Summary of PhD Thesis by Phung Chi Kien

 

INTRODUCTION

            1. The urgency of the topic

This topic was chosen for the following main reasons:

First,In Vietnam, research topics within the field of political science are limited in number, focusing directly on international political relations. For a relatively long time, research on international political relations has often been integrated into international relations research, leading to unclear demarcation and leaving certain gaps that need further clarification.

Secondly,The period 1945-1955 has been discussed in numerous works, but its interpretation from the perspective of international political relations has not received much attention. In reality, the period 1945-1955 presents many noteworthy issues that require analysis and explanation, such as: 1945-1955 was a period encompassing many complex and interwoven relationships, as well as continuous cooperation and struggle between participating entities. It played a pivotal role in initiating a new global political landscape, laying the foundation for the development of a bipolar world order and many major international changes in the years that followed; despite the intense confrontation between the socialist and capitalist blocs, a third world war did not occur. Instead, the Cold War emerged, escalated, and then entered a temporary period of de-escalation. This period witnessed the gradual decline of old-style colonialism, with many colonial countries regaining independence after World War II through various means, including some countries that defeated the re-invasion of colonial powers (typically the defeat of France in 1954 in the Indochina War);… Many researchers have attempted to fully explain the content of international political relations during the 1945-1955 period, but to date, many conflicting opinions still exist.

Third,Beyond its professional significance, the study of international political relations during the 1945-1955 period also holds considerable practical value. By analyzing the fundamental content of international political relations during this time, we can draw general conclusions, thereby identifying and affirming some common characteristics and experiences in international political relations in general. These common characteristics and experiences help to understand the dynamics of contemporary world politics more objectively and comprehensively, while also providing a foundation for proposals and recommendations to improve national foreign policy.

Fourth,Over the past thirty years of reform, despite achieving many successes, Vietnam's foreign policy has not been without certain limitations. Notably, the period from 1945 to 1955 witnessed many ups and downs for Vietnam as a participant in several major international political relations at that time. Historical reality shows that, because it still holds much value for Vietnam, the lessons learned from this period need to be further analyzed, summarized, and applied.

For the reasons mentioned above, the author decided to choose this topic."International Political Relations (1945-1955)"I chose this topic for my doctoral dissertation. This topic is suitable for my Political Science major because it focuses on analyzing and clarifying major issues in international political relations during the years 1945-1955. While interdisciplinary knowledge and research methods are essential, this topic demonstrates the continuity of a political science approach, centered on the power relations between actors participating in international politics and their reciprocal influence on the changing global political landscape. The scope, time frame, and geographical location of the topic are also clearly defined, meeting the requirements of a doctoral dissertation.

2. Research objectives and tasks

2.1. Purpose

Clarify the fundamental content of international political relations during the period 1945-1955, and from there draw valuable observations and recommendations for the current period.

2.2. Tasks

- Clarifying some related theoretical issues: the concept of international political relations; characteristics of international political relations; major theories when studying international political relations; subjects and methods of participation in international political relations; factors affecting international political relations; determining the approach to studying international political relations within a specific time period;…

- Research and analyze the main aspects of international political relations during the period 1945-1955.

- Draw general conclusions about international political relations during the period 1945-1955 and some common lessons learned in international political relations.

- Propose several recommendations to contribute to the improvement of Vietnam's foreign policy in the coming period.

3. Research subjects and scope

3.1. Research Subjects

International political relations during the period 1945-1955

3.2. Scope of the study

- Timeframe:period 1945-1955 (from after World War II to the end of 1955)

- Spatial scope:This study examines the overall international political relations during the period 1945-1955, both on an international level and focusing on a number of representative countries, regions, and hotspots with significant influence.

- Scope of content:The fundamental aspects of international political relations from the end of World War II until the temporary easing of East-West tensions after nearly a decade of intense conflict will be analyzed; international political relations before and during World War II will be selectively integrated into relevant content; and connections to the present period will be made where necessary, especially in the final chapter.

4. Theoretical basis and research methods

4.1. Theoretical basis

The overarching theoretical foundation throughout the dissertation is Marxism-Leninism and Ho Chi Minh Thought. Simultaneously, an interdisciplinary approach to political science is employed to ensure relevance to the specific field and the subject matter. The dissertation also incorporates perspectives from several major theories in international relations research, such as realism, liberalism, and Marxist-Leninist arguments on international relations. Along with traditional theories in international relations research, the dissertation will also utilize valuable insights from other relevant theories (such as systems theory, game theory, etc.) to find a more comprehensive and holistic interpretation of the research problem.

4.2. Research Methodology

- The historical-logical method:This method is used to scientifically and logically connect, systematize, and arrange historical events and developments within the timeframe of the topic, creating a basis for explaining the content of international political relations during the period 1945-1955.

- Comparative method:This method is frequently used in this research. Specifically, it is helpful in important tasks such as: comparing the viewpoints and actions of the actors involved in international political relations during the years 1945-1955; comparing many of the author's assessments with actual developments in world politics, with the content of official documents and statements from the same period, etc., thereby verifying their reasonableness and scientific validity;...

- Statistical methods and data processing:This method is applied intermittently in several parts of the thesis, helping the author to provide the necessary data and evidence to support the stated conclusion.

In addition, the thesis also utilizes several other supplementary methods to address specific problems encountered during the research process.

5. Novel contributions of the thesis

- Several theoretical aspects related to the thesis content (concepts and characteristics of international political relations; factors affecting international political relations; some typical theories in the study of international political relations; approaches to studying the content of international political relations within a specific time period;...) are clarified further.

- International political relations during the period 1945-1955 are studied scientifically and systematically based on a political science approach.

- The international political relations of 1945-1955 are reviewed comprehensively, highlighting some common lessons and making recommendations for Vietnam in the current period.

6. Theoretical and practical significance

- Theoretical significance: Contributes to the refinement of the theoretical foundation of international political relations research; interprets international political relations during the 1945-1955 period from a political science perspective.

- Practical significance: It serves as a reference document for other related topics; it offers some scientifically-based observations and recommendations that are valuable for Vietnam in the current period.

7. Structure of the thesis

Besides the Introduction, Conclusion, and Bibliography, the Body of the thesis consists of 4 chapters:

Chapter 1. Overview of the research situation

Chapter 2. Some Theoretical Issues Regarding International Political Relations

Chapter 3. Main Content of International Political Relations during the Period 1945-1955

Chapter 4. Policy Comments and Recommendations

 

Chapter 1.

OVERVIEW OF THE RESEARCH SITUATION

1.1. Current research related to the topic

1.1.1. Research related totheories of international political relations

Notable studies related to this issue include: the workThe Oxford Handbook of International Political Theoryby Chris Brown, Robyn Eckersley (2018), Oxford University Press, New York; workInternational Relations TheoryEdited by Hoang Khac Nam (2017), The Gioi Publishing House, Hanoi; workTheory of International Politicsby Kenneth N. Waltz (2010), Waveland Press, Inc., USA; workInternational Relations - Approachesby author Doan Van Thang (2003), Statistical Publishing House, Hanoi; workInternational Relationsby Stephen McGlinchey (Series Editor) (2017), E-International Relations Publishing, Bristol, England; workWorld Politics: Trends and Transformationsby Charles W. Kegley, Shannon L. Blanton (2017), Cengage Learning, Boston; workWorld Politics – Interests, Interactions, Institutionsby Jeffry A. Frieden, David A. Lake, Kenneth A. Schultz (2015), WW Norton & Company, New York and London; worksTheory of International Relationsby Paul R. Viotti, Mark V. Kauppi (2003), Labor Publishing House, Hanoi;...

1.1.2. Researchrelated to the content of international political relations during the period 1945-1955

Notable studies related to this issue include: the workHistory of international relations from World War II to the Korean War (1939–1952)by Pham Giang (2005), National Political Publishing House, Hanoi; the bookCold War: An International Historyby K. Fink (2018), Routledge, US.; workHistory of international relationsby Bogaturov Aleksey Demofenovich, Averkov Viktor Viktorovich (2013), National Political Publishing House – Truth, Hanoi; workHistory of Modern International Relationsby Tran Nam Tien (Editor), Nguyen Tuan Khanh, Tran Phi Tuan (2008), Education Publishing House, Hanoi.; workWorld politics after 1945by Peter Calvocoressi (2007), Labor Publishing House, Hanoi; workThe World Since 1945 – A History of International Relationsby Wayne C. McWilliams, Harry Piotrowski (1993), Lynne Rienner Publishers, USA; workInternational relations from 1945 to 1995by Hoang Van Hien, Nguyen Viet Thao (1998), National Political Publishing House, Hanoi; workModern World History 1917 – 1995Edited by Nguyen Anh Thai (2014), Vietnam Education Publishing House, Hanoi; workTwo ideologies, one hundred yearsby Tieu Phong (2004), National Political Publishing House, Hanoi;…

1.1.3. Research on the summary of international political relations during the period 1945-1955 and related observations and recommendations.

Among the documents (both Vietnamese and foreign languages) presented in subsections 1.1.1 and 1.1.2, many relate to summarizing the characteristics and nature of international political relations during the 1945-1955 period, as well as offering valuable observations and recommendations. The author will not repeat these documents but will add some other noteworthy materials, most notably: the workRegarding the laws and regularities in international relations.by Vu Duong Huan, (2007), Southeast Asian Studies, No. 2 (65), pp. 62-70; workThe Cold War as Historyby Louis Joseph Halle (1967), Harper & Row, Publishers, US; workThe fate of war: Can the US and China escape the Thucydides trap?by author Graham Allison (2019), Hanoi Publishing House, Hanoi; workContemporary World OrderTran Huu Tien (2014),Political theory, No. 5, pp. 98-100; worksUS-China relations: Cooperation and competition, analyzed from the perspective of the balance of power.by Nguyen Thai Yen Huong (2017), National Political Publishing House, Hanoi;...

1.2. Results of published studies and issues the thesis needs to focus on.

1.2.1. Results of published studies

After synthesizing and reviewing published works and documents related to the thesis, the author draws the following conclusions:

The first,Issues such as defining the concept of international political relations, distinguishing international political relations from international relations in general and international relations in other fields, the theoretical framework for analyzing international political relations in a specific historical period, and the classification and interpretation of factors affecting international political relations in a comprehensive and scientific manner, have not been addressed and analyzed in depth in many works.

MondayFurthermore, the number of studies approaching international relations in general, and international relations in specific periods, from a new perspective, especially political science, is still limited. Even those that exist do not clearly demonstrate a significant difference from the traditional viewpoint. On the other hand, many studies tend to equate international relations with international political relations; therefore, their content primarily revolves around political relations rather than addressing other forms of relations.

TuesdayInternational relations during the years 1945-1955 have been discussed in many published works, but none have directly and in-depth studied them.international political relations period 1945-1955.

1.2.2. Issues the dissertation focuses on.

Based on the above observations, this thesis will focus on analyzing the following issues:

First,This clarifies the general theory of international political relations; it constructs a theoretical framework for interpreting international political relations during the period 1945-1955 based on a political science approach.

SecondThis analysis of international political relations during the 1945-1955 period is based on a political science perspective, with key variables being: power and its organization and distribution; the subjects and major lines of relations between influential subjects; and the study of international political relations within the overall international system of the same period.

Third is, offering a concluding observation on the characteristics of international political relations during the period 1945-1955.

Fourth isDrawing valuable lessons and policy recommendations that can be applied in practice in Vietnam today.

 

Chapter 2.

SOME THEORETICAL ISSUES

REGARDING INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL RELATIONS

 2.1. The concept of "international political relations"

From the author's perspective, this thesis can be broadly defined as follows:international political relations are power relations between entities involved in international relationsThis definition encompasses three distinct characteristics of international political relations: social and power-based (general characteristics of political relations); and international nature (two specific characteristics of international political relations). More specifically, international political relations are not identical to international relations because they are specifically defined in the political sphere, where "power" is the central element. On the other hand, they also do not overlap with political relations at other levels because their international nature is concretized by the state of "anarchy".

2.2. Basic theories of international political relations

2.2.1. Realism

In summary, despite differing opinions, the following are some of the main tenets of realism:the first,States are the primary subjects in international relations, behaving as unique, rational entities;Secondly,The international anarchic environment is a powerful factor influencing the motivations and actions of nations;Tuesday,Power and security are the primary concerns of a nation in an anarchic environment;Wednesday,International institutions have only a secondary impact on cooperation.

2.2.2. Liberalism

In essence, the main tenets of liberalism can be summarized as follows:the first,In international relations, besides states, there are also non-state actors;Monday,International relations are heavily influenced by domestic factors.Tuesday,The state is a rational entity, but differs from the realist view in several key respects;Wednesday,National interests are diverse, and international relations encompass many different areas, not just security and power.Thursday,In an anarchic international environment, conflict is not the only state of existence.

2.2.3. Marxism-Leninism

Some of the key tenets of Marxism-Leninism on international relations can be summarized as follows:the first,Class is the primary subject in international relations;Monday,International relations began to develop alongside the development of the capitalist economy;Tuesday,Class interests are the primary national interests in international relations;Wednesday,It presents a viewpoint on proletarian internationalism, emphasizing the necessity of proletarian solidarity in the struggle against capitalism;Thursday,In specific historical periods, the socialist and capitalist groups still faced common problems that required cooperation to resolve.Friday,The proletariat and national liberation movements need alliances and solidarity to fight against their common enemy, the international bourgeoisie.

2.3. Subjects and methods of participation in international political relations

2.3.1. Subjects participating in international political relations

2.3.1.1. State Subject

The state has been, is, and continues to be the most important subject in international relations in general and international political relations in particular for the following reasons:the firstThe state is the entity with the highest and most enduring sovereignty;Monday, the purpose of a nation's participation in international relations is clearly defined and strongly motivated;TuesdayThe state is the entity with the greatest ability to influence and impact international relations in all aspects.

2.3.1.2. Non-state actors

Notable non-state actors include:international organization(International organization) andmultinational corporation(Transnational Corporation). Besides the above-mentioned prominent entities, there are several other noteworthy entities that participate in and play roles to varying degrees in world politics.

2.3.2. Methods of participating in international political relations

2.3.2.1. Conflict

Regarding the methodconflictIt can be asserted that this is a traditional method that has long been used in international political relations, with a solid theoretical foundation in the various schools of realism and, to some extent, Marxism.

2.3.2.2. Cooperation

Unlike conflict, the methodcooperateIt is based on the main theory of liberalism. Contrary to a pessimistic view of human nature, liberalism believes in the possibility of cooperation to achieve common goals and solve common problems among actors in international relations.

2.4. Fundamental factors affecting international political relations

It can be asserted that any issue in international political relations is simultaneously influenced by numerous factors to varying degrees. However, some fundamental factors have the potential to have a more direct and profound impact on international political relations compared to others. In this section, considering the context of the 1945-1955 period, the author focuses on clarifying two very important factors:national interestandworld order.

2.5. Basis for determining the content of international political relations during the period 1945-1955

The author presents the following main arguments that help shape the basis for determining the content of international political relations during the period 1945-1955:the first,This thesis does not rely entirely on any of the theories mentioned above, but will attempt to select suitable aspects of each theory to relatively fully address the specific tasks, with priority given to...realismandMarxism-Leninism;MondayBased on the definition that international political relations are power relations between actors participating in international relations, the thesis identifies,relationships in the pursuit, retention, and exercise of powerInteractions between actors in international relations constitute the fundamental content of international political relations in general, and international political relations during the period 1945-1955 in particular;Tuesday,This dissertation will systematize the basic contents of international political relations during the period 1945-1955 according to the main lines of relations that could influence the overall development of world politics. Based on the above interpretations, the subjects that the dissertation focuses on are nation-states that existed during the period 1945-1955, categorized into the following main groups:capitalist countries; socialist countries; colonial countries.

 

Chapter 3.

MAIN CONTENT OF

INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL RELATIONS DURING THE PERIOD 1945-1955

3.1. Relationships within the capitalist bloc

3.1.1. The balance of power shifts.

The first notable development in the political relations between capitalist countries in the post-World War II era was the rise of the United States as the leading nation in the capitalist world. The US unilaterally, or in collaboration with other major capitalist countries, implemented a series of major economic, political, and military policies. This demonstrated that, in order to fulfill its leadership role in the capitalist bloc and rise to the position of the number one superpower, the US chose not to return to its traditional isolationism.

3.1.2. The emergence of a new framework for relationships

Political relations in the capitalist world developed within a new framework – the capitalist bloc. The emergence of the US-led capitalist bloc made political relations between capitalist countries more binding, and their effectiveness improved significantly. This framework comprised relatively clearly defined members, with the ultimate goal (whether declared or not) being to compete with the socialist bloc of the Cold War.

3.1.3. Relationships developing within the new framework

3.1.3.1. Regarding support for the establishment and development of pro-Western states.

First and foremost, resolving the problems in Germany was perhaps the greatest concern of the capitalist bloc. Also on the European continent, two other hotspots of great interest to the West were Greece and Türkiye. In another strategic region, the Middle East, the leading capitalist countries also sought to establish a solid power base, clearly demonstrated by their involvement in Iran's internal affairs and support for the establishment of the Jewish state of Israel. Due to the limited resources of Western European countries, the United States proactively intervened increasingly deeply in the political and security situations of many other countries and regions (Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Japan, etc.). On the other hand, the US also supported colonial powers in maintaining their colonial regimes through economic and military aid to sustain pro-capitalist regimes, most notably in Indochina. However, the efforts to consolidate and expand the influence of capitalist countries were not without obstacles.

3.1.3.2. Regarding the establishment of new cooperation mechanisms to strengthen the power of the capitalist bloc.

Overall, the most notable effort during this period was the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). In Western Europe, following the devastating consequences of the two world wars, countries in the region understood the importance of rapprochement to prevent a recurrence of war. A functional approach was prioritized, focusing primarily on regional economic integration. Parallel to these developments in Europe, the United States also sought to consolidate its influence and capitalist ideology in Latin America. From the beginning of 1950, the security situation in East Asia and Southeast Asia became increasingly complex, demanding deeper US involvement. The White House also promoted the establishment of bilateral alliances and the building of new military alliances in the region. However, these alliances were not as effective as anticipated.

3.1.3.3. Regarding weakening the influence of the Soviet Union and communism within the capitalist bloc.

Along with actions aimed at strengthening the capitalist bloc and competing directly or indirectly with the socialist bloc on various fronts, capitalist countries also strived to weaken the role and influence of individuals, organizations, and movements that tended to support the Soviet Union and communism within their own countries. They simultaneously propagated anti-communist ideology widely throughout the capitalist world and used political maneuvering to intervene in the real situation when necessary.

3.2. Relations within the socialist bloc

3.2.1. Building a new framework for relationships

Unlike the capitalist world, from the outset, the Soviet Union held the most significant position among the socialist countries. Therefore, the formation of the socialist bloc did not occur on the premise of a shift in the balance of power as was the case with the capitalist bloc. While in the capitalist world, Britain and several other powers still held considerable influence alongside the leading United States, the socialist bloc saw little sharing of leadership in its formation, as the Soviet Union possessed sufficient power and influence to assume and implement almost all of the primary responsibilities throughout the process. Simultaneously, the socialist countries took important steps in their political relations. The first step was the signing of bilateral treaties to establish and strengthen ties. The next step was the establishment of international organizations within the bloc to support the development of each country as well as the international communist and workers' movement in the new circumstances. In this area of ​​relations, the establishment of the Communist Information Agency (Cominform) and the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (SEV or Comecon) were the most important highlights.

3.2.2. Development of relationships within the new framework

Following the establishment of a new political framework, the socialist bloc prioritized expansion by increasing membership, notably with the participation of the People's Republic of China, the German Democratic Republic (or East Germany), and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. In addition to these new members, political relations within the socialist bloc continued to improve the mechanism of intra-bloc cooperation with the establishment of...Warsaw PactAnother important aspect of the socialist bloc's political relations was its efforts to support and aid the struggle against imperialism and colonialism by colonial peoples and revolutionary, peace-loving forces around the world.

3.3. The relationship between the socialist bloc and the capitalist bloc

3.3.1. Political relations at the systemic level

The establishment of a new world order based on the two superpowers of the Soviet Union and the United States was the first notable manifestation of political relations between the socialist and capitalist blocs in the post-war period. The outbreak of the Cold War was the next major turning point in international political relations between the socialist and capitalist blocs at the systemic level. Resolving issues related to nuclear weapons was another key highlight in political relations at this level.

3.3.2. Political relations in specific hotspots

Regarding the hotspots of Greece, Türkiye, and Iran.These were key political hotspots that clearly demonstrated the escalating conflict between the Soviet Union and the West in the early post-World War II period, directly contributing to the Cold War.Regarding the German hotspot,The confrontation over Berlin triggered the First Berlin Crisis, marking Germany's first official outbreak of a flashpoint since the Cold War.Regarding the China hotspotFirst and foremost, the outcome of the Chinese Civil War was a direct catalyst for the surge in anti-communist sentiment in American politics in the early 1950s. For international political relations in general, the emergence of a new China also paved the way for the return and continuous growth of a powerful superpower in the world order.Regarding the Korean Peninsula hotspotContinuing the escalation of tensions between the two blocs from West to East, the Korean Peninsula became a new battleground, culminating in the Korean War.

3.4. Relations between colonial countries and imperialist, colonial, and socialist countries.

3.4.1. Relationships in the issue of national liberation

The role of many capitalist powers in this area of ​​relations became evident from the 1945-1946 period with their ambition to reoccupy former colonies after the end of World War II. However, despite their best efforts, the imperialist powers could not avoid the reality that their strength had significantly weakened after the war, and the intense struggle in their former colonies made maintaining strong colonial rule in the traditional way increasingly impossible. Nevertheless, in strategically located colonies that greatly influenced the East-West competition, the struggle against colonialism and imperialism continued to be difficult and complex. These developments are clearly demonstrated in the case of the Indochina Peninsula. The developments related to the choice of a solution to end the First Indochina War through the Geneva Conference in 1954 also reflect some major turning points in international political relations in the late 1945-1955 period.

3.4.2. Relationships in the selection of foreign policy

Gaining independence was difficult, but building relationships with the world in general, and with the countries that had once colonized them in particular, was even more challenging. In summary, there were three main trends in the foreign policy of post-colonial countries: direct participation in or close relations with the socialist bloc (the Philippines being a prime example); direct participation in or close relations with the capitalist bloc (the Democratic Republic of Vietnam being a prime example); and attempts to maintain neutrality, not joining any bloc (India and the Non-Aligned Movement being prime examples).

 

Chapter 4.

POLICY COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1. Some observations on international political relations during the period 1945-1955

4.1.1. Basic characteristics

The first, the dominant role of the state entity compared to the non-state entity.MondayBetween nations, there existed a deep hierarchical relationship, in which power and roles in international political relations were concentrated primarily in the hands of the great powers, especially the two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union.TuesdayIn international political relations, the main actors engage primarily through conflict; cooperation is used, but it is not the dominant method.WednesdayThe roles of certain individuals become very prominent, but they remain non-decisive to the overall content of international political relations.ThursdayIdeology is a very important factor, but it cannot completely dominate national interests.FridayThe emergence of a bipolar system with a corresponding power order was a major factor influencing international political relations from 1945 to 1955 in overall terms.

4.1.2. Some common experiences

The firstRegarding the subjects of international political relations: superpowers (if any) and key powers have the ability to exert significant influence over international political relations.MondayRegarding the methods of engaging in international political relations: conflict exists as the primary means by which actors participate in international political relations.TuesdayRegarding the factor of national interest: national interest is always the highest goal of countries when participating in international political relations.WednesdayRegarding the world order: international political relations tend to change in accordance with the shifts in the power structure within the international system.

4.2. Some policy recommendations

First proposalTherefore, a relatively accurate and specific assessment of Vietnam's overall national strength and its position in the contemporary world power order is necessary.Second proposalTherefore, we need to seize the opportunities arising from the changing global power order to elevate the country's standing.Third proposalTherefore, Vietnam needs specific countermeasures in response to the strong rise of China, which has the potential to become a superpower.

CONCLUDE

Although the historical period of 1945-1955 has been studied from many different perspectives, international political relations during this time remain a subject requiring further in-depth analysis. This is because the content of international political relations from 1945-1955 is not only fascinating to experts but also holds significant practical value for the present day, particularly in understanding contemporary world politics and formulating appropriate foreign policies for Vietnam.

For that reason, in this thesis, the author has focused on carrying out a number of specific research tasks with the following basic results:

The first,The thesis synthesized and evaluated outstanding research findings, thereby identifying gaps that the topic could explore, specifically: although the number of research works both domestically and internationally directly and indirectly related to international relations theory is abundant, the theory of international political relations has not been adequately addressed and given sufficient attention; the history of international relations in general and international relations in specific periods has been studied in many works, but the number of works approaching these issues from a new perspective, especially political science, is still limited, or if there are any, they do not clearly show the difference from the traditional perspective; international relations during the period 1945-1955 is an issue that has been addressed in many works, butInternational political relations during the years 1945-1955This is a new topic, and no studies have directly investigated it.

Monday,The dissertation has established a scientific theoretical framework for analyzing international political relations during the period 1945-1955. Accordingly, the author has: provided definitions and determined the content of basic concepts such as political relations, international relations, international political relations, etc.; researched major theories, focusing on clarifying some theories that are closely related to the research subject of the dissertation; identified the main subjects and methods of participation in international political relations; determined the main factors affecting international political relations; and clarified the basis for determining the content of the main research problem in the dissertation.

Tuesday,The author analyzed the main content of international political relations from 1945 to 1955 based on the key lines of relations that likely dominated world politics during that period. Following this approach, the thesis examined the content of international political relations during the 1945-1955 period based on the main lines of relations: relations within the capitalist bloc; relations within the socialist bloc; relations between the capitalist bloc and the socialist bloc; and relations between colonial countries and imperialist, colonial, and socialist countries. Within each line of relations, some actors played a more significant role than others, even in some cases being able to independently make decisions that other actors had to follow. By delving deeply into each line of relationships, the thesis closely follows the dynamics of power relations between the relevant entities, thereby generalizing a number of major issues and arranging them in a certain order, depending on the specific characteristics of each line.

Wednesday,This thesis utilizes a theoretical framework and research findings to provide a general assessment of international political relations from 1945 to 1955, thereby affirming some common experiences in international political relations. The author understands that accurately identifying a law of international political relations is a difficult problem to solve due to the complexity and constant changes in world political life. Furthermore, attempting to derive a general law for international political relations solely from studying a specific historical period, such as 1945-1955, may lead to misconceptions and misjudgments. Therefore, by combining a study of the development of international political relations from its beginnings to the present, the thesis has summarized some (but not all) common experiences of international political relations, classified them according to the theoretical framework of the thesis, and used the results obtained to affirm their persuasiveness.

Thursday,The thesis proposed several policy recommendations that offer insightful suggestions for the research, planning, and implementation of Vietnam's foreign policy. These recommendations relate to clearly defining Vietnam's strength and position in the international arena, seizing opportunities to help Vietnam achieve new advancements in its development, and formulating a suitable policy to prepare Vietnam for the rise of China. The author utilized research findings on international political relations during the 1945-1955 period, as well as up-to-date practical data, as the basis for these recommendations.

Despite best efforts, due to the novelty and complexity of the subject matter, the research results of this thesis are inevitably flawed. Nevertheless, the author hopes that this thesis will make a positive contribution to the field of international political relations research, as well as to the planning and implementation of Vietnam's foreign policy, aiming to enhance the country's position and influence on the international stage in the future.

LIST OF SCIENTIFIC WORKS BY

AUTHORS RELATED TO THE THESIS

 

1. Tran Tho Quang, Phung Chi Kien (2020), “Discussion on the concept of international political relations”,African & Middle Eastern Studies01(173, January 2020), pp. 19-27.
2. Phung Chi Kien (2020), “The relationship between great powers affected the seizure of power in Vietnam in August 1945”,Theoretical Education306 (4/2020), pp. 50-55.