Interview with H.E. Duong Hoai Nam

In this interview, we speak with His Excellency Duong Hoai Nam, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Czech Republic, about
the long-standing relations between Vietnam and the Czech Republic,
the Vietnamese community, historical experiences, economic transformation, and his personal diplomatic journey in Prague.

1. 1. Your Excellency, relations between Vietnam and the former Czechoslovakia date back several decades. Which historical milestones do you consider particularly important for today’s Czech–Vietnamese relations?

From the perspective of Vietnam, Czech–Vietnamese relations are rooted in
a long history of solidarity, mutual respect, and people-to-people bonds, shaped by a number of key milestones that continue to resonate today.

One of the most significant milestones was the early establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, when former Czechoslovakia was among the first countries which recognized the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. This early support, at a time when Vietnam was striving for independence and national reunification, laid a foundation of trust and political goodwill that still underpins our bilateral ties. During the following decades, especially from the 1950s to the 1980s, Czechoslovakia provided valuable assistance in education, industry, healthcare, and technical training. Thousands of Vietnamese students and workers lived, studied, and worked in Czechoslovakia, forming deep personal connections and an enduring sense of affinity toward the Czech people.

Another important milestone was the peaceful transformation of Czechoslovakia and the establishment of the Czech Republic in 1993. Vietnam highly appreciated the Czech Republic’s commitment to continuing and renewing relations with Vietnam in a spirit of time-tested friendship and openness. This period marked a transition from traditional cooperation to
a more comprehensive and forward-looking relationship, grounded in market economy principles and international integration.

The growing Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic represents a further milestone of lasting importance. As the third largest as well as the 14^th and most well-integrated foreign communities in the country, Vietnamese residents have been serving as a living bridge between our two nations, contributing actively to Czech society while preserving strong cultural and emotional ties with Vietnam.

Finally, the establishment of a Strategic Partnership during the official visit of H.E. Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam, to Czechia in January 2025  reflects the maturity of our relations and our shared aspiration to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, education, and people-to-people exchange. These milestones together form a solid historical continuum that continues to guide and inspire Czech–Vietnamese relations today.

2. 2. Vietnam’s modern history was strongly shaped by the colonial period under French rule. How does this colonial legacy continue to influence Vietnam’s political thinking, national identity, and foreign policy today?

In my personal view, Vietnam’s experience under French colonial rule has left a profound and lasting imprint on our political thinking, national identity, and approach to foreign policy. The colonial period strengthened the Vietnamese people’s aspiration for independence, sovereignty, and self-determination—values that remain critical to our national consciousness and identity today.
The long struggle to regain independence forged a strong sense of unity and resilience, which continues to shape how Vietnam sees itself and the world today.

Politically, this historical experience has reinforced Vietnam’s emphasis on safeguarding national sovereignty and pursuing a development path suited to its own conditions. It has also contributed to upholding international law,
the U.N. Charter, social justice, national dignity, and the right of every nation to choose its own political and economic system without external interference.

In terms of national identity, the colonial legacy heightened awareness of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and the importance of preserving it while engaging the world. Vietnam today remains open to international cooperation, yet firmly rooted in its historical traditions and collective memory.

In foreign policy, the lessons of the colonial era underpin Vietnam’s commitment to independence, self-reliance, multilateralism and diversification of its external relations. Vietnam seeks to be a responsible and constructive member of the international community, promoting peaceful cooperation, mutual respect, and equality among nations—principles shaped by our own historical experience and shared with partners around the world.

3. 3. The Vietnam War remains one of the most defining events of the 20th century. From today’s Vietnamese perspective, what are the most important lessons learned from this conflict, both domestically and internationally?

From today’s Vietnamese perspective, the Vietnam War remains a defining chapter in our modern history, offering enduring lessons for both national development and international relations.

Domestically, the conflict highlighted the decisive importance of national unity, resilience, strategic autonomy and the collective will of the people in overcoming immense hardship. At the same time, it underscored the long-term human cost of war, reinforcing Vietnam’s deep commitment to reconciliation, healing, and social cohesion. The post-war period taught us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a continuous process of rebuilding trust, restoring livelihoods, and creating opportunities for future generations.

The war also shaped Vietnam’s understanding of development. It made clear that independence must go hand in hand with economic growth, social stability, and openness to international cooperation. This realization has guided Vietnam’s “Doi Moi” (Renovation) and its focus on improving the quality of life for its people.

Internationally, the Vietnam War affirmed the principle that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to international law. It demonstrated the limitations of force in resolving complex political and social conflicts. These lessons continue to have significant bearing on Vietnam’s foreign policy today, which emphasizes independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, and constructive engagement, as well as our active contribution to peace, stability, and cooperation in the region and beyond.

4. After decades of a centrally planned economy, Vietnam embarked on a gradual transition toward a market-oriented economy under the policy of Đổi Mới. How do you assess this path from socialism toward a market-based, yet distinctly Vietnamese, economic model?

I think Vietnam’s path from a centrally planned economy toward a market-oriented one has been uneasy, yet distinctly Vietnamese. Our economic model has been a gradual, pragmatic, and carefully calibrated process. Initiated with the “Doi Moi” reforms in 1986, this transformation was guided not by ideology alone, but by the practical need to improve living standards, unlock the country’s potential and productivity, and integrate Vietnam into the global economy while maintaining social stability.

We assess this path as a successful synthesis of market mechanisms and socialist orientation. The state continues to play a strategic role in setting long-term development priorities, ensuring social equity, and investing in key sectors, while the market serves as an efficient instrument for allocating resources, encouraging innovation, and attracting both domestic and foreign investment. This balance has enabled Vietnam to achieve sustained economic growth, significant poverty reduction, and rapid human development over
the past decades.

More importantly, Vietnam’s model reflects our historical experience, cultural values, and national conditions. Economic openness has gone hand in hand with a strong emphasis on social cohesion, education, and inclusive development, ensuring that growth benefits broad segments of society. At the same time, Vietnam remains open to learning from international partners, including European countries such as the Czech Republic, whose experience with economic transition offers valuable insights.

While challenges remain, particularly in innovation, sustainability, and governance, Vietnam views its development path as dynamic and evolving—one that prioritizes stability, resilience, and long-term prosperity in an increasingly interconnected world.

5. 5. The Vietnamese community is the largest and best-integrated Asian community in the Czech Republic. How do you assess its role as a bridge between the two societies?

As I mentioned earlier, the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic plays an exceptionally important role as a living bridge between our two societies. Over nearly eight decades, this community has grown not only in size, but also in depth of integration, contributing actively to the economic, social, and cultural life of the Czech Republic. Vietnamese entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and families have become a familiar and respected part of Czech society, particularly at the local level.

At the same time, the community preserves strong cultural, linguistic, and emotional ties with Vietnam. This dual belonging allows Czech citizens to gain a closer understanding of Vietnamese traditions, values, and contemporary developments, while also helping Vietnamese people better understand Czech culture, laws, and social norms. In this sense, the community functions as a natural and effective channel of mutual understanding.

The second and third generations of Czech citizens of Vietnamese origin deserve special mention. Fluent in both languages and cultures, they are increasingly active in business, education, science, culture, and public life.
Their success stories symbolize the future-oriented nature of Czech–Vietnamese relations.

From the perspective of the Embassy of Vietnam, the community also plays an invaluable role in strengthening economic ties, educational exchanges, and people-to-people diplomacy. Its positive integration and strong work ethic contribute significantly to mutual trust and friendship between our two countries, and enhance the image and standing of Vietnam in Czechia. And I am truly proud of them!

6. 6. Economic cooperation between Vietnam and the Czech Republic has intensified in recent years. In which sectors do you currently see the greatest potential for further development?

It can be said that economic cooperation between Vietnam and the Czech Republic has indeed gained new momentum in recent years, supported by growing mutual trust, complementary economic structures, and the implementation of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

From my personal perspective, several sectors stand out as particularly promising for further development.

First, industry and manufacturing offer strong potential. The Czech Republic’s strengths in engineering, machinery, automotive components, chemical products, and industrial technologies align well with Vietnam’s expanding manufacturing base and its ambition to move up global value chains. Cooperation in smart manufacturing, automation, and supporting industries as well as digitalization can bring tangible benefits to both sides.

Second, energy and environmental technologies represent an important area for future collaboration. Vietnam is undergoing a rapid energy transition and places high priority on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable urban development. Czech expertise in clean technologies, water management, and environmental protection is highly relevant in this context.

Third, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and medical technologies are emerging sectors of interest, particularly in light of Vietnam’s growing middle class and increasing demand for high-quality healthcare services. Education, research, and innovation—especially technical and vocational training—also hold significant potential, building on long-standing academic ties between our countries. Vietnamese skilled workers can significantly mitigate Czechia’s labor shortage, which has left companies missing approximately 250,000 workers per year, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and services.

Finally, tourism, logistics, and digital economy cooperation are expanding areas, supported by people-to-people links and growing connectivity. Direct flights between the two countries, tentatively happen later this year, will provide fresh impetus to our bilateral trade turnover and tourism. Together, these sectors provide a solid foundation for deepening Czech–Vietnamese economic partnership in the years ahead.

7. Vietnam is among the most dynamic economies in Southeast Asia. What makes Vietnam particularly attractive for Czech investors and companies today?

Vietnam’s strong economic dynamism is the outcome of long-term reforms, political stability, and deep integration into the global economy with a wide network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). All of which make the country an attractive destination for Czech investors and companies today. Vietnam offers a combination of high growth potential and a predictable development trajectory, which is especially important for long-term investment decisions.

One key factor is Vietnam’s strategic location in Southeast Asia, providing access to a market of more than 100 million people domestically and to wider regional supply chains through ASEAN and multiple FTAs, including
the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. This framework significantly improves market access and legal certainty for Czech businesses.

Vietnam also benefits from a young, skilled, and increasingly well-educated workforce, with strong emphasis on science, engineering, and technology.
For Czech companies with strengths in manufacturing, engineering, energy, healthcare, and environmental technologies, Vietnam offers natural complementarities and opportunities for value-added cooperation.

In addition, the Vietnamese government continues to improve the business environment through administrative reforms, digitalization, and support for innovation and green growth. The presence of a well-integrated Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic further facilitates business contacts, cultural understanding, and trust.

Together, these factors position Vietnam as a reliable, forward-looking, and competitive partner for Czech investors seeking sustainable growth in Asia.

8. Vietnam is geographically and historically close to China, while at the same time maintaining a strong sense of sovereignty. How would you describe Vietnam’s approach to cooperation and competition with the People’s Republic of China in the current global environment?

It is really a wide-ranging and tough question! But I will try to answer this in a simple manner.

Vietnam’s approach to relations with the People’s Republic of China is shaped by geography, history, and a clear understanding of national interests. China is Vietnam’s close neighbor and one of our most important partners, and Vietnam consistently pursues a policy of maintaining stable, constructive, and mutually beneficial relations with China on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and international law.

At the same time, Vietnam’s historical experience has reinforced a strong commitment to independence and sovereignty. Our approach therefore combines cooperation where interests align with principled firmness in safeguarding legitimate national interests. Vietnam promotes dialogue and peaceful means to manage differences, particularly on sensitive issues, in accordance with international law and the U.N. Charter.

In the current global environment, Vietnam views cooperation and competition as not mutually exclusive, but as realities that must be managed responsibly. Economically, Vietnam seeks to deepen trade and supply-chain connectivity while also diversifying partners to enhance resilience. Politically and diplomatically, Vietnam advocates adherence to international law, including the United Nations Charter and the 1982 UNCLOS, as the foundation for peaceful coexistence.

This balanced approach is part of Vietnam’s broader foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, and diversification of external relations. Vietnam strives to be a constructive, responsible actor that contributes to peace, stability, and cooperation in the region, while maintaining balanced relations with all major partners, including China.

9. 9. Beyond economics, culture, education, and science play an important role in bilateral relations. Which cultural or academic exchange initiatives are especially close to your heart?

I fully agree that, beyond economic cooperation, culture, education, and science form the emotional and intellectual foundation of Czech–Vietnamese relations.

Cultural exchange initiatives that bring our peoples closer at the human level are invaluable. Vietnamese cultural festivals, film screenings, and exhibitions organized in Czech cities allow the Czech public to experience Vietnam’s rich traditions and contemporary creativity, while Czech cultural activities in Vietnam help deepen mutual understanding and respect.

In education, academic exchanges have a special significance given our shared history. Generations of Vietnamese students were educated in former Czechoslovakia, and many of them have become bridges between our two countries. Today, I am especially encouraged by university partnerships, and student exchanges in fields such as engineering, medicine, information technology, and environmental sciences. In this connection, I do hope that
the Czech Government will provide Vietnamese students and research fellows with more scholarships annually. These initiatives invest directly in our shared future.

Scientific cooperation is another area of great promise. Joint research projects, innovation partnerships, and collaboration between research institutes contribute not only to technological progress but also to addressing global challenges such as climate change, public health, and sustainable development.

What makes these exchanges particularly meaningful is their long-term impact. They foster trust, curiosity, and personal relationships that endure beyond individual projects, ensuring that Czech–Vietnamese relations remain vibrant, forward-looking, and firmly rooted in mutual understanding.

10. 10. You have been serving as Ambassador in Prague for some time now.
    How did you personally experience your arrival in the Czech Republic, and what impressed or surprised you most?

Arriving in the Czech Republic as Ambassador of Vietnam was both an exciting and deeply enriching experience for me. From the very beginning, I was pleasantly surprised by the richness of Czech culture and history, from its architectural heritage to its thriving arts and academic scene. The level of civic engagement, innovation, and openness to international collaboration left a strong impression.

And I was also struck by the hospitality and openness of the Czech people,
as well as their curiosity about Vietnam’s history, culture, and development.
It is clear that Czech–Vietnamese relations are grounded not only in formal diplomacy but also in genuine people-to-people connections, shaped over decades of shared experiences.

The vibrant presence of the Vietnamese community, which is well-integrated yet retains strong ties to its heritage, is also worth mentioning. Seeing how this community contributes to Czech society while serving as a bridge between our countries was inspiring. And it gave me a strong sense of the living, personal dimension of our bilateral relations.

On a personal level, my time in Prague has reinforced my belief in the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding, and friendship. It has been both a privilege and a joy to witness firsthand the deepening of Czech–Vietnamese ties marked by the establishment of a Strategic Partnership between our two countries during my term of duty. I am honored to be part of this endeavor,
and will continue to devote myself to making our partnership stronger across the board.

11. 11. When comparing Czech and Vietnamese culture and mentality, where do you see the biggest differences—and where do you find unexpected similarities?

To be honest, I am really not good at making camparisons! In my personal observation, the differences between Czech and Vietnamese culture and mentality can be seen in social habits, communication styles, and historical outlooks. Czech society tends to value directness, individualism, and a measured, pragmatic approach to life, reflecting a long tradition of civic responsibility and rational debate. In contrast, Vietnamese culture, influenced by a profound blend of indigenous Southeast Asian roots and intense East Asian (“orient”), emphasizes community, family ties, and relational harmony. Social interactions in Vietnam often prioritize respect, patience, and indirect communication, which can appear subtle to outsiders.

Yet despite those differences, I have also discovered pleasantly surprised similarities that form a strong foundation for mutual understanding.
Both Czechs and Vietnamese share a deep appreciation for education, culture, and personal development, as well as a commitment to resilience in the face of historical challenges. Both societies value hospitality, sincerity, and a sense of pride in national heritage.

These convergences allow for meaningful connections across cultures.
They make it easier for our peoples to collaborate, learn from one another, and build trust—whether in business, education, or cultural exchanges. Recognizing both differences and similarities is key to enriching the close bonds between our two countries and peoples.

12. Looking at your own diplomatic career: Which previous postings or experiences have shaped you the most and helped you in your current role in Prague?

Being part of the Vietnamese team responsible for UN Security Council issues during Vietnam’s first time non-permanent member of the UNSC (2018 – 2019) was truly a challenging and intense time for me. We had to engage in debates and expressed our positions on a series of sensitive issues which have the thin line between right and wrong such as between secession and national self- determination or between terrorists or freedom fighters, just to name a few. And, I think I have learned a lot from such interesting philosophical arguments.

My posting in Canberra (2017 – 2020) was also rewarding in many ways.
It helped me have a better understanding of why Australia is the world’s most successful multicultural society. “The Land Down Under” has a robust tradition as a country built upon migration that continues to this day.

My time in Czechia has been amazing thus far. It gives me an opportunity to learn more about this landlocked Central European nation known for its rich history, fairytale architecture, and, specifically, having the highest density of castles and chateaux in Europe. I am also very impressed that the country features 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

13. Diplomacy is often about building trust between people and institutions. What do you particularly value in your cooperation with Czech political leaders, institutions, and partners?

During my term of duty in Prague thus far, I have had multiple occasions to meet  with Czech political leaders, institutions, and partners. What impresses me most and of which I particularly value includes the strong sense of openness, professionalism, and mutual respect that characterizes our dialogue. This creates an atmosphere of trust that is essential for effective diplomacy.

I also greatly appreciate the Czech tradition of institutional continuity and respect for rules. Whether working with government ministries, Parliament, regional authorities, or academic and business institutions, there is a shared understanding of responsibility, transparency, and predictability. This makes cooperation not only efficient, but also reliable.

Another aspect I value deeply is the genuine interest shown by Czech partners in Vietnam’s development and perspectives. Our exchanges are marked by thoughtful listening and a willingness to understand historical context and cultural differences. This openness allows us to address both opportunities and challenges in a frank yet respectful manner.

Finally, I value the strong people-to-people dimension that complements institutional ties. Many Czech leaders and experts have personal or professional experience with Vietnam, which adds warmth and authenticity to our cooperation. These human connections reinforce mutual trust and help ensure that Czech–Vietnamese relations continue to develop in a stable, sincere, and forward-looking way.

14. Finally, looking ahead: Where do you see Czech–Vietnamese relations in ten years, and what personal contribution would you like to make to this future?

I see Czech–Vietnamese relations ten years from now will continue to develop into a more mature and comprehensive strategic partnership built on deep trust, strong economic ties, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges.

Our cooperation will certainly extend well beyond trade, encompassing innovation, green technologies, education, science, and cultural exchange, while also contributing jointly to addressing regional and global challenges.
With Vietnam’s continued development and the Czech Republic’s technological and human capital strengths, our relationship has the potential to become a model of successful cooperation between Europe and Southeast Asia.

I also foresee an even stronger role for the Vietnamese community in the Czech Republic as a natural bridge between our two societies. The younger generation, confident in both cultures, will play an increasingly visible role in business, public life, and cultural dialogue, further anchoring our relations in everyday human connections.

On a personal level, my aspiration is to contribute to this future by strengthening mutual understanding and trust. As Ambassador, I seek to encourage open dialogue, support concrete cooperation projects, and promote closer links between institutions, businesses, localities and academic communities. Equally important to me is fostering cultural and educational exchanges that bring our two peoples closer together. If, at the end of my tenure, Czech–Vietnamese relations are more dynamic, balanced, and future-oriented, I would consider my contribution both meaningful and rewarding.

There is one thing I am pretty sure of, it is that Czechia has always been and will continue to be in my heart. And I promise myself that I will come back to this beautiful and hospitable country as a tourist