Vietnam's Historic Diplomatic Outreach: To Lam's Landmark Visit to North Korea

In a historic diplomatic move, Vietnam's Communist Party chief To Lam will visit North Korea this week. The visit is the first by a Vietnamese leader in nearly two decades, coinciding with North Korea's military parade celebrating 80 years of its Workers' Party. Hanoi confirmed the news on Monday amidst steady diplomatic exchanges between the two countries.

Scheduled to start on October 9, Lam's three-day visit follows an invitation from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Vietnam's defence minister Phan Van Giang is expected to accompany Lam, emphasizing the robust ties between the two communist states, despite the absence of trade relations. This year marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and North Korea.

The visit follows Lam's recent trip to South Korea, highlighting Vietnam's growing strategic diplomacy in the region. South Korea, preparing for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, underscores the shifting dynamics in regional relations. Notably, U.S. President Donald Trump's planned visits further accentuate the diplomatic spotlight on the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)