US President Joe Biden’s visit to Vietnam has culminated in a “comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two countries, elevating their diplomatic relations to the highest level in Hanoi. The visit aimed to bolster support against China’s expanding diplomatic influence while securing strategic resources from friendly nations.
During his meeting with Nguyen Phu Trong, the leader of Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party, Biden expressed optimism about enhancing cooperation and referred to Vietnam and the United States as critical partners during a pivotal period.
The agreement establishes the United States as an equal partner with China, Russia, India, and South Korea in Vietnam’s diplomatic hierarchy.
One of the key areas of cooperation is the development of resilient semiconductor supply chains, as semiconductor technology is crucial for various industries, including smartphones and electric car batteries.
Furthermore, the talks encompassed the supply of rare earth minerals, essential for advanced technologies, and Vietnam, with the world’s second-largest deposits of rare earths after China, plays a vital role in diversifying supply sources away from China.
Biden’s administration has recently restricted US investments in Chinese technology, particularly in sensitive areas like semiconductors and artificial intelligence.
While Vietnam maintains a neutral stance between the United States and China, it shares concerns about China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes persist.
Notably, ahead of Biden’s visit, reports emerged that Vietnam was covertly negotiating arms purchases from Russia, which could violate US sanctions. The Vietnamese government has yet to comment on these reports.
Washington acknowledges Vietnam’s long-standing military relationship with Russia, but the new strategic partnership aims to help Vietnam diversify its defense partnerships by allowing it to source from the United States and its allies.
Biden also discussed human rights during his meeting with Trong, highlighting areas of concern. Vietnam has faced criticism for its human rights record, including issues related to government critics, harassment, imprisonment, and police conduct.
In addition to diplomatic matters, Biden’s visit included a visit to a memorial honoring John McCain, the former US senator who played a significant role in rebuilding ties between the United States and Vietnam, having been shot down and held captive during the Vietnam War.
Overall, the visit signifies the deepening of cooperation between the United States and Vietnam, particularly in areas of strategic significance and economic collaboration.
