Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Vietnam for a two-day state visit, marking a significant step in strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two neighboring countries. This visit follows last year’s trip to China by Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, who was the first foreign leader to meet with Xi after the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.
The historical ties between China and Vietnam date back over a thousand years, characterized by periods of peaceful coexistence and mutual cooperation. Formal diplomatic relations were established in 1950, and despite a brief interruption, the two nations resumed ties in 1991, ushering in a new era of partnership.
In 1998, Vietnam adopted its “Three Nos” defense policy—no military alliances, no siding with one country against another, and no foreign military bases on its soil—paving the way for enhanced cooperation with China. The signing of a land border treaty and other agreements transformed the Chinese-Vietnamese border into a boundary of peace, stability, and development.
The strategic partnership between China and Vietnam was officially elevated in 2008, and leaders from both countries have expressed optimism about the future of their relationship. Vietnamese leaders regard China as a strategic choice and a top priority in their foreign policy of independence.
During recent high-level meetings, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son discussed enhancing strategic connectivity between the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Vietnam’s “Two Corridors, One Belt” framework. The BRI has been lauded in Vietnam for its potential to deliver public goods and foster development.
China is Vietnam’s largest trading partner. According to Vietnamese data, bilateral trade is on track to surpass the 2022 total of $175 billion, reaching $140 billion in the first ten months of 2023. Chinese investments, preferential loans, and aid amounting to an estimated $26 billion are contributing significantly to Vietnam’s socio-economic development, infrastructure building, poverty reduction, job creation, and overall economic growth.
President Xi’s visit is expected to further deepen cooperation, strengthen economic ties, and contribute to regional stability. As both nations commit to maintaining peace and stability at sea, this historic visit symbolizes a new chapter in the enduring friendship between China and Vietnam.
Reference(s):
Xi's Vietnam trip to chart a new course of growth and stability
cgtn.com
