BEIJING: China and Vietnam signed 14 new agreements on Monday, spanning a diverse range of sectors from cross-border railway networks to crocodile exports, following a high-profile meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vietnam’s new leader, To Lam, in Beijing.
The agreements were formalized during Lam’s first overseas visit since his recent appointment as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The visit underscores both nations’ commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership, despite occasional tensions over maritime boundaries in the South China Sea.
Xi Jinping emphasized China’s commitment to nurturing strong ties with Vietnam. “China has always regarded Vietnam as a priority in its neighborhood diplomacy,” Xi said. “We support Vietnam in adhering to its Party leadership and advancing reforms and socialist modernization.”
To Lam, for his part, described the strengthened bilateral relations as a “top priority” for Vietnam. He termed his visit a testament to the Vietnamese government’s commitment to valuing its relationship with China.
The signed documents include plans for standardized railway routes to enhance cross-border rail connectivity. This initiative builds on preliminary agreements made during Xi’s state visit to Hanoi in December, where both nations committed to improving their rail links. Current connections between southern China and Vietnam’s northern industrial hub, Hanoi, rely on outdated infrastructure that requires switching trains at the border due to differing gauges.
The new agreements aim to modernize these rail links, potentially boosting trade and investment. As Chinese manufacturers increasingly shift operations to Vietnam amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States, improved rail infrastructure is expected to facilitate smoother and more efficient transportation of goods.
Furthermore, the two countries signed agreements covering various other sectors. These include cooperation between central banks, media exchanges, health collaboration, and the quarantine and inspection of agricultural products such as coconuts and durians, as well as crocodile exports.
Following the signing ceremony, Xi and Lam continued their discussions over tea, addressing key issues of mutual concern in a “cordial and friendly atmosphere,” according to Chinese official media Xinhua.
Lam’s visit began in Guangzhou, where he arrived on Sunday. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and other senior officials. His itinerary also includes visits to locations in China associated with former Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary activities.
The diplomatic relationship between China and Vietnam, which began in 1950, was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation in 2008 and further extended in 2013 to encompass a broader range of international and regional issues.
