Vietnam’s Party General Secretary To Lam (left) welcomes Laos’ Party General Secretary Thongloun Sisoulith to Hanoi on January 26.

To Lam’s century-long development vision for Vietnam

As Laos and the region observe Vietnam’s political developments with close interest, the vision articulated by General Secretary To Lam has drawn particular attention for its long-term scope and strategic depth.
More than a short-term political agenda, To Lam’s vision is increasingly described by Vietnamese scholars and officials as a “century-long vision”—one that looks beyond immediate reforms towards the fundamental shaping of the nation’s future through 2045 and beyond.
At its core, this vision is anchored in two historic milestones: 2030, marking the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and 2045, commemorating the centenary of the founding of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
These milestones are not just symbolic, they serve as strategic benchmarks guiding Vietnam’s political stability, economic modernisation, social development, and global integration.

A Vision Rooted in Stability and Renewal
To Lam’s approach stresses that long-term national development must be built on political stability, institutional strength, and social consensus. In recent years, Vietnam has focused on strengthening Party discipline, improving governance capacity, and reinforcing public trust in state institutions. This emphasis reflects an understanding that without a strong and credible political foundation, ambitious economic and social goals cannot be sustained.
At the same time, the vision embraces renewal. Institutional reform, legal transparency, and administrative efficiency are viewed not as optional adjustments but as structural necessities for a modern state. This balance between continuity and reform is a defining feature of the century-long perspective.
Development Driven by the People
A central pillar of To Lam’s vision is the principle that people are both the centre and the driving force of development. Recent policy directions in Vietnam place strong emphasis on education, healthcare, cultural development, and human capital. These priorities signal a shift from growth measured purely by economic indicators towards a more comprehensive model that values well-being, opportunity, and social cohesion.
In this framework, peace and stability are not abstract ideals but practical conditions for development. A prosperous society, in this view, is one where citizens feel secure, healthy, educated, and confident about the future.
Economic Transformation with Strategic Autonomy
Another key aspect of the vision is economic transformation combined with strategic autonomy. Vietnam aims to become a high-income, developed country while maintaining independence in policymaking and resilience against external shocks. This includes diversifying supply chains, advancing science and technology, promoting the private sector, and ensuring energy security through green and renewable sources.
Rather than choosing between openness and self-reliance, the vision seeks to integrate both—remaining deeply connected to the global economy while safeguarding national interests.
A Proactive and Responsible International Role
From a regional perspective, To Lam’s century-long vision underscores Vietnam’s intention to be a responsible, proactive, and constructive member of the international community. Vietnam’s foreign policy emphasises peace, cooperation, and respect for international law, while actively contributing to regional stability and development.
For neighbouring countries, including Laos, this approach reinforces shared interests in sustainable development, connectivity, and long-term peace. A stable and forward-looking Vietnam contributes positively to ASEAN unity and regional resilience.
Looking Ahead
“To Lam’s vision, a century-long one” is ultimately about continuity across generations. It is a vision that looks beyond individual terms of office, focusing instead on building institutions, values, and capabilities that will endure. By aligning political leadership, economic reform, and social development with long-term national goals, Vietnam seeks to write a story not only of growth, but of lasting peace, dignity, and prosperity.
For observers in the region, this long-view approach offers valuable insights into how a nation can plan not just for the next decade, but for the next hundred years.

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update February 2, 2026)