Vietnam’s General Secretary of the Communist Party Central Committee and President, Tô Lâm, has been honored with the 2026 Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize for his notable contributions to fostering peace and global cooperation. The decision, made by an international jury, highlighted Tô Lâm’s significant impact on enhancing dialogue and collaboration among nations.
Valery Gergiev, the jury chairman and a prominent figure as the General Director of the Bolshoi Theatre and Artistic Director of the Mariinsky Theatre, announced the award. He commended Vietnam’s impressive economic growth while maintaining its cultural heritage within the context of global integration. The jury appreciated Tô Lâm’s pivotal role in advancing Vietnam’s development trajectory, advocating for global justice, and promoting adherence to international law through peaceful dialogue.
The members of the jury, which included influential figures like Vladimir Tolstoy, the Director General of the State Museum of L.N. Tolstoy and a descendant of the famed Russian author Leo Tolstoy, French public figure Pierre de Gaulle, and South African parliamentarian Lindiwe Sisulu, underscored the value of upholding the humanitarian principles that Tolstoy championed. They lauded Vietnam’s remarkable transition from a war-torn nation to one of the fastest-growing economies in the Asia-Pacific region, portraying this transformation as an inspiring model for countries striving for peace and sustainable development.
The Lev N. Tolstoy International Peace Prize, now in its third iteration, is designed to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions to peace and international understanding. This prestigious recognition is awarded by an international council composed of distinguished political, cultural, and public figures from nations including Argentina, Belarus, China, France, India, Japan, Russia, and South Africa.