General Secretary To Lam of the Communist Party of Vietnam made his entrance at Halim Perdanakusuma military airport in Jakarta on March 9, 2025, at 1:20 PM local time, marking the beginning of his first state visit to Indonesia since August 2017. Accompanied by his wife, Ngo Phuong Ly, and a high-ranking delegation, this visit is steeped in historical significance.
The warm welcome was a display of respect from the Indonesian government, with ceremonial artillery rounds fired to honor the General Secretary’s arrival. Indonesia's Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, and Indonesian Ambassador to Vietnam Denny Abdi were prominently present to extend their greetings. Similarly, Vietnam’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Ta Van Thong, and the Ambassador/Head of the Permanent Representative Delegation of Vietnam to ASEAN, Ton Thi Ngoc Huong, represented Vietnam's interests during the welcoming ceremony.
This marks the first official visit by the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam to Indonesia—a reaffirmation of the diplomatic ties established 70 years ago. Indeed, the timing of the visit aligns precisely with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Indonesia, which were first formed in 1955, making Indonesia the first Southeast Asian country to engage with Vietnam diplomatically.
With 70 years of diplomatic history behind them, the relationship has blossomed, particularly since the establishment of the strategic partnership between the two nations in 2013. This partnership has facilitated more comprehensive and extensive cooperation, characterized by frequent high-level exchanges and bilateral engagements on various fronts.
During the ceremonial proceedings at the airport, General Secretary To Lam expressed appreciation for the warm reception. "This visit marks the historical relationship and the importance of bilateral cooperation over these years," emphasized the on-site official spokesperson. Such sentiments were echoed throughout the gathering, reflecting the strong motivations behind this renewed diplomatic effort.
The significance of this visit also extends to the ASEAN framework, as it coincides neatly with the 30th anniversary of Vietnam's accession to the regional organization. Joining ASEAN back in 1995, Vietnam's contributions have been aligned with significant developments within the organization, aiming to build a durable ASEAN community characterized by unity and resilience.
The visit will not only involve high-level talks and discussions about bilateral relations but is also expected to touch on collaborative initiatives to address regional challenges and strengthen community ties among ASEAN members. This aspect highlights Vietnam's commitment to fostering a cohesive and accommodating ASEAN community.
Looking forward, the outcomes of discussions between Secretary To Lam and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto are anticipated to provide clarity on shared avenues of cooperation. Important areas include maritime security, trade expansion, and tackling shared environmental challenges, which are increasingly relevant for both nations as they navigate their roles within the ASEAN framework.
The ceremonial pageantry accompanying this state visit lays the groundwork for more than just diplomatic niceties. It symbolizes the enduring friendship between Vietnam and Indonesia, emphasizing mutual respect and the desire for continued cooperation and collaboration within the broader Asian region.
Throughout the duration of the visit, which lasts until March 11, various events commemorative of these historical ties will take place, reflecting on the narrative of trust built over the years. From bilateral meetings to public engagements, each event serves as both homage to the past and anticipation for future endeavors.
This state visit is anticipated to reinforce mutual ties and lead to enhanced cooperation not only between Indonesia and Vietnam but also within the broader ASEAN community, setting the stage for joint efforts to address regional concerns effectively.
With these developments and exchanges marked on the diplomatic calendar, General Secretary To Lam's visit encapsulates the urgent and dynamic spirit of Southeast Asian diplomacy at this pivotal time.