Vietnam’s political power is traditionally shared among the president and prime minister, general secretary of the Communist Party, and chair of the National Assembly. Lam currently holds two of these positions and serves as the nation’s highest military official. With a background in the public security apparatus, Lam quickly rose through the ranks from chief policeman to president and party general secretary in less than three months. His recent diplomatic engagement included hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hanoi, highlighting the strong historical ties between Russia and Vietnam.
Economic ties between Vietnam and China are robust, with China being Vietnam’s largest trading partner. However, Vietnam’s exports to China are significantly lower than imports, indicating a reliance on Chinese goods. During Lam’s upcoming visit to Beijing, analysts believe he will focus on establishing a personal rapport with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, discussing the trade deficit, and ensuring a more balanced trade volume between the two countries. This visit is seen as a milestone in Vietnam-China relations and could shape the future of economic cooperation between the two nations.
Tensions in the South China Sea have been a point of contention between Vietnam and China, with a recent territorial dispute sparking anti-China protests in Vietnam. Despite this, observers note that Vietnam has continued construction in the area without interference from China. Lam’s visit to Beijing is expected to address managing the maritime dispute and ensuring peaceful relations between the two nations. This visit is crucial in navigating the complex geopolitics of the South China Sea and maintaining stability in the region.
Amid the rivalry between China and the United States, Vietnam aims to strike a balance in its relationships with both countries. Lam’s visit to China will be closely watched by the domestic public, which holds deep mistrust of China due to historical conflicts. Many in Vietnam express a desire to maintain friendship with China while being prepared to defend their sovereignty if necessary. Balancing relations with both China and the United States is essential for Vietnam’s security and development, as the country seeks to ensure peace and stability in the region for its own interests and those of its citizens.
Overall, Lam’s rise to power signals a new era in Vietnamese leadership, with a focus on economic cooperation, managing territorial disputes, and balancing relations with major global powers. His visit to China is seen as a pivotal moment in shaping Vietnam-China relations and addressing regional tensions. As Vietnam navigates the complex geopolitics of the South China Sea and maintains a delicate balance between major powers, Lam’s leadership will be crucial in shaping the country’s foreign policy and ensuring stability in the region.
