Vietnam positions technology diplomacy at the centre of digital transformation
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Anh Tuan said the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented digital transformation measures such as online administrative procedures, AI pilots and new governance frameworks, and outlined four priority solutions for further development.
Vietnam is positioning technology diplomacy as a central element of its foreign policy, viewing digital transformation as a broader process of governance innovation rather than simply the digitalisation of diplomatic work, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Anh Tuan said.
According to Tuan, Vietnam has already integrated cooperation on AI, semiconductors, digital infrastructure and workforce development into high-level diplomatic engagement.
Vietnamese missions abroad are increasingly monitoring global technology trends, participating in international technology governance discussions and connecting domestic institutions with foreign governments, businesses and experts. Within the ministry itself, AI is being piloted to support report generation and information processing, while broader digital transformation has moved most administrative procedures and document management online.
Looking ahead, the deputy minister outlined four priorities, such as expanding technology diplomacy through international cooperation on AI, quantum technologies and strategic minerals, building a fully digital Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported by AI and data analytics by 2030, contributing to international rules on AI, data governance, cybersecurity and the digital economy, and training a new generation of ‘digital diplomats’ with expertise in both diplomacy and emerging technologies.
Why does it matter?
Vietnam’s approach reflects a broader shift in diplomacy, where technological capabilities are becoming an integral part of foreign policy alongside traditional political and economic priorities. Governments are increasingly using diplomatic networks to attract investment, shape international technology rules and strengthen domestic digital transformation.
The emphasis on AI, digital governance and workforce development also illustrates how technology diplomacy is evolving beyond international cooperation into a tool for national competitiveness, institutional modernisation and geopolitical engagement.
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