China’s President Xi Jinping visited Vietnam on Tuesday, his first trip there in six years. This was a strategic move to counter the growing power of the US in the area. The visit includes important talks about politics, security, working together in the real world, public opinion, multilateral problems, and maritime issues.
China’s Xi visits Vietnam, seeks to strengthen ties (Photo: AP News)
President Xi Jinping Visit Vietnam to counter the growing power of the US in the area
Xi met with Nguyen Phu Trong, the leader of Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party. This comes after Hanoi improved its relations with the US during the visit of President Joe Biden. The US is trying to keep China’s growing economic power in check and get materials needed for high-tech manufacturing. This has made Vietnam carefully manage its relationships with both giants through a process called “bamboo diplomacy.”
Vietnam shares the US’s concerns over China’s South China Sea aggression. Due to their communist governments, the country and China have tight economic connections. China and Vietnam have a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” Vietnam’s highest diplomatic status, while the US and Vietnam reached the same level in September.
According to reports, Xi’s visit is likely to focus on improving China-Vietnam relations, maybe by inviting Vietnam to join his “Community of Common Destiny.” This program envisions future economic, security, and political collaboration.
READ ALSO: China Unveils Foldable Mars Quadcopter For Sample Collection Mission
Chinese and Vietnamese flags lined Xi’s walk from the airport to center Hanoi, where well-wishers waved them.
Xi will meet with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Vo Van Thuong and visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum. With China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan all disputing the South China Sea, the visit comes amid rising tensions. China’s decade-long land reclamation in the South China Sea has created fortified islands, escalating regional tensions.
Analysts predict that Xi’s visit may also focus on rare earth materials, needed to make high-tech equipment, with Vietnam as a prospective partner. The US and Vietnam agreed to develop and quantify Vietnam’s rare earth resources in September, highlighting their growing strategic importance.
READ ALSO: China And Russia Challenge U.S. Role In Gaza Conflict
