Hanoi, August 03, 2024, The Europe Today: NHC reported that, in a momentous press conference held immediately after his election by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Party General Secretary and President Tô Lâm expressed profound gratitude and outlined his vision for the country’s future. The election, which took place on Saturday morning, marks a significant chapter in Vietnam’s political landscape.
Tô Lâm conveyed that being elected as Party General Secretary is both an honor and a glorious responsibility. In his inaugural speech, he paid homage to the late General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng, who passed away on July 19. Lâm described Trọng as an exceptionally outstanding leader, a steadfast communist party member with immense prestige within the Party, State, and among the People. Trọng embodied the qualities, talents, bravery, and intelligence of Vietnamese leadership during the Đổi Mới (Renewal) period.
Lâm emphasized the urgent and regular requirements of the Party and State in building and developing the country and caring for the lives of the people. He stated that the Politburo and the Central Committee’s decision to consolidate leadership positions, starting with the General Secretary of the Party Central Committee, is essential for achieving the goals of the 13th National Party Congress and preparing for the Party congresses at all levels leading to the 14th National Party Congress. This consolidation aims to lay a solid foundation for achieving strategic goals for the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Party and the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, while also defining a future vision that elevates Vietnam to stand alongside powerful nations globally, contributing to global peace and development.
Historic Election Process
The election of the General Secretary mid-term was conducted in accordance with the Party’s Statutes and the personnel orientation of the Central Committee of the 13th Party National Congress, following the Party’s regulations on personnel work. This mid-term election is not unprecedented, with previous instances including the elections of General Secretaries Trường Chinh and Lê Khả Phiêu.
Tô Lâm highlighted the meticulous preparation and nomination process for the General Secretary position, conducted in strict adherence to principles, standards, and procedures stipulated by the Party.
Vision and Commitment
In his speech, Lâm stated: “In my capacity as General Secretary, I will work with the Central Committee of the Party, the Politburo, and the Secretariat to strongly uphold and further the glorious traditions and valuable experiences of our Party, to fully promote the spirit of ‘self-reliance, self-confidence, self-sufficiency, national pride’; to enhance solidarity and unity within the Party and the great national unity among the people; to align thoughts and actions, the Party’s will and the people’s hearts; to strive to successfully implement the Party’s policies and guidelines, especially the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress; to dedicate wholeheartedly, strive and sacrifice for the cause of the glorious Communist Party of Vietnam, for a rich, strong, democratic, just, and civilized Socialist Republic of Vietnam, where the Vietnamese people live in prosperity and happiness.”
Unity as Vietnam’s Strength
Addressing a question from a VNA reporter, Tô Lâm expressed his deep emotions and sincere gratitude towards his comrades, compatriots, and international friends. He emphasized the importance of unity and consensus as the strength of the Party and the country, enabling them to overcome challenges and achieve victories.
Anti-Corruption Efforts
Responding to questions about the fight against corruption and negativity, Lâm reaffirmed the Party’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption with no exceptions or forbidden zones. Efforts will focus on eliminating corruption within agencies responsible for anti-corruption and extending anti-corruption measures beyond the state sector, thereby cleansing the Party and state apparatus.
Strengthening International Relations
On foreign policy priorities, Tô Lâm clarified that the Communist Party of Vietnam’s general line, particularly the resolution of the 13th Party National Congress, remains unchanged. The Party aims to continue strengthening international relations, contributing to global peace and development.
The election of Tô Lâm as General Secretary and President marks a pivotal moment for Vietnam, promising a future of continued growth, unity, and prosperity under his leadership.