Vietnam PM, Chinese Top Legislator Pledge to Deepen Strategic Ties

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) of China on May 8th as Vietnam and China are committed to strengthening their already robust relationship, the two countries' leaders affirmed this week.

High-level meetings took place during the week-long commemoration of the battle of Dien Bien Phu, a pivotal Vietnamese victory that hastened the end of French colonial rule.

Prime Minister Chinh emphasized Vietnam's view of China as a vital strategic partner and a top foreign policy priority.

The two leaders hailed the current state of relations, noting that ties have “never developed as deeply, comprehensively and substantively as they are today.”

This warm assessment follows a series of reciprocal visits by the countries’ top leaders, which have helped chart a new direction for the bilateral relationship.

Trade and Infrastructure

The two sides pledged to boost economic ties, which have grown rapidly in recent years. China is Vietnam’s top trade partner, while Vietnam is China’s largest trading partner within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Prime Minister Chinh urged greater efforts to streamline cross-border trade and logistical bottlenecks. Specific goals include expanding highway and railway links between the countries’ border provinces, and establishing “smart border gates” with streamlined customs and immigration procedures.

In addition, Vietnam seeks deeper cooperation with China on emerging technologies and industries, including digital transformation, green development initiatives, and the exploration of strategic minerals.

Mr. Chinh and Mr. Zhang Qingwei both voiced support for continued dialogue to manage disputes, stressing the importance of preventing them from undermining the overall bilateral relationship.

A Shared History

The high-level meetings occurred against the backdrop of the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Battle of Dien Bien Phu. Zhang Qingwei, leading the Chinese delegation, lauded the Vietnamese victory for contributing to the end of colonialism worldwide.

The Vietnamese prime minister recalled China’s significant support during Vietnam’s struggle for independence from France, underscoring the historical ties between the two communist neighbors.

The anniversary events and the high-level talks underscore both the deepening ties between China and Vietnam, and their desire to ensure stability in a relationship that is vital to both nations.

The emphasis on dialogue and cooperation reflects a commitment to maintaining a focus on the strategic partnership, even as potential points of friction remain.