Vietnam seen as a valuable BRICS partner

Vietnam is expected to make practical contributions to BRICS as a partner country, with its participation at this weekend’s summit in India also set to strengthen ties with New Delhi.

First summit for the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng is attending the 18th BRICS Summit in India on September 12 and 13. It is his first appearance at a BRICS summit and Vietnam’s second as a partner country.

India, which holds the 2026 chairmanship, has placed resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainable development at the centre of its agenda.

A bridge to Southeast Asia

An Indian expert said Vietnam can help deepen links between BRICS and Southeast Asia. Vietnam’s experience in economic development, trade, manufacturing and regional cooperation could offer useful perspectives to the expanded grouping.

BRICS has grown from its original five members into an 11-nation bloc that represents a large share of the world’s population, energy resources and emerging-market economies.

Wider India-Vietnam opportunities

Vietnam’s summit role comes after a state visit by Vietnamese leader Tô Lâm to India earlier this year. Both countries are seeking to build on their comprehensive strategic partnership through trade, technology, development and Indo-Pacific cooperation.

Partner-country status does not make Vietnam a full BRICS member, but it gives Hanoi a seat in selected discussions and a wider platform for dialogue.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

Closer engagement with BRICS could open further opportunities for investment, trade and technology cooperation. For foreign businesses in Vietnam, the main significance will be whether summit discussions lead to practical projects or easier links with BRICS markets.

September 12 2026