Vietnamese President To Lam was appointed as the general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, succeeding the late Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away two weeks ago.
Mr. Lam assumed the role of party chief on July 18, just a day before Trong’s demise due to his failing health.
Officials announced that party delegates unanimously approved Mr. Lam’s selection during a press conference.
In his address to the delegates, he pledged to carry forward Trong’s legacy, maintain the country’s foreign policy, concentrate on achieving its socio-economic development objectives, and vigorously continue Vietnam’s anti-corruption drive.
Although Vietnam does not have an official paramount leader, the head of the party holds a significant position, especially after Trong enhanced the powers of the role during his 13-year tenure.
Mr. Lam, a seasoned security officer, had long been viewed as a candidate for the party chief position, with experts considering the presidency a stepping stone to the top post.
He was elected as president in May after leading a high-profile campaign against corruption during his tenure as the police minister. Mr. Lam succeeded Vo Van Thuong, who resigned from the position after approximately a year following allegations of misconduct.
