UNDP Resident Representative hails Vietnam as an emerging economic powerhouse

DNHN - Millions of people have been lifted out of poverty, hunger has been eliminated, and the economy has maintained consistent growth rates of over 6 per cent, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam Ramla Khalidi remarks.

In a recent interview with the Vietnam Government Portal, Ms. Ramla Khalidi, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, praised Vietnam’s development journey over the past four decades—particularly since the country embarked on the Doi Moi (Renewal) reforms in 1986.

Ms. Khalidi described Vietnam as an emerging economic powerhouse, attributing this transformation to the country’s consistent commitment to inclusive growth and reform.

“Millions of people have been lifted out of poverty, hunger has been eliminated, and the economy has sustained growth rates above 6%,” she noted. Vietnam’s shift toward an export-oriented economy, she emphasized, has been a major engine of progress—expanding opportunities and accelerating national development.

One of the most significant achievements, she pointed out, is Vietnam’s Human Development Index (HDI) increasing by 50% since Doi Moi. “This is clear evidence of a development model that places people at the center,” she remarked.

Looking forward, Ms. Khalidi affirmed that Vietnam is now pursuing a new generation of ambitious reforms focused on green, resilient, and inclusive growth, and that UNDP remains firmly committed to supporting this national vision.

Regarding Vietnam’s international role, Ms. Khalidi underscored the country’s increasing visibility and leadership in multilateral forums, both regionally and globally.

She highlighted Vietnam’s strong commitment to multilateralism, reflected in its active participation in the UN system, the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and its engagement in UN bodies such as the Human Rights Council.

Vietnam has also demonstrated global responsibility by ratifying key international agreements, including the Paris Agreement on climate change, and contributing personnel—including female peacekeepers—to challenging UN peacekeeping missions.

Within ASEAN, Ms. Khalidi noted, Vietnam continues to play a leading role in upholding the principles of regional cooperation and multilateral diplomacy.

Looking ahead, Ms. Khalidi outlined three key areas where UNDP will focus its support, in line with Vietnam’s own development priorities:

Green and Resilient Development: Supporting Vietnam’s energy transition, climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and promotion of the circular economy.

Private Sector Empowerment: Assisting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in better integrating into global markets and supply chains.

Inclusive Governance: Enhancing local governance, strengthening the connection between citizen voices and government services, expanding access to justice, and advancing human rights and social inclusion—particularly for people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and women in politics.

On the occasion of Vietnam’s 80th National Day, Ms. Khalidi offered her heartfelt congratulations to the Vietnamese people. She highlighted the symbolic resonance of 1945—the year both the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the United Nations were founded—underscoring the shared values of dignity, equality, solidarity, and human rights.

"I wish the people of Vietnam good health, happiness, and continued success," she said, expressing her joy in participating in this historic celebration.

Concluding her message, she reflected warmly on her time in Vietnam:

“I feel almost Vietnamese myself. It’s incredibly moving to witness the patriotism that fills the streets, the colors, the energy, and the pride. I truly feel privileged and honored to serve in a country like Vietnam.”

Anh Nguyen