Vietnam’s National Assembly Embraces Legislative Diplomacy for Future Growth

In a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, Vietnam is strategically elevating the role of its National Assembly beyond traditional legislative functions, positioning it as a key instrument of foreign policy. This shift, highlighted by economic arbitrator Mr. Phan Kien Cuong, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Economic and Trade Development Consulting Center (VICENDETI), emphasizes proactive leadership in international forums and a commitment to deeper legal integration.

From Participation to Proactive Leadership

Mr. Phan Kien Cuong advocates for a fundamental change in mindset – moving from mere participation to proactive leadership within multilateral organizations such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), and the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF). This involves proactively proposing innovative legal frameworks, particularly in emerging areas like cross-border cybersecurity governance, artificial intelligence (AI) ethics, and green trade standards. By contributing to the establishment of international norms, Vietnam aims to secure a strategic advantage on the global stage.

Deepening Integration Through Legal Harmonization

A crucial aspect of this strategy involves the “adoption” and “harmonization” of laws to facilitate deeper integration into the global economy. The National Assembly is prioritizing the review and implementation of international standards stemming from agreements like the European Union-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (CPTPP). This commitment to aligning with high global standards is intended to foster a transparent and trustworthy investment environment, safeguarding national interests.

Strengthening Thematic Diplomacy Between Committees

To enhance the effectiveness of legislative diplomacy, Mr. Phan Kien Cuong stresses the importance of strengthening “thematic diplomacy” between specialized parliamentary committees. Direct links between Vietnam’s Economic Committee, Legal Affairs Committee, and Science and Technology Committee, and their counterparts in developed nations – particularly within the European Union – will facilitate substantive exchanges on legislative experiences. Specifically, technocratic discussions on areas like energy transition and the circular economy can accelerate Vietnam’s progress towards its sustainable development goals.

Enhancing Oversight of International Agreements

Effective oversight of international agreements is identified as the fourth strategic pillar. Mr. Phan Kien Cuong argues that the National Assembly must exercise its oversight role to ensure the effective implementation of treaties and agreements signed by the government. This will optimize the allocation of international cooperation resources, promote economic development at both local and national levels, and enable timely policy adjustments to maximize the benefits of foreign relations.

A Pivotal Moment for Vietnam

As Vietnam strives to develop into a developed, high-income country, legislative diplomacy is poised to play a pivotal role in institutional development. A reformed and more efficient National Assembly is considered essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for Vietnam.

Source: VietnamPlus