Tô Lâm, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President, has been honored with the 2026 Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize. The award, which celebrates significant contributions to peace and international cooperation, was bestowed upon him by an international jury that unanimously recognized his efforts in fostering global peace, dialogue, and collaboration among nations.
Valery Gergiev, the jury chairman and a prominent figure in Russian arts, praised Vietnam’s impressive economic growth under Tô Lâm’s leadership, highlighting the country’s ability to maintain its cultural identity while integrating into the global economy. Gergiev, who serves as the General Director of the Bolshoi Theatre and Artistic Director of the Mariinsky Theatre, noted this achievement while announcing the jury’s decision.
The jury also acknowledged Tô Lâm’s significant role in propelling Vietnam’s development, advocating for global justice, and promoting adherence to international law. His commitment to fostering dialogue and peaceful cooperation in international relations was particularly commended. Among the jury members were notable figures such as Vladimir Tolstoy, a descendant of the famed Russian writer Leo Tolstoy, French public figure Pierre de Gaulle, and South African parliamentarian Lindiwe Sisulu, all of whom emphasized the importance of upholding the humanitarian values cherished by Tolstoy.
In their deliberations, the jury highlighted Vietnam’s remarkable transformation from a war-torn country to one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region. They described this evolution as a source of inspiration for other nations aspiring for peace and sustainable development. The Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize, in its third iteration, continues to recognize individuals who have significantly contributed to peace and global understanding.
The selection of the laureate is conducted by an international council composed of distinguished political, cultural, and public figures from countries such as Argentina, Belarus, China, France, India, Japan, Russia, and South Africa, underscoring the global prestige and significance of this accolade.