In a significant move to strengthen regional ties, China and Vietnam have agreed to advance their longstanding friendship and deepen cooperation across various fields. The announcement came during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam, where both nations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other’s socialist paths suited to their national conditions.
The two countries released a joint statement highlighting their intention to elevate strategic mutual trust to new heights. Emphasizing solidarity, the Vietnamese side reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China policy, acknowledging that there is only one China in the world, that the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. Vietnam supports the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and China’s cause of national reunification, firmly opposing any form of “Taiwan independence” separatist activities.
China and Vietnam agreed to build a more extensive and in-depth all-round cooperation pattern. They plan to accelerate the synergy between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Vietnam’s “Two Corridors and One Economic Circle” strategy. Prioritizing infrastructure connectivity, both nations aim to boost railway, expressway, and port projects to enhance trade and travel between them.
The two sides are also focusing on expanding economic ties. China is set to promote access for Vietnamese agricultural products like citrus fruits and herbal medicines, while Vietnam will expedite the import of sturgeon from China. Additionally, they agreed to develop international railway transport and increase cross-border train services, encouraging airlines to resume and add flights based on market needs.
On maritime issues, China and Vietnam pledged to handle and resolve differences through friendly consultations, striving to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. They emphasized not taking actions that could complicate situations or escalate disputes, adhering to international laws such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
By consolidating public support and enhancing multilateral strategic coordination, China and Vietnam are poised to build a stronger community with a shared future, bringing mutual benefits to both nations and contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
