In a strategic move aimed at countering China's influence, President Joe Biden has fostered a "strategic partnership" with the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV).
This partnership is set to bolster Vietnam's capabilities in artificial intelligence and semiconductor production, as reported by Politico.
The agreement follows Biden's August meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol at Camp David. The leaders convened to address escalating tensions among their nations, North Korea, and China.
However, Scot Marciel, a former principal deputy assistant secretary for East Asia and the Pacific at the State Department, clarified Vietnam's stance to Politico. He stated, "Vietnam is not aligning with the U.S. against China. Theyre happy to improve relations with the U.S., but it doesnt mean theyre moving against China theyre going to continue to calibrate very carefully."
Biden's recent visit to Hanoi, Vietnam, saw him meeting with General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. According to a White House statement, the leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties, expanding education exchanges and workforce development programs, and addressing climate change.
The U.S.-Vietnam relationship has been on an upward trajectory since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1995.
Politico reported that former President Barack Obama further cemented this relationship in 2013 by signing a partnership deal aimed at enhancing Vietnams coast guard assistance and cooperation on anti-transnational crime operations.
Despite its growing ties with the U.S., Vietnam maintains a cordial relationship with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Politico noted that Vietnam signed a partnership to boost bilateral relations with China in 1998. Additionally, Vietnam established a similar partnership with Russia over a decade ago.
This strategic partnership with Vietnam signifies a crucial step in President Biden's foreign policy, demonstrating his commitment to fostering alliances in the face of rising global tensions.
However, it is clear that Vietnam is carefully balancing its relationships with both the U.S. and China, indicating the complexity of geopolitical dynamics in the region.
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