Ottawa, October 7, 2025 — The 5th Annual Viet Tan Luncheon Reception at Canadian Parliament Hill brought together policymakers, diplomats, and advocates to advance dialogue
I speak to you today not only as a policy observer, but as someone who deeply cares about the future of my country. Vietnam is home to over 100 million people — hardworking, resilient, and full of potential. Yet we live under a system where one party has controlled every aspect of our political and social life for more than five decades.
As Canada pursues this long-term, multi-faceted strategy, it will undoubtedly prioritize certain relationships. Japan, South Korea and Australia certainly. These are all democracies and important economies. But perhaps Vietnam will be considered a strategic partner as well. The question is how Canada can engage Vietnam while furthering its democratic values?
On October 27, 2022, Viet Tan hosted a reception at the Canadian Parliament co-chaired by the Honorable Judy Srgo. The theme of the event was how Canada could help advance peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific by supporting human rights and democratic change in Vietnam.
