Why Vietnam’s Moment Is Happening Now: Ton Nu Thi Ninh

Madame Tôn Nữ Thị Ninh is one of Vietnam’s most respected diplomats, intellectuals, and public thinkers. Over decades, she represented Vietnam on the global stage and played an important role in shaping the country’s diplomatic voice during its modern era. In this conversation, we talk about her extraordinary life journey, from growing up between Vietnam and France, to returning during wartime, entering diplomacy, and witnessing Vietnam’s transformation firsthand. We also discuss Vietnam’s identity, the overseas Vietnamese community, and why she believes the country’s next chapter is full of opportunity. This episode is essential listening for anyone trying to understand Vietnam beyond headlines, especially overseas Vietnamese, founders, investors, and leaders thinking about Vietnam’s future. - 00:30 Introduction to Madame Ninh 03:19 Growing up in Huế and moving to Paris 09:10 Returning to Vietnam as a teenager 15:35 Education and studying in France 27:14 Anti-war activism in Paris 29:40 Returning to Saigon during wartime 34:42 Working secretly in Saigon 36:59 Reflections on reconciliation after war 45:25 Vietnam’s national identity and unity 50:19 Becoming a diplomat 54:51 Why Hanoi recruited her 56:58 Vietnam’s diplomatic rise 1:03:36 What makes Vietnam unique 1:06:13 Advice for overseas Vietnamese 1:11:08 Why the time to act is now 1:19:19 Her hopes for Vietnam’s future - Join OV: https://joinov.com