President Joe Biden met with Vietnamese President To Lam to deepen relations with the Southeast Asian country and counter its ties with China and Russia. The two leaders discussed accelerating their strategic partnership and highlighted investments in semiconductors, cybersecurity, and supply chains. They also affirmed commitments to freedom of navigation and the rule of law amidst regional maritime disputes with China.
Lam emphasized Vietnam’s pursuit of a new era of development and its commitment to independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, and diversification in foreign policy. He engaged with U.S. companies, including Meta, to expand investments in Vietnam and called for the removal of trade restrictions and cooperation on semiconductor supply chains.
Biden’s visit to Hanoi last year resulted in deals on semiconductors, minerals, and an upgrade in diplomatic ties, despite concerns about human rights issues in Vietnam. U.S. Rep. Michelle Steel urged Biden to address human rights abuses under Lam’s leadership.
The meeting between Biden and Lam also addressed economic cooperation, Vietnam’s complex neighborhood dynamics, and the country’s cautious strategic approach in the region. The meeting was seen as an opportunity for Lam to consolidate power and assert Vietnam’s balanced position between major powers like China and Russia.
Vietnam has been pushing for removal from the non-market economy label, arguing that it hinders bilateral ties with the U.S. Despite this, experts suggest that the decision lies with the Commerce Department and that Vietnam’s actions must match its policy commitments to warrant such concessions. Critics argue that Vietnam is becoming a manufacturing hub for Chinese firms to bypass U.S. import restrictions.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com