Hanoi, May 6, 2026 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng will attend the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Cebu, the Philippines, from May 7 to 8. This visit marks the Prime Minister’s first overseas trip and his debut at an ASEAN Summit in his new capacity.
According to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Đặng Hoàng Giang, PM Hưng’s participation conveys a clear message of Việt Nam’s commitment to a “proactive and responsible” spirit in building the ASEAN Community.
Diplomatic Significance and Foreign Policy
The Prime Minister’s presence underscores Việt Nam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and the diversification of external relations. Key strategic objectives include:
- ASEAN Centrality: Reaffirming the bloc as a top strategic priority.
- Stability & Unity: Working with member states to maintain peace and uphold ASEAN’s central role in the regional architecture.
- Sustainable Development: Creating favorable conditions for regional growth and strengthening bilateral ties with neighbors.
Key Priorities for 2026
Under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the 48th Summit marks the start of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship. Việt Nam will focus on several substantive contributions:
- Vision 2045: Effectively implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its strategic plans across political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars.
- Regional Security: Addressing urgent issues including energy security, food security, and citizen protection.
- Global Engagement: Promoting international law, multilateralism, and deepening relations with external partners.
Navigating a Complex Global Backdrop
Deputy Minister Giang noted that the summit takes place amidst “rapidly evolving and increasingly complex” global dynamics, such as tensions in the Middle East, supply chain disruptions, and rising protectionism.
The summit serves as a platform for the 11 ASEAN member states to align strategic orientations and adopt decisions that enhance the bloc’s resilience against these external pressures.
Bilateral Engagements
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Hưng is scheduled to hold his first in-person bilateral meetings with other ASEAN leaders. these engagements are intended to reinforce political trust, enhance friendship, and promote “substantive and fruitful” cooperation between Việt Nam and its regional partners.
Through these efforts, Việt Nam seeks to project its image as a constructive member ready to contribute to regional peace and elevate its international standing.
