Of all the Southeast Asian nations balancing relations between Beijing and Washington, arguably none has as fine a line to navigate as Vietnam. The country’s strategic importance to both puts it at the centre of their rivalry, necessitating an independent position and promoting good relations. That was apparent in recent talks between State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Vietnamese counterpart, Bui Thanh Son, on the sidelines of a Mekong River cooperation meeting in Myanmar. Their discussions were cordial, with an emphasis on the need to work together for stability, development and prosperity.

Disputes over trade and territory in the South China Sea rich in fish, oil and gas have long marred relations. Wang, in observing the socialist values shared by their communist governments and common strategic interests, highlighted the gains to be made from China’s “high-value opening up” and stressed the need to maintain communications. Son said Beijing was Hanoi’s top diplomatic priority, but he also called for favourable conditions for Vietnamese exports and a resumption of commercial flights affected by the pandemic. With China being Vietnam’s biggest trading partner and a major supplier of materials, it has been careful not to upset ties.

China and Vietnam vow to talk more but obstacles remain in relationship

Such is also the case between Hanoi and Washington. Vietnam has been accused by the United States of many of the same claimed violations of rights and freedoms as China and is involved in trade and currency disputes. Hanoi, like Beijing, has refused to condemn Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine. But it has largely avoided American tariffs, sanctions and other punishments.