Abstract

In the period 1986-1996, the Communist Party of Vietnam led the national construction and renewal process under extremely difficult socio-economic conditions and severe crisis, while the collapse of real socialism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe profoundly changed the global landscape. Utilizing historical, logical, document analysis, and comparative methods, this article clarifies the Party's intellect in properly identifying the major trends of the times, renewing development thinking, releasing domestic production forces, and selectively absorbing international resources. Simultaneously, the article analyzes the Party's strong political fortitude in steadfastly pursuing the goal of national independence associated with socialism, and maintaining independence and self-reliance in expanding foreign relations and proactive integration. This strategic fortitude was demonstrated through historic milestones such as the normalization of relations with China and the United States, and joining ASEAN to break the international embargo and siege. These vivid practical realities affirm the deep historical value and contemporary significance of the lesson of combining national strength with the strength of the times. It demonstrates that internal strength plays the decisive role, while external strength is an important resource for the country's development in the current renewal process.

Keywords: Communist Party of Vietnam; intellect and political fortitude; national strength; renewal 1986- 1996; strength of the times.