U.S. President Joe Biden arrives in Vietnam to strengthen ties amid China’s rise in the region.
The Air Force One touched down in Hanoi after Biden participated in the G20 summit in India.
Biden plans to meet with Vietnam’s Communist Party leader, Nguyen Phu Trong.
They’re expected to sign an “expanded strategic alliance,” the highest level of diplomatic engagement for Vietnam.
Biden’s visit has multiple goals, including gathering support against China.
According to Jon Finer, a U.S. National Security advisor, announcements about cooperation in the semiconductor sector are anticipated.
Vietnam aims to stay neutral between the U.S. and China. Yet it shares Washington’s concerns about China’s disputed South China Sea claims.
Trade between the U.S. and Vietnam is on the rise. Washington sees Vietnam as key to lessening its dependence on China after years of supply chain issues.
Before Biden’s arrival, reports said Vietnam is secretly negotiating a new arms deal with Russia.
Ties with Russia
Finer acknowledged the decades-long military ties between Russia and Vietnam but suggested that Vietnam is growing uneasy with this relationship.
Washington can help Vietnam diversify its partnerships, Finer said.
On Monday, Biden will meet Vietnam’s President Vo Van Thuong and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.
Flags of both nations decorate the area around Hoan Kiem Lake in central Hanoi. Nearby, a shop sells T-shirts featuring Biden’s face.
“I think Biden’s visit will bring more business deals and jobs for Vietnam’s people,” said shop owner Truong Thanh Duc.
Human rights are a concern during Biden’s visit. Critics of Vietnam’s government face threats and prison terms after unfair trials.
Activists worry Biden might not address these issues.
Biden’s Vietnam visit comes just after a U.S. commission criticized Vietnam for “persistent” religious freedom violations.
Nguyen Bac Truyen
Nguyen Bac Truyen, a lawyer sentenced in 2018 for subversion, was recently freed and allowed to travel to Germany with his wife.
To attend the Hanoi visit, Biden left the G20 summit early.
His agenda includes visiting a memorial to his late friend John McCain, who fought in the Vietnam War and later helped mend U.S.-Vietnam relations.
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