Professor Carl Thayer is interviewed by a VNA reporter in Sydney, Australia. Photo: Thanh Tu/VNA reporter in Sydney, Australia

According to Professor Carl Thayer, General Secretary To Lam emphasized that he will continue the legacy left by the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and resolutely and persistently fight against corruption and negativity, along with promoting Party building work. The professor said that from now until the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Vietnam will maintain political stability and there will be no major changes in domestic and foreign policies. This will help foreign investors feel secure. Professor Carl Thayer said that under the leadership of General Secretary and President To Lam, Vietnam can achieve the goal of becoming a developing country with modern industry and a high average income by 2030. According to the professor, General Secretary and President To Lam has clearly identified that as the main goal. Reality proves that Vietnam is still one of the fastest growing economies in the region and according to Mr. Thayer, this is a positive factor.

General Secretary and President To Lam highlighted the priorities in Vietnam's foreign policy in the coming time, affirming to continue to promote relations with neighboring countries, strategic and comprehensive partners, traditional friends, constantly consolidate political trust, interweave interests, peaceful diplomacy, and the highest cooperation for development; increase contributions to maintaining peace and stability in the region and the world, continue to elevate multilateral diplomacy, and promote the role of an active and responsible member in the international community. Assessing these priorities, Professor Carl Thayer said that the basic principles in Vietnam's foreign policy have been shaped, which is the "bamboo diplomacy" policy. The above priorities are the result of a collective decision-making leadership process and a flexible approach. Professor Carl Thayer commented that there will be a continuation of the previous policy and this will reassure all countries cooperating with Vietnam about maintaining continuous engagement in the future.