Editor’s Note – Forum on the New Era
Vietnam is well-positioned to emerge as a global leader, with wealth and prosperity signifying its “Rising Era.”
Following his election as General Secretary of the 13th Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam on August 3, 2024, General Secretary and President To Lam delivered important speeches across various sectors.
In three influential writings, notably “Resolute in Building a Strong Party, a Wealthy and Powerful Vietnam, a Democratic, Just, and Civilized Nation” on August 4, “Digital Transformation – A Key Driver for Developing the Productive Forces and Perfecting Production Relations in Vietnam’s New Era” on September 2, and “Continuing to Innovate the Party’s Leadership and Governance – A Pressing Requirement in the New Revolutionary Phase” on September 16, General Secretary To Lam often highlighted themes of “new beginnings,” “a new era,” and “the rising era of the Vietnamese people.”
He emphasized the opportunities and challenges faced by Vietnam on both regional and global stages, declaring under his leadership that the country stands at a pivotal moment—a new era characterized by rising aspirations. He stated that innovative leadership and improved governance are urgently required.
This vision received unanimous support during the 10th Central Committee meeting and has been included in draft documents for the upcoming 14th National Party Congress.
As Vietnam transitions into this new phase, VietNamNet has initiated the forum “The New Era of the Nation,” designed to showcase contributions from scholars, intellectuals, and readers on Vietnam’s pathway to success…
Vietnam’s Journey Through Independence and Renewal
In a speech at Columbia University on September 23, 2024, General Secretary To Lam stated: “After nearly 80 years of Independence and almost 40 years of Renewal, Vietnam is at a new historical junction—the era of Vietnam’s ascent.”
This succinct overview will ensure that both the American population and the global community recognize Vietnam’s historical journey defined by three significant phases of struggle and progress.
While not explicitly mentioned, it’s evident that this ongoing third phase will culminate when Vietnam reaches its centenary of independence in around 20 years, each of these eras marked by essential conditions to fulfill their respective missions vital for the nation’s survival and growth.
Vietnam has articulated a commitment to national independence during its Independence Era, pursued the goal of a prosperous nation during the Renewal Era, and is now poised to affirm its place among global powers in the Era of Ascent.
The Party has developed increasingly comprehensive plans, policies, and strategies over the years. The government has started implementing initiatives and frameworks for development as Vietnam approaches its centenary. During the upcoming 14th Party Congress, key matters for the first five years of this 20-year Ascent Era will be addressed.
If the hallmark of the Independence Era is the motto, “Everywhere you go, you meet heroes,” then the defining phrase for the Renewal Era is “No one is left behind.” The courageous individuals who fought for independence laid the foundation for freedom. In a post-war context, pursuing happiness for all is imperative for meaningful independence.
Vietnam has adeptly responded to the demands of these two previous eras, achieving remarkable progress in nation-building and development. Reflecting on the foundation set by these eras, we now turn to the distinct features of the upcoming third era. This is a significant topic, and I aim to contribute to this broader understanding.
The Era of Vietnam’s Ascent, announced by General Secretary and President To Lam at a prestigious American university, will be a subject of future analysis and discourse, scrutinizing Vietnam’s socio-political and economic narrative amid unpredictable global events.
The vision of Vietnam positioning itself alongside major world powers was originally articulated by President Ho Chi Minh during the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. The terms “Communist,” “Democratic,” and “Republic” in Vietnam’s official name hold significance. The Communist Party of Vietnam and the American parties have navigated through conflict to establish peace and drive development, culminating in a robust bilateral partnership.
The Era of Ascent signifies not the awakening of a dormant nation but rather the vigorous rise of a proactive, determined Vietnam eager to join global leadership circles. Key groups like the G7, G10, and G20 proudly represent these nations.
To enter this elite echelon, Vietnam aims to become the 21st member, possibly replacing one of the existing 20 nations. This journey is a 20-year marathon, reflected in four consecutive 5-year terms shaping the country’s political landscape. Any lapse in this system risks jeopardizing Vietnam’s aspiration of global prominence.
Vietnam has a proven political framework capable of navigating this marathon effectively. Moreover, it must articulate the defining characteristics that will shape the Era of Ascent.
Applying the templates of the Independence or Renewal eras to this new phase would be misguided. The Renewal era succeeded in alleviating hunger and poverty, allowing Vietnam to emerge as a contender against the middle-income trap that many nations still face.
In transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy, Vietnam laid the groundwork for the Era of Ascent. Currently, Vietnam holds unprecedented stature, potential, and respect on the international stage, a point reiterated by the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.
Building on the achievements of the Renewal era, the Era of Ascent cannot solely depend on a socialist-oriented market economy. Instead, it must actively pursue prosperity through socialist principles. At its essence, Communism aims to enrich citizens, thereby fostering a stronger nation characterized by democracy, equity, and civilization. The Communist Party of Vietnam is wholly committed to the nation’s and its people’s welfare.
Prosperity
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Vietnam’s Path to Prosperity
For centuries, the dream of becoming a global powerhouse has eluded Vietnam. However, the country is now poised to realize this potential over the next two decades, with prosperity becoming the hallmark of its new era.
During the Era of Renewal, wealth generation for individuals and families became attainable. Yet, true national prosperity will be realized in this upcoming Era of Ascent.
If Vietnam fails to elevate itself, many family businesses and private firms will remain relatively small, with only a few achieving wider recognition. This seems to be the natural progression from the previous era. A transition to a new era is essential for the nation to harness the remarkable advancements of our time for collective success.
Long Thanh International Airport is set to open soon, easing the pressure on Vietnam’s existing aviation infrastructure that has suffered for decades. An international-grade seaport is also under rapid construction on the southeastern coast to maximize the country’s maritime capabilities. In the near term, the nation will commence work on a modern high-speed railway system, replacing outdated tracks from the French colonial era.
These infrastructure developments are expected to provide a substantial boost to Vietnam’s GDP during the Era of Ascent. However, these benefits are likely to pale in comparison to the opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by semiconductor technologies that allow for rapid economic growth and numerous calculations per second.
The latter part of the Era of Renewal saw the emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, setting the stage for a future where Vietnam can leverage its resources in semiconductor production, electrical supply, and, most critically, a skilled labor force.
With all these elements converging, there is immense potential to propel industries forward and advance semiconductor innovation, including the development of next-generation chips that are 3mm and below. Vietnam’s Era of Ascent is primed to unlock wealth for its people.
However, it’s important to emphasize that the true driver behind this transformation is the population. Vietnam consists of a mix of affluent individuals, the underprivileged, and a substantial middle class. While precise statistics are lacking, the wealth gap does not appear vast, with most citizens falling within the middle-income bracket.
As the nation embraces the Era of Ascent, it may be time for a paradigm shift from the motto “No one is left behind” to “No one is left to struggle without support.” Special attention should be directed towards the middle class, who, having moved beyond poverty, are eager to elevate their economic status. With the right backing, this group can rapidly join the ranks of the wealthy.
Once a significant portion of the population achieves prosperity, the goals of the Era of Ascent will be fulfilled, allowing Vietnam to stand confidently among the world’s leading nations.
Ultimately, Vietnam’s prosperity will stem from a development model oriented around socialism. This vision encompasses collective wealth where the populace thrives, the nation grows strong, and society fosters democracy, equity, and civility. In this shared endeavor, there will be no tolerance for oppression, exploitation, or corruption.
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