On May 17, 2023, a delegation from the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) paid a visit to Foreign Trade University to delve into the "Innovating International Higher Education" model.

This engaging program attracted around 100 young leaders between the ages of 22-35, hailing from 10 ASEAN countries and Timor Leste. Participants encompassed a diverse spectrum, including educators, administrators, policymakers, and experts. This initiative was a vital component of the Young Southeast Asia Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) 2023 Regional Conference focusing on Innovating International Higher Education.

The event also featured notable figures, including Ms. Francesca Lichauco, the YSEALI Coordinator from the US Embassy, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Truong Thi Nam Thang, Director of the Center for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the National Economics University, as well as Dr. Dao Thanh Tung, Head of International Cooperation Department at the same institution.

Representing Foreign Trade University were Assoc.Prof.Dr. Bui Anh Tuan – University President; Assoc.Prof.Dr. Cao Dinh Kien, Director of Office of International Affairs; Assoc.Prof.Dr. Le Thi Thu Ha - Director of FTU Innovation and Incubation Space (FIIS), Mr. Nguyen Huyen Minh – Head of Communications and Public RelationsDepartment, along with university officials, faculty members, and students.

In his address, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Bui Anh Tuan, President of Foreign Trade University, extended a warm welcome to the YSEALI delegation as they arrived and explored the university's strategies for internationalizing education. Assoc.Prof.Dr. Bui Anh Tuan emphasized the shared commitment of YSEALI and Foreign Trade University in nurturing the skills and potential of young people who represent not only the future of their respective nations but also the future of the region and the world.

The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) stands as a U.S. Government program dedicated to advancing leadership development and fostering connections within Southeast Asia. Launched in 2013, the initiative encompasses American educational and cultural exchanges, regional dialogues, and financial support. YSEALI aims to cultivate youth leadership in the region, enhance ties between the United States and Southeast Asia, and promote a cohesive ASEAN community. Key areas of focus for YSEALI revolve around subjects of significant relevance to young people in the region, including civic engagement, environmental and natural resource management, entrepreneurship, and economic development.