Vietnam's top leader urges diaspora in Nordic region to strengthen ties

To Lam has called on Vietnamese residents across Denmark, Iceland, and Southern Sweden to serve as bridges of friendship between Vietnam and their adopted countries, emphasizing their potential to foster cooperation at multiple levels.

During meetings with embassy staff and Vietnamese community representatives, the top leader highlighted how the diaspora's credibility and local networks could be instrumental in strengthening bilateral relations. The engagement reflects Vietnam's broader strategy of mobilizing its diaspora as partners in diplomatic outreach.

The visits underscore Vietnam's commitment to nurturing ties with Nordic and Northern European nations. Vietnam and Denmark have recently elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, formalized through a joint statement that signals deepened cooperation across trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

Vietnamese communities abroad have increasingly played pivotal roles in people-to-people diplomacy, serving as cultural ambassadors while contributing to their host economies. Officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining these connections as Vietnam continues expanding its international partnerships in Europe.

Photo: General Secretary To Lam (left) with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, London, October 2025. Shaun Curry / No 10 Downing Street via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).