Because behind the seemingly technical numbers is a persistent journey to improve the national position, from foreign affairs to immigration policies, from economic internal strength to the image of Vietnamese citizens in the eyes of international friends.
Henley & Partners - a prestigious global organization, not only assesses the number of countries exempting visas, e-visas or border visas for citizens of one country, but also reflects the world's level of trust in the institutions and citizens of that country.
With 51 countries and territories currently opening to Vietnamese passports, the latest ranking is an indicator that Vietnam is gradually integrating more deeply in terms of politics, economy and trust.
It is worth mentioning that this is the strongest increase in Vietnamese passports in nearly 20 years, since reaching the highest position of 78th in 2006 and 2007.
The improvement in ranking as it is now reflects many synchronous efforts from bilateral negotiations, improving the national image, to the implementation of new model passports, promoting digital transformation in public administration and creating favorable conditions for Vietnamese citizens to travel and work abroad.
A widely accepted passport in the world not only helps people travel conveniently, but also reflects a stable economy, clear diplomatic policies and especially the civilized behavior of citizens of that country abroad.
From this perspective, each citizen who brings a Vietnamese passport to the world is a "cultural ambassador", contributing to the collective's reputation.
However, compared to the region, Vietnam's passport ranking still has a lot of room for improvement. Compared to countries such as Malaysia currently in 11th place or Singapore continuing to hold the top spot with 193 visa-free or e-visa-free destinations, Vietnam is only at an average level.
This requires continuing to promote administrative reform, improve diplomatic capacity, expand bilateral relations and, no less importantly, continuing to build the image of a civilized Vietnamese citizen, respect international law, and responsibility when going abroad.
A passport is not only a passport, it is a mirror reflecting the national status, the quality of citizens and the openness of the economy.
The increase in Vietnamese passports is a sign that the world's trust in Vietnam is growing. However, to maintain this increase and go further, it will require the continuous efforts of the entire state apparatus and each citizen carrying a Vietnamese passport to the world.
It is a long journey, but completely feasible, if every step from responsible people and every citizen coming here carries responsibility and the desire to reach far.
