Vietnam will hold a state funeral next week for Nguyen Phu Trong, the leader of its ruling Communist Party who died on Friday. The government announced two days of national mourning on July 25-26, with the state funeral taking place on the second day. During this period, public entertainment will be suspended, and flags at offices and other public places will fly at half-mast.
Trong, who held Vietnam’s most powerful position for 13 years, passed away at the age of 80. During his leadership, Vietnam experienced rapid economic growth, a sustained anti-corruption campaign, and a pragmatic foreign policy. His duties have been temporarily assigned to President To Lam, a rising star within the party who could solidify his power if he retains both roles.
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The government statement described Trong’s death as a significant loss for the party, the state, and the Vietnamese people. It highlighted his “great and especially outstanding contributions” to the country’s revolutionary cause. Trong’s leadership saw a strengthening of ties with the United States, reflecting his pragmatic approach to foreign policy.
Foreign leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have expressed condolences to the people of Vietnam and Trong’s family.