Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Vietnam and met top leaders including Communist Party General Secretary To Lam and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.
- Xi emphasized opposition to “unilateral bullying” and called for joint efforts to uphold the global system of free trade, as reported by Chinese state media Xinhua.
- China and Vietnam signed 45 cooperation agreements during the visit, focusing on sectors such as supply chains, infrastructure, technology, and artificial intelligence.
- The visit underscores China’s strategic pivot towards deeper regional ties, especially amid escalating trade tensions with the United States.
- South East Asian nations like Vietnam have faced U.S. tariffs between 24% to 49%, which were temporarily paused for 90 days last week.
- China continues to be hit with steep U.S. tariffs, with a 145% levy now imposed on most of its exports to America.
- The agreements signed aim to enhance economic integration between China and Vietnam, reinforcing Beijing’s Belt and Road objectives and diversifying its trade routes.
- Xi’s remarks align with China’s broader narrative that portrays Western trade policies—especially from the U.S.—as protectionist and destabilizing.
- Xi is expected to depart Vietnam shortly for Malaysia, and will also visit Cambodia later this week to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties in the region.
- The timing of the visit is crucial, as Beijing seeks to bolster regional support amid mounting geopolitical and economic pressure from Washington.
For latest Business and Finance News subscribe to Globalfinserve, Click here.