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Vietnam's To Lam Warns of Three Global Crises, Sets Out Solutions in Shangri-La Dialogue Keynote Address
He said 44 countries are represented as he urged international law, transparency and restraint to counter rising geopolitical tensions.
On Friday, Vietnamese President and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam delivered the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, warning that global instability stems from three foundational crises: international order, development models, and strategic trust.
Lam noted these crises converge most clearly in the Asia-Pacific, a region defined by vital maritime routes, urging major powers to pursue "responsible commitment" rather than coercion or unilateral imposition.
Emphasizing Vietnam's "diplomacy offensive," Lam reaffirmed the nation's commitment to self-reliance, stating it will not join military alliances or allow foreign troops while welcoming transparent engagement from major powers.
Warning that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence could "compress decision-making timelines and increase the risk of miscalculation," Lam cautioned against strategic distrust and urged nations to abide by international law.
The three-day defense forum continues through Sunday, featuring U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, while China's notably low-key delegation—missing Defense Minister Dong Jun for the second year—highlights ongoing diplomatic complexities.