Vietnam’s President To Lam is set to embark on a critical diplomatic mission in the United States, scheduled for next week. This marks a pivotal moment in both his political career and Vietnam’s growing engagement with major global tech players. The visit is especially significant as it represents Lam’s first trip to the US following his appointment as both President and Communist Party chief in August.
Among the highlights of Lam’s agenda is the opportunity to meet with leading corporations, including tech giants Google and Meta. These discussions are anticipated to center on enhancing business and technological collaboration between Vietnam and these influential companies. Vietnam has positioned itself as an emerging tech hub in Southeast Asia, already hosting services like Facebook and beginning to integrate deep tech manufacturing operations from companies such as Google. This trip could solidify that positioning further.
On September 23, Lam will attend a business forum organized by the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC), where representatives from various US companies will be present. This forum underscores Vietnam’s strategic importance as a manufacturing hub. Over recent years, American businesses, including notable names like Boeing and Amazon, have significantly increased their investments in Vietnam, seeking to capitalize on the country’s robust workforce and expanding market.
The meetings with Google and Meta signal a deepening of tech cooperation, as both companies have already made significant inroads into Vietnam’s digital landscape. For instance, Google has launched various initiatives aimed at supporting Vietnamese startups, while Meta continues to engage with local content creators. Such collaborations are indicative of how Vietnam is becoming a crucial market for international companies.
The broader context of Lam’s visit reflects the evolving diplomatic relationship between the US and Vietnam. For Washington, Vietnam is seen as a strategic partner essential to diversifying supply chains amidst rising tensions with China. This is particularly relevant in critical sectors, including technology and infrastructure, where collaboration on projects like undersea cables is anticipated.
While the specifics of the discussions remain undisclosed, the significance of this trip cannot be overstated. With the US actively promoting Vietnam as a key business partner in the region, this visit holds potential for both increased investment and technological exchange. It remains uncertain, however, whether Lam will have the opportunity to meet with US President Joe Biden during his trip, as the White House has yet to confirm any such plans.
Additionally, this visit comes on the heels of a recent meeting between Lam and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting his critical role in managing Vietnam’s relationships with major world powers. Following his address at the UN General Assembly, Lam is expected to continue his international engagements with scheduled visits to Cuba and France in early October.
Overall, Lam’s US visit signifies a momentous step for Vietnam as it strengthens ties with influential tech corporations while simultaneously enhancing its geopolitical stance. By focusing on technology and business discussions, Vietnam is positioning itself as a forward-thinking nation ready to embrace global opportunities.
