To Lam Urges US Vietnamese Community to Focus on Future

General Secretary and President To Lam has called on the Vietnamese community in the United States to set aside historical grievances and unite in shaping the nation's future. Speaking at a gathering in Washington on September 21, he emphasized the need for solidarity among overseas Vietnamese as they integrate into American society while maintaining their cultural roots.

The meeting marked the largest-ever interaction between Vietnamese leadership and the diaspora, drawing more than 2,000 delegates, including nearly 1,300 overseas Vietnamese. According to VOV.VN, the event took place during his working trip for the 81st United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the growing importance of the diaspora in Vietnam's broader diplomatic and economic strategy.

Largest Diaspora Gathering in History

The scale of the event underscores the community's growing influence. To Lam expressed appreciation for the community's dynamic growth and its positive contributions to local governments and society in the US. He noted that the community's integration into American life has been successful, with their efforts helping to advance local economies and social structures.

The leader highlighted the community's role in fostering friendly relations between the two countries. By maintaining strong ties with their homeland, overseas Vietnamese serve as bridges for cooperation, contributing to a more robust and multifaceted relationship between Hanoi and Washington.

Strategic Priorities for National Development

To Lam outlined Vietnam's current development trajectory, focusing on science, technology, and digital transformation as key growth drivers. The country is prioritizing strategic sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology, and green technology. He encouraged the diaspora to leverage their expertise in these fields to contribute to national progress.

The government is also developing new mechanisms to unleash the creativity of businesses and intellectuals. These initiatives align with areas where the Vietnamese community in the US holds significant strengths, creating opportunities for collaborative innovation and economic partnership between the two nations.

Building Trust Beyond Historical Divisions

Reflecting on the more than three decades since the normalization of relations, To Lam stressed that both nations have made considerable progress. He argued that cooperation can replace confrontation and that trust can be built even from deep-seated differences. This shift from conflict to partnership represents a fundamental change in the bilateral dynamic.

Addressing younger generations, the leader emphasized that while they may hold American citizenship, they remain part of the Vietnamese nation. He asserted that the Vietnamese community is one, regardless of background or perspective, and that this unity is a timeless truth that transcends political or historical divisions.

The forward question now rests on how effectively these calls for unity translate into tangible economic and diplomatic outcomes. Observers will watch whether the community's engagement in high-tech sectors accelerates Vietnam's digital transformation and if the rhetoric of shared future leads to concrete policy shifts in trade and investment frameworks between Hanoi and Washington.