"Xi Jinping's Visit to Vietnam: Limited Impact on US Relations and South China Sea Situation"

The United States has stated that its relationship with Vietnam will continue to be closely cooperative despite Hanoi's recent strengthening of ties with China, including in defense and security. While concerns have been raised about the impact on US plans to deepen relations with Vietnam, the US embassy in Hanoi emphasized that their partnership is not about any third country. Vietnam and China's joint declaration included commitments to enhanced security cooperation, including in defense industries and logistics, but experts believe this is unlikely to affect defense cooperation between the US and Vietnam. Vietnam's diplomatic pronouncements may differ from its actual security concerns, as it seeks a balance between placating Beijing's expectations and addressing the threat China poses, particularly in the South China Sea.