Vietnam's President Links National Development to Kindness and Social Trust

Vietnamese President and General Secretary To Lam on Monday lauded the value of kindness and ethical conduct, urging citizens to embrace these virtues as essential for national development. Speaking at a gathering of exemplary individuals from Vietnam Television's "Kindness Program," Lam highlighted the importance of compassion and prioritizing collective interests over personal gain.

Lam stressed that while Vietnam pursues new economic and technological advancements, it must not neglect its cultural and ethical foundations. He stated that true development means creating a society that is safer, more compassionate, fairer, and fosters trust and responsibility. "When what is right is protected, what is good is encouraged, the vulnerable are not left behind, and those who dare to do good do not feel alone, social trust is consolidated," he said.

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When what is right is protected, what is good is encouraged, the vulnerable are not left behind, and those who dare to do good do not feel alone, social trust is consolidated.

He defined kindness not merely as a personal virtue but as a form of social capital and cultural strength vital for a civilized nation. A kind person, Lam explained, is responsible, respects the law and human dignity, and maintains integrity even in difficult times. He called for a society where everyone strives to be kind, from individuals and families to the entire community.

The General Secretary also outlined expectations for different roles: a kind official is dedicated to the people and avoids abusing power; a kind entrepreneur operates ethically and responsibly; a kind educator nurtures character and aspiration; a kind doctor practices with compassion; a kind young person contributes with ideals; and a kind citizen shares with the community and upholds what is right.

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Kindness is not only a personal moral quality. Kindness is also social capital, cultural strength, a part of the foundation of a civilized nation.