The landmark Doi Moi reforms, launched in 1986, transformed Vietnam from a centrally planned economy into a socialist-oriented market economy—ushering in an era of rapid growth and deeper global integration.
In their opening remarks, Dr. Nguyen Hung Son, President of DAV, and Mr. Lewe Paul, KAS Vietnam Resident Representative, underscored Doi Moi’s enduring significance for Vietnam’s global engagement. Mr. Paul drew parallels with Germany’s post-reunification experience, emphasizing that transformation is not a single decision but a continuous process requiring vision, adaption, and perseverance.
The conference featured four thematic sessions covering:
- Economic development,
- Foreign policy and international integration,
- Relations with major powers,
- Promotion of multilateral diplomacy.
Through these discussions, the conference aimed to:
- Provide a comprehensive assessment of the achievements and challenges of Vietnam’s Doi Moi policy over the past 40 years.
- Foster interdisciplinary dialogue on economic, political, social, and foreign policy transformations resulting from Doi Moi.
- Enhance academic exchanges between Vietnamese and international scholars, contributing to stronger research collaboration.
- Propose policy recommendations for Vietnam’s future development based on lessons learned from past experiences.
- Publish and disseminate high-quality research on Vietnam’s socio-economic transformation and foreign relations over the past four decades.
Looking ahead to Vietnam’s 2045 development goals, participants reflected on how the principles of Doi Moi remain a guiding framework. They emphasized the need to balance economic dynamism with diplomatic agility in the face of growing geopolitical complexity, and regional security challenges. These discussions reinforced the importance of adaptive strategies that safeguard national interests while promoting international cooperation.
By revisiting the legacy of doimoi and its implications for foreign policy, the conference underscored Vietnam’s commitment to openness, adaptability, and constructive engagement - principles that will remain central as the nation charts its course toward sustainable development and global integration.
