14th National Party Congress officially opens in Hanoi today

As customary, the opening session began with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by the statement of purpose and the introduction of delegates. The Presidium delivered opening remarks, presented key reports, and chaired initial discussions among delegates.

Four major documents are being presented to the congress: the Political Report; a report reviewing theoretical and practical issues after 40 years of reform; a report on 15 years of implementing the Party Charter; and a review of the leadership and direction of the 13th Central Committee.

The congress is scheduled to run from Jan. 19 to 25. During this period, delegates will deliberate on major orientations for national development, Party building, and the political system, as well as elect the new Party Central Committee.

On Monday morning, the congress held its preparatory session at the same venue. Prior to the session, delegates visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and laid wreaths and offered incense at the Bac Son Monument to fallen heroes and martyrs.

Vietnam's leaders attend the preparatory session of the 14th National Party Congress in Hanoi on Jan. 19, 2026. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

At the opening of the preparatory session, the congress observed a minute of silence in memory of late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and members of the 13th Central Committee who passed away during the previous term.

Delegates unanimously approved the program of the preparatory session, the congress’s rules of procedure, working agenda, and election regulations. They also elected a Presidium comprising 16 Politburo members, a five-member Secretariat, and a 13-member Credentials Committee.

The congress further unanimously adopted the Credentials Committee’s report, confirming that all 1,586 delegates convened for the 14th National Congress met eligibility requirements.