Xi Jinping and Vietnamese Leader To Lam Discuss Maritime Disputes and Strengthen Relations

President Xi Jinping called for better management of differences between China and Vietnam during a meeting with Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam. Lam recently took over as general secretary of the Vietnamese Communist Party. The leaders aim to enhance political trust, security cooperation, and manage maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

President Xi Jinping on Monday called for improved management of differences between China and Vietnam over maritime disputes during a meeting with Vietnam’s newly appointed top leader, To Lam. The talks come amidst rising tensions in the disputed South China Sea.

Lam, who succeeded Nguyen Phu Trong last month as the general secretary of the ruling Vietnamese Communist Party, emphasized the importance of consolidating political mutual trust and strengthening security cooperation. The discussion also covered the need for better management and resolution of ongoing differences.

President Xi underscored the strategic significance of China-Vietnam relations and expressed a willingness to establish a strong working relationship with Lam. The bilateral talks come against the backdrop of escalating tensions involving multiple claimants in the South China Sea, including the Philippines and Vietnam, backed by major powers like the US and Japan.