Vietnam–Australia diplomacy under spotlight: As Party General Secretary and State President To Lam begins a four-day state visit to Australia, a rights-focused report urges Australian PM Anthony Albanese to raise Vietnam’s worsening crackdown on free speech and transnational repression, including convictions of journalists and activists in absentia. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership push: Multiple Vietnamese and Australian officials frame the visit as a chance to turn political trust into concrete outcomes across trade, investment, education, clean energy and security, with trade already exceeding $14bn and a large Vietnamese community and student presence. New Zealand momentum: Ahead of To Lam’s first state visit to New Zealand in his current roles, Vietnam’s deputy foreign minister says the trip aims to translate commitments into practical projects for people and businesses. Anti-corruption enforcement: In Hanoi, the National Assembly chair urged Economic Police to reinforce their core role against corruption, economic crimes and smuggling, while adapting to new risks including data and cybersecurity. Foreign affairs direction-setting: The 33rd Diplomatic Conference wrapped up in Hanoi, stressing external affairs as a crucial, regular task and a more results-oriented approach. Vietnam–Thailand parliamentary ties: Thailand’s parliamentary leader concluded a Vietnam visit marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, with both sides highlighting legislature-to-legislature cooperation as a key pillar of the partnership. Governance and ideology debate: A domestic op-ed-style debate flags tensions around “liberal education” and broader concerns about academic freedom, amid ongoing scrutiny of writers and historical narratives.