End of An Era: Vietnam's Nguyễn Phú Trọng Passes Away

Nguyễn Phú Trọng, a Marxist-Leninist who served as Vietnam’s leader for over a decade, has died at 80. Known for his ‘bamboo diplomacy’ balancing ties with China and the U.S., Trọng also led a significant anti-corruption campaign. He held influential roles, including Communist Party general secretary and president.

Nguyễn Phú Trọng, the Marxist-Leninist who led Vietnam for over a decade with rapid economic growth and a delicate balance in foreign relations through his 'bamboo diplomacy', has passed away at 80.

Amid his frail health, Trọng's party chief duties transitioned to President Tô Lâm on Thursday. The ruling Communist Party announced on Friday that he died 'due to old age and serious illness.' Trọng, the Communist Party's general secretary from 2011 and Vietnam's president from 2018 to 2020, was instrumental in wielding power in the one-party state.

Though perceived as a moderate, Trọng's anti-corruption drive, dubbed the 'blazing furnace', led to numerous high-profile arrests and stirred economic concern. His 'more friends, fewer foes' foreign policy bolstered ties with multiple global powers, including recent diplomatic elevations with the United States and China. Despite his efforts, issues like a major financial fraud in late 2022 challenged his tenure, impacting foreign investor confidence. Nonetheless, Vietnam thrived under his leadership, recording significant GDP growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)