Vietnam’s new leader has arrived in China on his first overseas trip since taking the helm

BEIJING: Vietnamese leader To Lam started a three-day visit to China on Sunday in his first overseas trip since assuming his country’s top post about two weeks ago. During this Vietnam leader China visit, high-level meetings and discussions are expected to address various mutual interests. #VietnamLeaderChinaVisit

Lam arrived in the morning in Guangzhou, an industrial hub near Hong Kong. Chinese state media reported his visit. His agenda included touring sites in the city where former Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh had spent time.

He is to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and other senior officials during his trip.

Lam was confirmed as general secretary of Vietnam’s Communist Party on August 3. He has held the ceremonial title of president since May. Lam succeeded Nguyen Phu Trong, who died on July 19 after 13 years in the role.

The new leader is expected to continue balancing ties with China, the United States, and Russia. Yu Xiangdong, from Zhengzhou University, noted this strategy. This assessment was published Saturday in the Global Times.

“The fact that Lam chose China as his first overseas visit destination since taking office is a sign that Vietnam attaches great importance to its relations with China,” Yu said in an opinion piece. “But at the same time, judging from experience, the country is not by any means going to give the US the cold shoulder.”

Moreover, the visit underlines Vietnam’s commitment to enhancing strategic partnerships in the region. It reflects Vietnam’s proactive stance in international relations, especially with China. Consequently, the Vietnam leader China visit could pave the way for more collaborative efforts and joint initiatives between the two countries. #VietnamLeaderChinaVisit
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