Huong Le Thu

International relations expert, policy advisor

Deputy Director of Asia Program, International Crisis Group.

“There's a newfound enthusiasm on both sides, a new chapter where the two countries can actually do more things together. There is enthusiasm as well as appetite to bring more to the relationship”.

Dr. Huong Le Thu was born in post war Vietnam, then moved with her family to Europe, where she gained an MA in international studies from Jagiellonian University in Poland. She holds a PhD from the National Chengchi University in Taiwan and speaks five languages. Fascinated by international relations, she sees the impact of global politics on everyday life. “I’ve obviously seen the journey of Vietnam from a very isolated country to becoming quite active and very much integrated not only to regional but also global affairs” - she said.

In her discussions about the relationship between Vietnam and Australia she highlights the strong sense of friendship between the peoples of both countries as well as decision-makers and policy-makers “that really facilitates the deepening and upgrading of bilateral relations”. The presence of Vietnamese alumni who studied in Australia and the people with Vietnamese diaspora in Australia further strengthens the bond between the two societies.

“From a geopolitical point of view, it seems that Australia and Vietnam have rediscovered each other, especially in the wake of changing geopolitical dynamics. Australia certainly is interested in doing more with Vietnam, from trade to political and security dialogue. Vietnam is as well”.

She sees numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and education. “The relationship is very good and on a very positive trajectory. But there are even more opportunities to further deepen and strengthen the relationship”.

Looking ahead, Dr. Le Thu envisions a long-term partnership. “Vietnam and Australia are not only friends, but partners” - she said. In sectors such as cybersecurity, digitalisation, e-commerce, renewable energy, critical infrastructure, and even education, she sees the relationship evolving into a true partnership where both countries have something to offer. “And that's the most sustainable way of securing our relationship” – she said.

However, Dr. Le Thu also acknowledges that geopolitical tensions can pose challenges to bilateral relations. The choices and decisions made by both may influence their security and foreign policies, potentially introducing divergence in their views. Nonetheless, Dr. Le Thu believes that the degree of like-mindedness between Australia and Vietnam, coupled with their shared interests and aspirations, can prevail over potential challenges and maintain the positive trajectory of the bilateral relationship.