Understanding the 'proactive position in foreign affairs'

Vietnam loves peace , is a responsible member, and participates more actively, proactively and effectively in the common work of the United Nations in dealing with global challenges. (Source: VGP)

Being proactive here must be based on understanding and accurate assessment. If we “blindly take the initiative”, we will become passive. Therefore, being proactive means understanding the situation, the balance of power, the interests of all parties as well as core interests, keeping our own interests and the interests we can gain if we “know how”. At each different stage, our interests need to be clearly defined, what is “immutable”, what can be flexibly “give and take”.

In the complex and unpredictable international context, I believe that comprehensively assessing the balance of power and determining the interest groups of the parties and of one's own country is more necessary than ever. This is a more difficult task than before, before and after the Cold War, because each subject of international relations is flexibly considering their behavior, which will affect the ability to predict strategy. The "four no's" defense policy should be "immutable", a "compass", suitable for the position and strength of our country.

Looking back, it is true that Vietnam has proactively approached the world early, along with the domestic innovation process, determining the path of integration and development. As early as 1990, a delegation of Vice President of the Council of Ministers Vo Van Kiet attended the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos (Switzerland), demonstrating our proactiveness on the journey of international integration.

Vietnam's proactive international integration is also reflected in many aspects, with important foreign affairs milestones. In addition to welcoming delegations from other countries with increasing frequency and diversity, following the successful hosting of the 1997 Summit of the Francophone Community, Vietnam has hosted many international and regional conferences.

A clear demonstration of how Vietnam has been proactive, methodical and carefully calculating to both create conditions and ensure two-way benefits in international and regional integration over the past 30 years is the initiative to expand the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) into ADMM+ with the participation of 8 dialogue partners, on the occasion of hosting ADMM in Hanoi in 2010.

The most prominent illustration of Vietnam's rise to establish its position and prestige in the international arena is Vietnam's mark during its two terms as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2008-2009 term and especially 2020-2021 term.

It is also the journey of maturity and making an impression of Vietnamese diplomacy, reflecting the professionalization process of the Diplomatic sector. From the position of "receiving" (aid, support, consulting...) to a contributing - proposing subject, a responsible, trustworthy, predictable and capable partner. This is clearly demonstrated through our excellent participation in the peacekeeping force in South Sudan, which was recognized by the United Nations, or being elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2020-2021 term with a record number of votes of 192/193.

Thus, it can be said that the maturity in promoting intelligence and initiative along with the process of professionalizing the force has contributed to enhancing Vietnam's international position.