As of September 2024, Vietnam (officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam) maintains diplomatic relationships with 191 UN member states, State of Palestine and Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.[1]
Since the end of the Vietnam War and the unification of Vietnam, Vietnam's foreign policy has reflected a tension between two choices: "to reject the Western-led world order and oppose Western influence, or to accept the Western-led world order and adapt Western influence."[2] Over time, Vietnam has become more engaged in the international community.[2] Vietnam has shifted from a fierce opponent of the United States to a discreet ally of the United States.[2] Vietnam has for decades consistently sought to deny Chinese regional dominance.[2]