Key aspects of Vietnam:

• Geography: Vietnam's diverse geography includes the mountainous Annamese Cordillera, fertile river deltas (Red River in the north, Mekong River in the south), and a long coastal plain. This landscape has significantly influenced its historical development and agricultural practices, particularly wet rice farming.
• History: Vietnam boasts a long and rich history, marked by millennia of independence punctuated by periods of foreign domination, most notably from China. The 20th century was defined by prolonged warfare, including resistance against French colonial rule (leading to the First Indochina War and French defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954) and the Vietnam War (1955-1975). This latter conflict pitted the communist North Vietnam (supported by the Soviet Union and China) against South Vietnam (supported by the United States). The war ended with the victory of the North and the reunification of the country under communist rule in 1975.
• Politics and Government: Vietnam is a unitary Marxist–Leninist one-party socialist republic, with the Communist Party of Vietnam holding political power.
• Economy: After years of post-war economic struggles, Vietnam embarked on economic reforms (Đổi Mới) in 1986. This has transformed it into one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economies. While still a developing nation, it has become a major global exporter of goods, particularly textiles, electronics, and agricultural products like rice. Key drivers of its growth include foreign direct investment, expanding manufacturing, and a young, dynamic workforce.
• Culture and Society: Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in its history, strongly influenced by Chinese traditions (Confucianism, Buddhism) but also retaining unique indigenous elements. The official language is Vietnamese. Despite its rapid economic development, challenges remain, including issues of corruption and human rights.
• International Relations: Vietnam has increasingly integrated into the global economy and international community. It normalized diplomatic relations with the United States in 1995 and became a member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) in the same year, and the World Trade Organization in 2007. It actively seeks to balance relationships with various global powers.