Buenos Aires (VNA) – Nearly four decades after launching its Doi Moi (Renewal) process, Vietnam has made remarkable progress in social welfare, human rights and international integration, according to Professor Ezequiel Ramoneda, Coordinator of the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies (CESEA) at the Institute of International Relations of the National University of La Plata of Argentina.

In an interview with Vietnam News Agency correspondents on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s August Revolution (August 19, 1945 – 2025) and National Day (September 2), Ramoneda highlighted the country’s all-rounded achievements despite the heavy legacy of war.

He noted that the Southeast Asian nation has undergone profound political, economic and social transformation, while strengthening its role in the international system. The overarching goal throughout this process has been to improve people’s lives, enhance social welfare and safeguard fundamental rights, while rebuilding the nation after years of devastation.

One of the most notable results is that per capita income has increased tenfold over the past four decades, with wealth more evenly distributed. The health care system has been upgraded, mortality rates have fallen, birth rates have remained stable, and social services have expanded. Vietnam’s human development index has continued to improve, giving people greater access to education and resources of higher quality.

The Argentine scholar described such achievements in less than four decades as remarkable, attributing them to the Party’s bold reforms and the strong support of the people. This, he said, demonstrates Vietnam’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities and the sound orientation of its development policies.

He noted a key milestone is Vietnam becoming one of the first countries to meet five of the eight United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), including poverty reduction, improvements in health care and education, environmental protection, gender equality and women’s rights.

He assessed that the early fulfillment of these goals reflects its commitment not only to domestic development but also to international responsibilities. It underscores Vietnam’s open foreign policy, spirit of multilateral cooperation, and determination to work with other nations in addressing global challenges, from climate change to transboundary issues. This has consolidated its reputation as a reliable partner, ready to negotiate, cooperate and harmonise national interests with those of the international community.

However, Ramoneda also pointed out that Vietnam still faces major challenges. Issues such as poverty, climate change and gender inequality remain pressing, while rising living standards and higher costs may risk widening the wealth gap unless accompanied by fair and effective redistribution policies.

As Vice Chairman of the Argentina-Vietnam Culture Institute (ICAV), he stressed that Vietnam has proven its adaptability and creativity in development, along with its commitment to humanitarian and progressive values. If it maintains the reform spirit, makes good use of cooperation opportunities and advances innovation, the country is well-positioned to achieve stronger and more sustainable development goals in decades to come./.