When Vietnam and Finland Meet in Respect and Humanity

The two photographs from the State visit of Tô Lâm, General Secretary and President of Vietnam, to Finland are more than diplomatic moments — they are symbols of the art of conduct and the philosophy of leadership shared by both nations: humility, sincerity, and equality.

In the moment of their handshake, their eyes and smiles said it all — no pomp, no distance, only mutual trust and respect.
On the red carpet, the Finnish President’s bouquet of red roses and the warm, genuine smile of Vietnam’s leader conveyed friendship, warmth, and gratitude.

The Art of the Handshake – When Strength Lies in Humility

What left the deepest impression was the Finnish President’s two-handed handshake.
Though both men hold the same high office — heads of state — the President of Finland chose to clasp the Vietnamese leader’s hand with both of his, gently and warmly.

In the language of diplomacy, this is far more than etiquette — it is a silent expression of profound respect and sincere friendship.
If a one-handed handshake represents equality, then a two-handed handshake carries a deeper message:

“We value you not only as a leader, but as a trusted friend.”

This gesture reflects the essence of Finnish culture — modest, thoughtful, and deeply human.
In Nordic tradition, true strength does not come from power or protocol, but from honesty and openness.
By using both hands, the Finnish President symbolically lowered his ego to elevate the bond between two nations.

From a Vietnamese perspective, this act holds even more meaning.
In Eastern philosophy, “sincerity brings respect, and respect brings harmony.”
That brief moment captured the spirit that both nations share: respect to draw closer, and cooperation to move forward together.

This visit reaffirms that Vietnam is a reliable and open partner, while Finland — a global leader in education, sustainability, and good governance — offered a warm and dignified welcome.
It exemplifies the art of meaningful simplicity, where gestures speak louder than words, carrying a message of cooperation, respect, and a rules-based global order.

In an age of global uncertainty, the image of that handshake between Helsinki and Hanoi shines as a symbol of hope and balance — where two nations, though distant in geography, are united in shared human values: peace, development, and compassion.