Meeting with Vietnamese students studying at Aalto University and other educational and research institutions in Finland, the Party chief affirmed that the Party and State highly value the role of overseas students. He described them as pioneers in knowledge exchange, cultural diplomacy, and in bringing global values and innovation back to serve the nation.

He encouraged the students to nurture ambition, a passion for discovery, and a spirit of initiative and creativity.

“Learning is not just about academic knowledge but also about developing independent thinking, entrepreneurial spirit, and staying at the forefront of science and technology,” he said.

Quoting late President Ho Chi Minh’s advice that “Learning must go hand in hand with practice,” the Party General Secretary urged students to focus on the practical application of their knowledge, bridging the gap between theory and real-world impact. He emphasised that each academic or research success overseas is also a way to affirm the intelligence, determination, and image of the Vietnamese people.

Reviewing Vietnam - Finland relations, the leader said both countries share a historically significant and close-knit relationship. Finland was one of the pioneering countries in providing development aid to help Vietnam overcome the aftermath of war. Many Finnish-supported projects, ranging from clean water and telecommunications to renewable energy and sustainable forest management, have become enduring symbols of the two countries’ friendship.

Party General Secretary Lam affirmed that over the past five decades, bilateral cooperation has deepened across multiple sectors. Today, the relationship has been elevated to a Strategic Partnership, reflecting the growing needs of both sides and contributing positively to peace, cooperation, and development in the region and beyond.

Looking ahead, both countries will prioritise practical and forward-looking areas of collaboration, especially in education and training, science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation. Vietnam places high expectations on the younger generation, particularly students, to continue writing a successful new chapter in Vietnam–Finland relations.

He encouraged students to remain proud of their roots and serve as bridges for strengthening Vietnam’s ties with international partners. He noted that the Party and State are developing preferential policies to attract and welcome talented individuals back to contribute to the country or to do so from abroad through academic and research cooperation.

The Party leader specifically called for stronger partnerships between Finnish institutions such as Aalto University and Vietnamese universities and research institutes to promote deeper academic collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Party General Secretary To Lam was on an official visit to the Finland at the invitation of Finnish President Alexander Stubb.

Vietnam, Finland elevate ties to strategic partnership, pledge closer cooperation

VOV.VN - Vietnam and Finland have officially upgraded their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, pledging closer cooperation in circular economy, green transition, digital transformation, sustainable maritime development, and environmental and climate change initiatives, while reinforcing mutual support on regional and global issues.