Brian Jeffrey
This is Premier Li Qiang’s inaugural visit to Vietnam, following previous engagements in both bilateral and multilateral contexts with the country’s leaders.
The visit comes on the heels of a successful trip to China by General Secretary and President To Lam and his wife in mid-August.
In a message of congratulations for the 75th anniversary of China’s National Day (October 1, 1949 – October 1, 2024), leaders from Vietnam highlighted their ongoing commitment to fostering a stable, friendly, and productive relationship with China. They view this partnership as a key strategic choice and a significant priority within Vietnam’s independent and diverse foreign policy.
Vietnam’s leadership has reiterated its intention to collaborate with senior Chinese officials to ensure consistent dialogue, strengthen the strategic framework of their partnership, and promote enduring friendship between both nations. Their goals include enhancing mutual understanding among their citizens and advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership for a more profound and effective future together.
Since the beginning of 2024, the two countries have seen a positive trajectory in their relationship, with strong cooperation spanning various sectors. Both parties recognize that their ties have reached an unprecedented depth and breadth.
Economic relations, particularly trade and investment, have flourished, with China emerging as one of Vietnam’s leading trade and investment partners. Recent challenges have been tackled effectively.
In the first half of 2024, trade volume surged by 24.1% compared to the same time in 2023, totaling $94.5 billion. China continues to be the top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam, with 447 new projects contributing nearly $1.3 billion in registered capital.
Agricultural collaboration has progressed, with both nations finalizing processes to officially export various Vietnamese agricultural products to China, including frozen durian, fresh coconuts, fresh chili, and passion fruit.
Defense and security cooperation has expanded through multiple channels, with new mechanisms being set up and activated.
Cultural exchanges have thrived, with significant travel between the two countries. In the first seven months of 2024, over 2.1 million Chinese tourists visited Vietnam, positioning China as the second-largest source of international visitors to the country.
