Vietnam’s Bamboo Diplomacy: A Delicate Balancing Act
Since Vietnam adopted its reform program, known as ‘Doi Moi‘ or renovation, in 1986, its foreign policy has evolved significantly. No longer driven purely by ideology, Vietnam adopts a pragmatic approach characterized by principles of independence, self-reliance, diversification, and multilateralism. These principles include not engaging in military alliances, refraining from supporting one country against another, rejecting foreign military bases on its soil, and abstaining from the use of force.
Adapting Principles Amid Global Changes
In 2019, amidst the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict, Vietnam’s defense white paper elevated these principles to strategic ‘guiding rules’ for safeguarding the nation. This was a refinement of earlier principles stated by the late Communist Party General Secretary, Nguyen Phu Trong, who described his diplomatic approach as bamboo diplomacy: ‘Strong roots, stout trunk and flexible branches,’ allowing Vietnam to uphold its moral values while adjusting to global shifts.
Vietnam’s Response to the Ukraine Crisis
Vietnam’s diplomatic stance towards the Ukraine conflict exemplifies this bamboo diplomacy. Initially, when the crisis began, Vietnam abstained from five United Nations General Assembly votes regarding the war, signifying respect for Russia due to their longstanding ties. This included a vote against suspending Russia from the Human Rights Council.
Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son reached out to Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov shortly after the conflict erupted, seeking a long-term resolution. Since then, high-level interactions have continued, including visits from prominent Russian officials and a significant meeting between Putin and Vietnamese President To Lam in Hanoi, where they pledged to deepen ties.
Offering Support to Ukraine
Simultaneously, Vietnam has conveyed support to Ukraine. On March 16, 2022, Bui Thanh Son assured Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba of Vietnam’s commitment to independence and territorial integrity. Furthermore, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh‘s meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at recent events exemplify the continuing dialogue and solidarity.
A Tightrope Walk Between Powers
The ongoing conflict has placed Vietnam in a diplomatically sensitive situation. Aligned with the United States within Southeast Asia, especially concerning security and concerning China’s growing influence, Vietnam also honors its historic ties with Russia from the days of the ‘American war’. This dual relationship has led to cautious navigation of votes at the UN and other international platforms.
In face of U.S. frustrations over abstentions during UN votes against Russia, the strengthening of U.S.-Vietnam relations was highlighted during President Biden’s state visit in September 2023. This culminated in a declaration of enhancing partnerships to achieve shared goals of peace and prosperity.
The Future of Vietnam’s Diplomacy
As Vietnam manages ongoing sanctions against Russia and evaluates the prospect of restoring arms trades, the diplomatic challenge remains to maintain a favorable position with both powers without compromising its national interests. Ultimately, the resilience and adaptability of ‘bamboo diplomacy’ will be critical as the global landscape continues to shift.
Thi Kim Quy Hoang
The Jakarta Post
Asia News Network
The writer is a PhD researcher at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University.
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