Formerly a prominent young figure actively involved in international youth forums, Dr. Ngo Di Lan continues to contribute through his research in the field of international relations and diplomacy . The following insights from Dr. Ngo Di Lan, shared with readers of the Hanoi Press and Broadcasting Agency, offer practical suggestions on culture and sustainable national development from his professional perspective.
Tell a compelling, engaging story about the capital city and the country.
- Dr. Ngo Di Lan, recent global events have once again confirmed the "uncertainty" inherent in the global political landscape. This is also a topic discussed in your book, "The Power Game: The Past, Present, and Future of World Order."
- Yes! As you can see, uncertainty has become a constant in today's strategic environment. Many countries, especially small and medium-sized ones, are struggling to adapt in order to survive and thrive in such an increasingly uncertain world . This is also the final chapter in the eight chapters of the book you mentioned. In this chapter, I also share five key lessons for adapting to the world's changes and uncertainties. The most important of these is building unique "strategic value." Next is the ability to control information and shape one's own narrative…
- I recall you also dedicated a chapter to "National Identity and the Power of Storytelling." This is a clear message about the inherent strength of culture in relation to national power.
- I emphasized this in a section titled "The Art of Storytelling of Nations." Indeed, stories of identity are not just distant historical legacies; they continue to shape how nations behave internationally, from how they define national interests to how they choose the tools to pursue those interests. The power of the American Dream lies in its ability to create an imagined community that transcends geographical and racial boundaries. The story of South Korea, on the other hand, is a unique autobiography of rising from the ashes and an unceasing desire to thrive. The resounding success of the Land of the Morning Calm lies in its ability to tell this story to the world in a completely new way through Hallyu – the Korean cultural wave. From television dramas to music groups like BTS, with their messages of love and inner strength in overcoming adversity, they have created a captivating image (at least for a large segment of young people) of a society that is both modern and preserves traditional values.
- Born in Hanoi, having spent your childhood and education in a multicultural environment, and then becoming a researcher in international relations, what are your thoughts on the identity and story that Vietnam can tell to friends around the world?
- We have truly proud historical chapters, milestones deeply etched in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, and values powerful enough to move international friends. But to be honest, even now we are still pondering a "brand" narrative strong enough to shape our identity, unify our spirit, and connect the entire flow of history. How closely are figures like Tran Nhan Tong, Ngo Quyen, and the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake in ancient history connected to our national goals for 2030, 2045, and beyond? That is, a message that is both consistent, coherent, easy to visualize, and easily imprinted in the minds not only of Vietnamese people but also of friends around the world. Of course, it must be a story built on real, natural materials, clearly reflecting our national identity.
Clearly, telling a compelling and engaging story about the capital and the country is a major issue, a crucial question for the sustainable development of Hanoi and the entire nation. From personal experience and a subjective perspective, I have an idea that I also shared in a commentary not long ago. In the distant future, perhaps what we can offer the world is the image of a Vietnam where people and technology can "coexist peacefully." Many foreigners now come to Vietnam to experience and seek balance in life. Vietnam is a place where they can both explore a simple, rustic life and quickly access modern technological conveniences. Not many places offer such a diverse environment and so many choices.
The country is in a very youthful spirit.
- From the perspective of a young person from the 90s generation, what do you think are the fundamental advantages and challenges for young people in the current context?
- A major advantage is that the country is in a very youthful phase, as clearly demonstrated by the 2030 and 2045 goals. Vietnam is also deeply integrated into the global economy; Vietnamese people don't have to wait much longer than Americans to buy the latest iPhone. The world is becoming flatter and more interconnected. Today's young people have a mindset that quickly and effectively aligns with universal global values. However, precisely because they were born, raised, and live with technology and social media, young people today may also be more easily led astray.
- You had a "vibrant youth" as the founder and director of many models and forums for young people. How have your goals and contributions to the country changed since then, and what advice would you like to share with young people today?
- I went abroad before I was three years old, returned to Vietnam to study from grade 1 to grade 8, and then continued to study in various countries with my family until returning to Vietnam when the Covid-19 pandemic broke out. It was during that period of lockdown that I had the opportunity to reflect on many things and look back on my journey. Fortunately, throughout my years away from home, I never lost my connection with Vietnam. In one way or another, I always maintained this connection, for example, through childhood friends, on the familiar Ham Long street… Therefore, when I returned to work in Vietnam, I almost didn't feel any "reverse culture shock." Of course, there were still concerns, anxieties, things I liked and disliked. I've always thought that the bond with my country is something intangible yet powerful, and it inspires a sense of obligation to those around me, a responsibility to contribute to building a better life for my homeland, starting with specific, small things.
I don't presume to offer advice, but experience has taught me that young people will unleash their greatest strengths when they are constantly reflecting on what's happening around them. They think globally but always grounded in reality, and all their innovations are aimed at serving the community.
- So, that means the philosophy of "thinking globally and acting locally"?
- That's right! I'm very interested in startups, and I have many friends working in the startup field. But even experienced people have to admit that most projects tend to start from the question "what do I have?" instead of "what does society need?" and "how can I solve that problem?".
Furthermore, we need to dare to think big. Caring for the Vietnamese people doesn't mean only solving their problems. A good solution for the entire Southeast Asian region, in one way or another, will also contribute to resolving the pressing issues facing the Vietnamese people themselves.
- Do you have any new research plans or startup projects in the works?
- 2026 will likely be a pivotal year for me. I have a book coming out soon on the topic of "Grand Strategy and the Art of Protecting National Interests."
My colleagues and I also founded Applied Strategic Foresight (ASF), perhaps Vietnam's first specialized geopolitical forecasting consulting firm. ASF focuses on building structured and methodologically proven forecasts to support decision-makers in better assessing possible future scenarios.
Thank you sincerely for sharing, and I wish your projects will contribute even more to the community!
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/tien-si-ngo-di-lan-moi-sang-tao-deu-huong-toi-phuc-vu-cong-dong-741911.html
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