Seoul, August 12, 2025 – The Europe Today: Party General Secretary Tô Lâm on Monday delivered a keynote address at Yonsei University, one of the Republic of Korea (RoK)’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, as part of his ongoing state visit to the country.
Speaking at the 140-year-old university, widely recognised as a symbol of Korean intellect and resilience, General Secretary Lâm emphasised the importance of strengthening connectivity and trust to advance the Vietnam–RoK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, prosperity, cooperation, and development. He commended the university’s legacy of producing distinguished alumni, including renowned scientists, artists, athletes, and political leaders, expressing confidence that future graduates would uphold the institution’s tradition of excellence and global contribution.
In his address, the Vietnamese leader shared perspectives on global and regional developments, noting risks of economic fragmentation, disrupted supply chains, and over-reliance on limited resources. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s determination to enter a new era of prosperity and modernisation, guided by its traditions and inspired by the achievements of partners such as the RoK.
Outlining Vietnam’s development goals to 2030, with a vision to 2045, General Secretary Lâm highlighted the country’s transformation from a war-torn, embargoed nation into a dynamic emerging economy and ASEAN leader in foreign investment and trade. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to its “four no’s” defence policy and its role as a responsible, cooperative member of the international community.
Reflecting on bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1992, Lâm praised the rapid development of mutual trust and strategic collaboration between the two nations. He proposed key orientations for future cooperation, including deeper political trust, enhanced defence and security ties, expanded economic and technological collaboration, and greater cultural, educational, and people-to-people exchanges.
He particularly encouraged Korean investment in strategic infrastructure and value-chain industrial complexes in Vietnam, identifying science, technology, innovation, and human resource development as new pillars of bilateral relations.
Addressing the younger generation, the Party chief cited late President Hồ Chí Minh’s vision of youth as the “spring of society,” urging Vietnamese students in the RoK to serve as goodwill ambassadors for bilateral friendship. He stressed that young people are the decisive force for national prosperity and a stronger Vietnam–RoK partnership.
At the conclusion of the event, Yonsei University President Professor Yoon Dong Sup conferred an honorary doctorate on General Secretary Lâm in recognition of his contributions to fostering friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the RoK.
