Vietnam’s top leader, General Secretary of the Communist Party and State President To Lam, departed Hanoi on Monday, 7 September, accompanied by his spouse Ngo Phuong Ly and a high‑ranking delegation. The itinerary combines a state visit to the Russian Federation, an official visit to the French Republic, and participation in the International Space Summit scheduled in Paris. The delegation’s stay spans from 7 to 12 September, covering six days of diplomatic and scientific engagements.
Moscow Visit
In Moscow, President To Lam is expected to meet President Vladimir Putin and senior Russian officials to discuss bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, and defence, as well as to reinforce Vietnam’s strategic partnership with Russia. The visit follows a series of recent high‑level exchanges between the two countries, underscoring mutual interests in regional security and economic development.
Paris Visit
Following the Russian leg, the delegation will travel to Paris for an official state visit to France. Talks with President Emmanuel Macron are slated to focus on deepening economic ties, expanding French investment in Vietnam’s infrastructure projects, and enhancing collaboration in education and technology sectors. Cultural events are also planned to celebrate the long‑standing friendship between the two nations.
International Space Summit
Concurrently, President To Lam will attend the International Space Summit, a premier forum gathering space agencies, industry leaders, and policymakers. Vietnam aims to showcase its emerging space programme, seek partnerships for satellite development, and explore opportunities for scientific cooperation. The summit provides a platform for Vietnam to position itself as an active participant in the global space community while attracting foreign expertise and investment.
The combined diplomatic tour reflects Vietnam’s broader foreign‑policy strategy of diversifying partnerships, advancing technological capabilities, and reinforcing its role on the international stage.