HANOI — Vietnam is intensifying diplomatic and economic engagement with major international partners as President and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam undertakes high-level visits aimed at expanding cooperation in science, technology, energy and infrastructure.

To Lam’s September visit to Russia and France is being presented as an opportunity to give fresh momentum to Vietnam’s comprehensive strategic partnerships with both countries. Vietnam’s government has highlighted science and technology cooperation as a potential driver of its relationship with Russia.

During the Russia leg of the visit, To Lam held discussions with senior Russian officials, including Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Dmitry Medvedev. The talks covered ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation and expand practical collaboration between the two countries.

Science and technology are emerging as particularly important areas in Vietnam’s international economic strategy. Hanoi is seeking to expand cooperation in advanced technologies while also strengthening traditional partnerships in energy, infrastructure and trade.

The diplomatic push comes as Vietnam attempts to diversify and strengthen its international economic relationships amid uncertainty in global trade.

France is another major focus of the September programme. To Lam’s visit includes participation in the International Space Summit in Paris, highlighting Vietnam’s interest in expanding cooperation in high-technology and space-related sectors.

Vietnam is also working to strengthen its domestic technology capabilities. The government has been advancing policies connected with artificial intelligence, digital transformation and data-driven development.

The country’s broader economic strategy increasingly places innovation and technology at the centre of future growth.

Vietnam’s expanding network of international partnerships could also create opportunities for foreign investment in infrastructure, manufacturing, energy and technology.

The government is simultaneously seeking closer cooperation with regional partners. Recent talks with Myanmar, for example, included cooperation in high-tech agriculture, telecommunications, information technology, digital transformation, energy and transport infrastructure.

These developments reflect Vietnam’s broader effort to combine diplomatic engagement with economic and technological development.

By strengthening relationships with Russia, France and other major partners, Hanoi is seeking new opportunities for investment, technology transfer and international market access.

The latest diplomatic activity demonstrates Vietnam’s intention to use high-level international engagement as a tool for supporting long-term economic growth and strengthening its position in the global economy.