As an expert in international relations and political geography, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the status of Vietnam as a country. Vietnam is indeed a sovereign nation, recognized as such by the international community. It is located in Southeast Asia and has a rich history that has shaped its political and economic landscape. The country's political structure is characterized by a one-party system, which is governed by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV). This political framework has been in place since the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975, which marked the end of the Vietnam War. The economy of Vietnam has been one of the fastest-growing in Southeast Asia, with significant strides made in recent years. The country has been focusing on economic reforms, opening up to international trade, and attracting foreign investment. These efforts have led to substantial growth in various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The Vietnamese government has also been actively pursuing policies aimed at integrating the country into the global economy and has been successful in joining several international trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Regarding the goal of becoming a developed nation, it is important to note that the timeline mentioned in the reference material (by 2020) has passed. However, Vietnam continues to strive for economic development and has set new targets for future growth. The country has been investing heavily in infrastructure, education, and technology to achieve these goals. The government's vision includes transforming Vietnam into a high-middle-income country by 2035 and a developed country by 2045. The reunification of Vietnam in 1975 was a pivotal moment in the country's history. After a long and devastating conflict, the fall of Saigon to the North Vietnamese forces led to the establishment of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This event marked the end of the Vietnam War and the beginning of a new era for the country, which has since been working towards unity and development. In conclusion, Vietnam is a unified country with a distinct political and economic identity. Its journey from a war-torn nation to a rapidly developing economy is a testament to its resilience and the strategic policies implemented by its government. The country's aspirations to become a developed nation are evident in its ongoing efforts to modernize and integrate into the global community. read more >>

Vietnam, a one-party Communist state, has one of south-east Asia's fastest-growing economies and has set its sights on becoming a developed nation by 2020. It became a unified country once more in 1975 when the armed forces of the Communist north seized the south.read more >>