China’s Premier Discusses Trade Relations in Vietnam Amid Disagreements over South China Sea
China’s premier has engaged in discussions with officials in Vietnam regarding trade relations between the two countries, despite ongoing disagreements over the handling of the South China Sea. During his official visit to Vietnam, Premier Li Qiang pledged China’s support for cross-border railway development in Vietnam and committed to expanding agricultural imports from the country, as reported by Vietnam’s official media.
Highlighting the significance of the trade partnership, Li stated that China would increase market access for high-quality fruits, seafood, and other Vietnamese products. China currently serves as Vietnam’s largest trading partner and its second-largest export market following the United States, with trade between the two nations reaching $172 billion in 2023.
Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam, emphasised the importance of the relationship between the two countries by making China his first overseas visit after assuming his post last year. Premier Li’s visit to Vietnam followed his meetings in neighbouring Laos, during which he opposed calls by Southeast Asian leaders to uphold international law in territorial disputes within the South China Sea.
In discussions with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, both sides agreed on the importance of respecting each other’s rights and interests, resolving disputes through peaceful means, and addressing issues related to fisheries and vessels. The talks come after Vietnam criticised China for an incident involving Chinese law enforcement personnel that resulted in injuries to Vietnamese fishers near the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea.
The United States has also expressed concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighting what he described as China’s “increasingly dangerous and unlawful” activities in the region. Despite these tensions, Chinh and Li agreed to enhance cooperation in diplomacy, national defense, and public security.
The two leaders oversaw the signing of 10 cooperation agreements, including the establishment of a working group to develop cross-border economic cooperation zones and the implementation of QR-code-based cross-border payment services. The agreements also included plans for improving railway connectivity between Vietnam and China.
In trade discussions, Vietnamese Prime Minister Chinh advocated for increased market access for products such as tropical fruits, meat, spiny lobsters, and traditional medicines. Premier Li expressed China’s readiness to address trade issues and collaborate with Vietnam on quarantine and customs procedures, according to Vietnamese reports.
The discussions between China and Vietnam aim to strengthen economic ties and address disagreements, particularly in the context of the South China Sea disputes that have raised international concerns. Both countries appear committed to finding mutually beneficial solutions to trade and cooperation challenges, despite existing tensions.