Under the theme of nurturing hope, ensuring peace, and safeguarding justice for future generations, the gathering united lawmakers worldwide amid profound international uncertainty and shared global challenges.
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National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man speaks at the general debate of the IPU-152 Assembly in Istanbul. |
Leading Vietnam’s high-level delegation, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man arrived in Istanbul as the representative of a dynamic developing nation and a voice committed to peace, fairness, and sustainable development. Vietnam’s participation reflected its growing international role and consistent belief in multilateral cooperation based on international law.
Meeting point for peace and hope
The choice of Istanbul as host carried strategic and symbolic weight. Spanning two continents, the city links Europe and Asia in geography and spirit, serving as a crossroads for cultures and political histories. Landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace stand as reminders of empires where religion and power shaped the region. This blend of heritage and modern energy made Istanbul a fitting location for a forum focused on peace and justice.
During the Assembly, Istanbul welcomed thousands of parliamentarians, including over 60 Speakers of Parliament and representatives from 110 IPU member parliaments. The schedule of plenary debates and bilateral meetings underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy. The IPU-152 theme reflected urgent realities: restoring hope as trust in institutions is tested, and ensuring peace through concrete action rooted in international law. Protecting justice for future generations necessitates immediate responsibility for sustainable development and narrowing inequality. Delegates addressed common concerns such as prolonged conflicts, climate change, and cybersecurity threats, challenges no nation can solve alone.
Consistent vision for a fairer and more sustainable world
Vietnam entered the forum with confidence, its priorities closely matching its long-standing policy goals. In his address, Chairman Tran Thanh Man highlighted the complexity of the global situation, noting that instability is intensifying due to geopolitical competition and disregard for international law. He pointed to growing trade protectionism and the rise of non-traditional security threats, alongside the opportunities and governance challenges created by artificial intelligence.
To respond, the Vietnamese leader called on member parliaments to strengthen dialogue, promote multilateralism, and respect the U.N. Charter. He emphasized the role of legislatures in improving legal frameworks and overseeing international commitments related to peace, security, and climate action. His remarks received strong applause, reflecting the relevance of Vietnam’s message.
Vietnam’s perspective is grounded in lived experience. Having endured devastating wars, the nation deeply understands the value of peace as the ability to heal and rebuild. Nearly four decades of reform have provided practical lessons in pursuing growth centered on social inclusion. Figures presented at the Assembly showed Vietnam’s economy expanded from USD 346 billion in 2020 to USD 510 billion in 2025, ranking 32nd globally. GDP per capita reached approximately USD 5,000, while the poverty rate fell to 1.3 percent.
Vietnam’s outlook remains consistent: lasting peace requires genuine multilateralism. Once subject to embargoes, Vietnam now holds diplomatic relations with all 195 U.N. member states and has built high-level ties with 40 countries, including comprehensive strategic partnerships with all five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council.
Chairman Tran Thanh Man reaffirmed Vietnam’s goals to become a developing country with modern industry by 2030 and a developed nation by 2045. This vision signals that Vietnam remains a reliable partner, placing people at the center of every strategy. Since joining the IPU in 1979, Vietnam has moved from participation to proactive contribution. Its role at IPU-152 demonstrated that Vietnam is helping shape global discussions with a steadfast commitment to peace, cooperation, and a sustainable future for generations to come.
By Vu Dung (from Istanbul, Turkey)
Translated by Tran Hoai