The Vietnam–Russia Economic Forum 2026, theming “Unleasing Internal Strength in the New Era,” took place in Hanoi on April 8.
The forum was co-organized by the University of Economics and Business (UEB) under the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, and the Vietnam–Russia Friendship Association.
Speaking at the forum, Vietnamese Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu emphasized that the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Russia has been built and nurtured over many decades. Amid a rapidly changing global landscape, further strengthening bilateral cooperation is not only an objective necessity but also a strategic choice for both countries.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, Vietnam–Russia ties have continuously developed. Notably, in March 2026, then Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s official visit to Russia has opened up new opportunities for cooperation in areas such as investment, trade, tourism, defense–security, and science and technology.
Against the backdrop of profound global shifts driven by digital transformation and technological advancement, Deputy Minister Nguyen Minh Vu noted that these trends present both opportunities and significant challenges for every nation. In this context, strengthening internal capacity has become a key factor in maintaining rapid, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
“This is the time for us to identify solutions to unlock endogenous drivers while exploring new directions to enhance the effectiveness of cooperation between Vietnam and the Russian Federation,” he stressed.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Vietnam, H.E. Mr. Gennady Stepanovich Bezdetko, stated that 2026 marks an important milestone in bilateral cooperation, affirming that Vietnam–Russia relations are entering a new phase of development with expanded opportunities across key sectors.
According to the Ambassador, Russia places great importance on enhancing cooperation in economic, scientific, and educational fields. Expanding exchanges between government agencies and relevant institutions is also a crucial factor in strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. Russia stands ready to provide maximum support for constructive initiatives in these areas, he noted.
From an educational perspective, Associate Professor Dr. Dao Thanh Truong, Vice President of VNU noted that Vietnam–Russia relations are built on a strong traditional foundation, in which cooperation in education, science, and human resource development remains a key pillar.
“In the new context, promoting internal strength should be placed in a mutually reinforcing relationship with international cooperation, where knowledge and technology serve as vital connectors,” he said.
At the forum, many experts also observed that as the global economy shifts toward a more multipolar structure, there remains substantial room for cooperation between Vietnam and Russia. Sectors such as trade, energy, education, and technology offer significant potential for deeper collaboration, thereby enhancing domestic capabilities and strengthening the economic resilience of both countries in the coming times
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