Vietnam achieved a record-breaking import-export turnover of nearly US$800 billion in 2024, establishing itself as one of the region's top economic performers, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang announced at the first regular press conference of 2025, held on January 9 in Hanoi. 

Decisive government measures maintained macroeconomic stability and fostered a self-reliant, globally integrated economy. The country also welcomed 18 million international tourists and remained a leading recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI), reflecting its growing economic resilience and global appeal.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang at the regular press briefing on January 9, 2025. Photo: Viet Anh/The Hanoi Times

The year 2024 saw a flurry of diplomatic activities that enhanced relations with many partners. Key leaders conducted 60 high-level foreign engagements, including 21 visits to other countries and participation in major multilateral conferences. Vietnam also hosted 25 delegations of foreign leaders. Diplomatic efforts upgraded relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with France, Australia, and Malaysia; a Strategic Partnership with Brazil; and Comprehensive Partnerships with Mongolia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Vietnam has now established Strategic and Comprehensive Partnerships with 32 countries.

The signing of 170 agreements at high-level diplomatic events established innovative frameworks for cooperation between Vietnam and its partners. On the multilateral front, Vietnam actively participated in and made responsible contributions to the international community at the regional and global levels through platforms such as ASEAN, the United Nations, the Mekong Subregion, APEC, G20, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Francophone Community.

Vietnam is also assuming key responsibilities in the United Nations Human Rights Council and six of UNESCO's seven major governance mechanisms and is continuing its efforts to address common global challenges such as climate change, net emissions reduction, promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals, and United Nations peacekeeping operations. 

Hang said cultural diplomacy, overseas Vietnamese affairs and citizen protection efforts played a crucial role in supporting Vietnam's overall diplomatic success. UNESCO inscribed Vietnam's six new cultural heritage elements, bringing the total to 71. The 6-million Vietnamese diaspora continued to make significant contributions to the nation. Citizen protection ensured the rights, legitimate interests and safety of Vietnamese overseas.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its gratitude for the cooperation and support of journalists, foreign diplomatic missions and international organizations. Media coverage has enhanced global understanding and appreciation of Vietnam, Hang said.

According to Pham Thu Hang, the year 2025 promises to be a momentous year for Vietnam, with celebrations to mark the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the 135th anniversary of the birth of President Ho Chi Minh, the 50th anniversary of national reunification, and the 80th anniversary of National Day. Vietnam will also host major international conferences, including the 2nd ASEAN Future Forum and the 2025 P4G Summit.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is committed to facilitating access to information and supporting the work of journalists, diplomatic missions and international organizations in Vietnam, Hang said.