American President Joe Biden begins his second day of visit to Vietnam on Monday, September 11. The two countries signed a “ strategic partnership “. Both worried about China’s growing influence in the region, the United States and Vietnam are seeking closer trade ties.
2 mins
With our correspondent in Ho Chi Minh City, Frederic Black
Vietnam has therefore decided to take the plunge and award the United States the status of strategic partner, the highest rank in the diplomatic sphere. A status that Vietnam previously reserved for four other countries: Russia, India, South Korea and China. A highly symbolic announcement, accompanied by a series of commercial agreements, particularly in the semiconductor sector.
Washington thinks that Vietnam could be a replacement or second-rate Asian market for its interests in the area to overcome its difficulties with the Chinese
Vietnam: Washington’s interests for a growing market
On the sensitive subject of human rights, mentioned in the final communiqué, no one expected great progress. In the end, Vietnam was content to release a political opponent. The defense of human rights has long been a line of conduct for American interests in Vietnam, but it is to be feared that it will be less defended, recognizes Benoît de Trègulode, director of research at the Institute for Strategic Research of the ‘military school. ” Washington will be less aggressive on human rights issues.” And especially since “we are in a one-party regime headed by the general secretary of the vietnamese communist party who is himself at the end of his mandate. So in a mandate where the stability of power is a central issue: any threat of destabilization… is unthinkable.” And the fight against corruption (corruption which exists) is a formidable weapon in the service of power.
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But beyond the various announcements of goodwill and cooperation, no one is fooled: the American objective is indeed to counter Chinese territorial ambitions in the China Sea. A crucial subject for Vietnam, which regularly denounces incursions by Chinese ships into its exclusive zone.
It was great to speak with you, General Secretary.
As I said earlier, Vietnam and the United States have an enormous opportunity to be critical partners. I know we can achieve the aspiration both countries share for a future of greater peace, security, and prosperity. pic.twitter.com/ctifi8lm3l
— President Biden (@POTUS) September 10, 2023
Hanoi is also careful not to alienate its big neighbour, faithful to its so-called “bamboo” diplomacy, which the Secretary General of the Communist Party, Nguyen Phu Trong, himself defined: “ Strong roots, strong trunks but flexible branches. In short, a balancing act, Vietnam wanting to be a reliable partner for the United States, while sparing China, its first trading partner.