a magnet for foreign direct investment.

With its ambitious goal of double-digit growth in the near future, Vietnam is poised to become a global development model.

Gillian Tett praised the Vietnamese government’s commitment to national development and its alignment with President Ho Chi Minh’s philosophy: "Mountains can be moved, seas can be filled, and success will come with perseverance."

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s messages were highly appreciated by the participants of the dialogue session.

Tran Thuong