President Xi Jinping Set To Make a Possible Visit to Hanoi
China and Vietnam To Bolster
Overt Operator
October 10, 2023
Hanoi - Recent report by Reuters, preparations are underway for a possible visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Hanoi at the end of October or early November. The visit, if confirmed, would mark Xi's first state visit to Vietnam since 2017 and is seen as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.
Four sources familiar with the plans have revealed that the Chinese government has already dispatched a team to Hanoi to arrange accommodations for Xi's delegation.
This move indicates the seriousness of the visit and the desire to ensure a smooth and successful trip.
Additionally, discussions are underway between Hanoi and Beijing to draft a joint statement that would be issued during the visit, further cementing the commitment to cooperation and mutual understanding.
One key aspect of the joint statement that has been discussed is the inclusion of the phrase "community of common destiny." This phrase, popularized during Xi's tenure, represents the highest level of bilateral relations for the Xi Jinping administration. China has already formed similar "communities of common destiny" with Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.
However, Vietnamese officials have expressed caution about including this reference in the joint statement, highlighting their desire to carefully consider the implications and potential consequences of such a declaration.
The visit comes on the heels of U.S. President Joe Biden's recent visit to Hanoi, which took place last month. This exchange of high-level visits signals the growing importance of Vietnam in the geopolitical landscape, as both China and the United States vie for influence in the region.
The potential visit by Xi Jinping also holds significant economic implications. Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia and has seen a surge in foreign investment in recent years. Strengthening ties with China, its largest trading partner, could lead to increased economic opportunities for both countries.
While the exact dates of the visit have yet to be confirmed, the preparations being made by both sides indicate a strong possibility of President Xi's arrival in Hanoi later this month or early next. The visit will provide an opportunity for both nations to deepen their cooperation and discuss issues of mutual interest, including trade, regional security, and the ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
As the visit draws nearer, all eyes will be on Hanoi to see how the joint statement and discussions unfold. The outcome of this visit could have far-reaching implications for the future of Vietnam-China relations and the geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.
President Xi Jinping's potential visit to Vietnam underscores the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. As preparations continue and discussions for a joint statement progress, the visit holds promise for enhanced cooperation and economic opportunities. The outcome of this visit will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of Vietnam-China relations.