Vietnamese Leader To Lam Begins First Official Visit to China

BEIJING — Vietnam's newly appointed leader, To Lam, has chosen China as the destination for his inaugural overseas visit, underscoring the significance of the relationship between the two nations. Lam's three-day trip, which began on Sunday, includes meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and visits to historical sites associated with Vietnam's former leader, Ho Chi Minh, in Guangzhou. This visit follows Lam's recent confirmation as general secretary of Vietnam's Communist Party, succeeding Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away last month. Despite strengthening ties with the United States and Japan, Vietnam continues to prioritize its relationship with China, its largest trading partner. The U.S. and Japan have been fostering closer relations with Vietnam, seeking allies amid rising tensions with China. In December, during Xi's visit to Vietnam, both countries agreed to build a "shared future," a move interpreted as a significant elevation of their diplomatic ties. Analysts suggest that Lam's choice of China for his first visit reflects Vietnam's commitment to balancing its foreign relations. Historically, Vietnam and China have experienced territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea, where both nations assert claims. However, economic cooperation remains strong, with many Chinese manufacturers relocating to Vietnam to circumvent U.S. trade restrictions. Lam's visit is expected to reinforce economic ties while navigating the complexities of regional geopolitics, as Vietnam seeks to maintain a delicate balance among its relationships with major powers.