Speaking to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Buenos Aires, Fiorda, author of numerous studies and books on Vietnam during its Doi Moi (Renewal) and international integration, highlighted Vietnam’s strong economic and social performance in the past five years, particularly as the global economy has been shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts in various regions and escalating global trade tensions.

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Argentine journalist Gastón Fiorda of Argentina’s National Radio, a long-time Vietnam expert

He underscored Vietnam’s positive economic achievements during the tenure of the 13th National Party Congress, noting that the country maintained an average GDP growth rate of 5–6% per year, a level considered high compared to regional and global averages.

The Argentine expert placed particular emphasis on Vietnam’s strong post-pandemic recovery, with growth rates among the highest in Asia. In recent years, Vietnam’s economic scale has continued to expand, with nominal GDP surpassing the 400-billion-USD mark, while per capita income has risen steadily.

At the same time, inflation has been kept under control, major macroeconomic balances have largely been safeguarded, and exports have maintained growth momentum, placing Vietnam among the world’s most open economies. Stable disbursement of foreign direct investment (FDI), he noted, reflects the strong confidence of international investors in Vietnam’s business environment.

Fiorda said these outcomes indicate that Vietnam is entering a new phase of development, with a focus on restructuring the State towards greater efficiency, selectively mobilizing resources, and prioritizing investment in key areas such as manufacturing and processing industries, technology, green transition and digital transformation.

He also spoke highly of the role of Vietnam’s younger generation, those born in the post-war era, describing them as open-minded, highly adaptable and increasingly integrated into the global economy, and a crucial driving force for sustainable growth in the years ahead.

On external relations, Fiorda assessed Vietnam’s “bamboo diplomacy” pursued during the 13th tenure as a notable success. He said the policy has enabled Vietnam to firmly uphold its independence and autonomy while flexibly expanding relations with major partners. This soft, dialogue-oriented and adaptive approach to global priorities has helped Vietnam enhance its international standing and emerge as a reliable partner in supply chains and trade cooperation.

Regarding anti-corruption efforts, Fiorda commended the strong political will and concrete results achieved during the 13th tenure, noting that the strict handling of high-ranking officials who committed violations has had a clear social impact and strengthened public trust. However, he also pointed out that a key challenge in the coming period will be to further promote transparency and integrity while ensuring that the administrative apparatus operates smoothly, without disrupting State functions and essential public services.

Source: VNA