The 16th National Assembly of Vietnam unanimously approved To Lam's candidacy for the presidency. All 495 members present voted in favor of the resolution, ensuring 100% support for the candidate.

A unique feature of this appointment is the combination of positions: To Lam is also the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. This is only the second time in the country's history that the highest positions in the state have been combined in this way.

To Lam is an experienced statesman and a doctor of law. His career is inextricably linked to the Ministry of Public Security, where he rose from deputy minister to head of the agency (2016–2024) with the rank of general. The leader's political biography has developed rapidly in recent years:

• In May 2024, he was elected president for the first time to serve out the remainder of the previous term.

• In August 2024, the Central Committee elected him General Secretary of the Party.

• In April 2026, the National Assembly formally vested him with the powers of the president for a new five-year term.

Following the announcement of the results, To Lam took the oath of office and delivered his inauguration speech. The reelection of this experienced politician signals the continuation of the course toward stability and continuity in Vietnam's domestic and foreign policy.

For the international community and its partners, this decision confirms the predictability of the country's political system, which is important for long-term economic investment and diplomatic cooperation in the Southeast Asian region.

ORIENT