Vietnam urges restraint amid international order crisis

Vietnam’s President To Lam on Friday 29 May called for restraint, dialogue, and international cooperation amid the crisis in the international order, while warning of the dangers of uncontrolled geopolitical competition and rising instability.

Speaking at the opening session of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, To Lam said the world faces simultaneous crises involving international law, strategic trust, and economic development models.

“The international order crisis shows that international law and restraint must be strengthened,” he said, adding that countries should focus on “responsible coexistence” rather than division, coercion, and mistrust.

The Vietnamese leader stressed that regional peace and stability can only be maintained through dialogue, transparency, and practical cooperation mechanisms.

He warned that reacting to crises only after they occur is no longer sufficient and urged governments to proactively reduce risks before tensions escalate.

To Lam said Vietnam’s national interests are closely tied to regional peace and prosperity, reaffirming Hanoi’s foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and diversification in international relations.

Addressing security issues, To Lam reiterated Vietnam’s longstanding defence policy of ‘four no’s’, including no military alliances and not siding with one country against another.

The Vietnamese president also pointed to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, stating it contributes to global energy shortages and supply chain disruptions, increasing pressure on regional economies and global trade.

This will continue to pose greater challenges, not only for Vietnam but also for the wider region and the world.

Meanwhile, he met with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ahead of his speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue’s opening session, as Hegseth arrived in Singapore to attend the high-level event.