Vietnam's new president, To Lam, a former public security chief who has consolidated power within the Vietnamese Communist Party since the death of his predecessor in July, addressed the UN General Assembly this week.

During the speech, To Lam discussed the importance of multilateralism in addressing global problems such as geopolitical tensions and climate change.

"Unprecedented challenges to peace, cooperation, sustainable development and human dignity affect this generation and the next," said To Lam. "They compel us to unite, act and work together, upholding the role of international institutions, foremost among them the United Nations."

His speech marked a significant moment, as he is the first Communist Party chief of Vietnam to speak to the Assembly.

To Lam is also expected to sit down with US President Joe Biden during the General Assembly. This meeting is seen as part of a broader US strategy to improve diplomatic relations with countries in Southeast Asia as a counterbalance to China's growing influence........

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