15-1-2024 (HANOI) Nguyen Phu Trong, the head of Vietnam’s Communist Party, made a public appearance on Monday (Jan 15) as concerns grew over his health. This marks his first public appearance since December 26, and his absence had raised concerns among diplomats and officials who were uncertain about his well-being.
In recent weeks, Trong had missed scheduled meetings with visiting leaders, including Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Laos’ Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. The absences fueled speculation about the 79-year-old leader’s health, prompting a need for clarification.
Nguyen Phu Trong has been leading the ruling Communist Party since 2011, holding the highest position in Vietnam’s one-party political system. His presence at the National Assembly session is significant, as the gathering aims to discuss crucial topics such as banking and land reforms.
Trong’s participation in the session serves to address the concerns surrounding his health and reaffirm his active involvement in the country’s political affairs.