Vietnam publishes 2019 Defence White Paper, with eye on boosting self-sufficiency

Vietnam published on 25 November its Defence White Paper 2019, which outlines the country’s commitment to self-sufficiency and specifically its pledge towards the ‘Three No’ policy that was highlighted in previous White Papers.

The White Paper is published in Vietnamese and English but is only currently available in hard copy. An online version is expected to be published soon.

Deputy Defence Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh said in comments published in a Ministry of National Defence (MND) press release that the new White Paper outlines Vietnam’s commitment to self-sufficiency and specifically its pledge towards the ‘Three No’ policy that was highlighted in previous White Papers.

Vietnam’s Defence White Paper 2019 continues the country’s commitment to self-sufficiency, exemplified through its growing capability to sustain and modernise assets including its Sukhoi Su-30 fighters (pictured). (Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Production Association)

Deputy Defence Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh said in comments published in a Ministry of National Defence (MND) press release that the White Paper “confirms the basic views” that Vietnam will not join military alliances with another country, will not align with one country against another, and will not allow foreign military bases on Vietnamese soil. Vinh also indicated the inclusion in the 2019 White Paper of a ‘fourth no’: that Vietnam will not use force or threaten to use force in international relations.

The MND added that the White Paper, which is the country’s fourth since the initial document was published in 1998, also includes three parts: strategic context; framework for defence policy; and the development of the Vietnam People’s Armed Forces. The MND provided no further details about the policy document.