Vietnam’s newly appointed President, To Lam, embarked on his first state visit to China, marking a significant step in the deepening ties between the two communist-run nations. The visit, which began on August 18, 2024, highlights the growing economic and strategic cooperation between China and Vietnam, despite occasional tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
Significance of the Visit
President To Lam’s decision to choose China as his first official destination underscores the importance Vietnam places on its relationship with its northern neighbor. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed enthusiasm over the visit, noting that it “fully reflects the great importance he attaches to the development of ties between both parties and countries.” This sentiment was echoed by President Lam, who described the bilateral relationship as a “top priority in Vietnam’s external policy.”
Key Meetings and Agreements
During his visit, President Lam held high-level discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other top officials. The meetings culminated in the signing of 14 documents, covering a wide range of sectors including transportation, agriculture, energy, and digital economy.
One of the most notable agreements centered around the development and upgrade of cross-border railway connectivity. The two countries signed planning and feasibility studies for standardized railway routes, signaling a new phase in their transportation cooperation. This follows preliminary deals made in December 2023, during President Xi’s state visit to Hanoi, which highlighted three major rail projects aimed at enhancing trade and investment flows between the two nations.
Railway Cooperation
The focus on railway development is strategic, given the growing economic interdependence between China and Vietnam. The current rail links, dating back to the French colonial era, are outdated and incompatible with China’s high-speed rail network. Upgrading these railways, particularly the routes connecting China’s southern regions to Vietnam’s northern industrial hubs, is expected to significantly boost trade and investment.
This is particularly relevant as more Chinese manufacturers relocate export-oriented operations to Vietnam amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. Enhanced rail connectivity would streamline the transportation of goods, reducing costs and improving efficiency for businesses in both countries.
Agricultural and Environmental Cooperation
In addition to transportation, the two countries signed agreements on the quarantine and inspection of agricultural products, including coconuts, crocodiles, and durians. This reflects a broader commitment to agricultural cooperation, with an emphasis on ensuring the smooth flow of goods across their shared border.
The two sides also agreed to collaborate on green development initiatives, signaling a shared interest in addressing environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economic growth.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
China and Vietnam have a long history of diplomatic relations, having established ties in 1950. In 2008, they elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation, which was further strengthened five years later to address shared international and regional concerns.
During this visit, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to this partnership, agreeing to work together on issues of common interest. This was highlighted in a joint declaration issued after the talks between President Xi and President Lam, which emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication and cooperation to handle unexpected incidents in the South China Sea.
Cultural Diplomacy
President Lam’s visit also had a cultural dimension. In Guangzhou, he visited several locations associated with Vietnam’s revolutionary leader and former President Ho Chi Minh, who conducted revolutionary activities in China during the early 20th century. This visit served as a reminder of the historical ties that bind the two countries, further reinforcing the importance of their relationship.
Conclusion
President To Lam’s visit to China represents a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between China and Vietnam. The agreements signed during the visit reflect the growing economic and strategic cooperation between the two nations, even as they navigate occasional challenges in the South China Sea. As both countries continue to strengthen their ties, this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in their partnership, with potential benefits for both their economies and their broader strategic interests in the region.
