To Lam embarks on diplomatic tour of Australia and New Zealand

General Secretary To Lam will head to Australia and New Zealand next week, marking a push to deepen Vietnam’s strategic influence. The August 9–14 trip aims to cement high-level partnerships across critical sectors, including technology, energy, and defense, following a recent upgrade in Vietnam’s diplomatic standing with Canberra.

Editorial·August 6, 2026·reads: 1,983

To Lam embarks on diplomatic tour of Australia and New Zealand

The visit follows Vietnam’s decision to elevate its relationship with Australia to its highest tier earlier this year. With a focus on sustainable growth, the delegation plans to finalize between 12 and 16 bilateral agreements with Australian counterparts, covering digital transformation, healthcare, and agricultural development. Australia remains particularly interested in Vietnam’s significant untapped mineral reserves, which are essential for the production of high-tech components in the automotive and mobile device industries.

In New Zealand, the itinerary centers on trade and economic integration. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon indicated that the discussions will prioritize food and fiber exports, tourism, and aviation, with approximately five to six deals expected to be signed. This diplomatic push reflects Lam’s broader strategy since taking office in 2024 to aggressively expand Vietnam’s international footprint through targeted cooperation in science and education.