Vietnam's Strategic Dance: Navigating Relations with China and the US

Vietnam has hosted the leaders of both China and the US this year, highlighting its rise from poverty and war. Chinese paramount leader Xi Jinping's visit to Vietnam marked a milestone in bilateral relations, with the two countries announcing the establishment of a strategic "community of shared future." Vietnam is pursuing a multi-alignment strategy, strengthening ties with Japan and the US while engaging with China. The economic relationship between Vietnam and China is crucial, with Vietnam relying on Chinese raw materials and technology. However, Vietnam remains cautious about its more powerful neighbor and is committed to protecting its national interests, including territorial integrity in the South China Sea.