A well-crafted speech can do more than just inform. It can inspire, influence policy and shape international relationships.
Writing speeches for high-level leaders was the focus of a practical training workshop for approximately 70 Vietnamese government officials this week, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) with the support of the Australian Government through the Vietnam Australia Centre (VAC).
Participants engage with Mr. Michael Smith, Senior Facilitator from Ethos CRS, the consultancy in strategic communication and stakeholder engagement.
Held on 15 and 16 July 2025 in Hanoi, the workshop brought together officials across MOFA, Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (HCMA) and Office of Government (OOG) to learn from experienced speech-writing practitioners from both Australia and Vietnam. Participants learned how to prepare compelling talking points, write for influence, and deliver impactful messages, all essential skills for today’s complex diplomatic and policy landscape.
An online presentation by Mr Joseph Kerr, Director, Speech Writing at the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Canberra
Assoc. Prof., Dr Nguyen Manh Hung, VAC National Director shares his practical experience in preparing talking points for high-level leaders
Ms Peta Donald, First Secretary, Australian Embassy in Hanoi shares experience drafting speech.
Participants engage in discussion with guest experts.
“Speechwriting is more than just words. It is about shaping the messages that reflect our values and shared priorities. I am very proud that through capacity enhancement activities for Vietnamese officials, Australia is supporting Vietnam’s diplomatic efforts to address national and global challenges.” said Ms Cathy McWilliam, Acting Counsellor, Australian Embassy in Hanoi.
Opening remarks by Ms Cathy McWilliam, Acting Counsellor, Australian Embassy in Hanoi
The interactive sessions, led by experts from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, MOFA, and HCMA combined theory and real-world examples with practical exercises. Participants worked in teams to analyse speeches by global leaders, refine key messages, and present draft talking points tailored for senior Vietnamese leaders.
“Developing speeches for senior leaders is among key international integration tasks for foreign affairs officials. This workshop is proof of good cooperation between Vietnam and Australia and demonstrates our commitment to improve capacity of officials working in the public sector to meet requirements of the new tasks in the new situation,” said Ms Nguyen Dieu Ha, Acting Head of Division of Training and Recruitment, Department of Organisation and Personnel, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Opening remarks by Ms Nguyen Dieu Ha, Acting Head of Division of Training and Recruitment, Department of Organisation and Personnel, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
This initiative builds on VAC’s commitment to supporting public sector leadership and professional communication in Vietnam. It also reflects the increasing demand for effective speechwriting skills across ministries and agencies, particularly in roles that involve high-level engagement and policy coordination.
“This kind of training prepares us for diverse contexts in our current roles as foreign affairs. I now feel better prepared with the practical tools and real insight to support high-level diplomacy through my writing,” said participant Dang Trung Dung, Lecturer at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam.
Group exercise
A participant presents their group exercise
The workshop marked the second time VAC has supported this specialised training, previously in collaboration with the External Relations Commission in 2024. This is one example of VAC’s continued work with government partners to provide targeted, high-impact learning opportunities that enhance Vietnam’s public sector capacity.
The VAC is a joint initiative of the Australian and Vietnamese Governments to build the skills of Vietnamese leadership and unite Australia and Vietnam on common regional issues and shared challenges.
