Xi Jinping Forges Stronger Vietnam Ties Amid U.S. Trade Pressures

President Xi Jinping of China aims to strengthen economic ties with Vietnam amid U.S. tariff disputes during his Southeast Asia trip. Xi seeks collaboration in trade, supply chains, AI, and green economy with Vietnam, while boosting infrastructure, defense, and rail links.

China's President Xi Jinping initiated a push for stronger economic relations with Vietnam during his visit to Southeast Asia. As tariffs complicate China's trade landscape, Xi emphasizes the importance of partnering with Vietnam on trade and supply chain logistics.

The bilateral discussions in Hanoi are set against the backdrop of ongoing U.S. tariffs on China while Vietnam negotiates its own tariff reductions with Washington. Vietnam's strategic geographical and economic position makes it an important ally for China, ensuring the flow of goods and countering protectionist measures.

Xi's diplomatic engagements in Vietnam include agreements on rail infrastructure, defense, and strengthening ties in AI and the green economy. However, despite growing ties, challenges persist in trade disagreements and regional security issues, notably in the South China Sea. Meanwhile, Vietnam's concessions to the U.S. market, such as the deployment of Starlink and anti-dumping duties on Chinese goods, add complexity to its relations with Beijing.

(With inputs from agencies.)