Bamboo diplomacy

Bamboo diplomacy is used to describe Vietnam’s approach to diplomacy. Bamboo plays an important role in the daily lives of Vietnamese people, from food to tools and homes. In Vietnam, bamboo symbolises strong root, sturdy stem, and flexible branches, combining strength and flexibility.

Vietnam’s bamboo diplomacy is based on principles of independence, resilience, and national interest. The idea of bamboo diplomacy was first coined in 2016 by the leader of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Nguyen Phu Trong. Bamboo diplomacy has philosophical and practical aspects. Philosophically, bamboo diplomacy aims to establish harmony between national and international values and priorities. Practically, it results in active and agile diplomacy of maintaining diplomatic relations with 190 UN members and participation in 70 international organisations and forums.