U.S. President Joe Biden’s recent Hanoi visit aimed to deepen tech cooperation and counter China’s regional influence – but Vietnam remains committed to balancing relationships with both superpowers. Here’s the breakdown:
Biden’s Big Move in Hanoi 🇺🇸
The U.S. and Vietnam upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on September 10, focusing on AI, semiconductors, and workforce development. Biden touted this as a 'sustainable alternative' to Chinese investments, with bilateral trade hitting $138 billion in 2022.
Human Rights vs. Diplomacy ⚖️
Despite U.S. criticism of Vietnam’s human rights record – including allegations of unlawful killings – the two sides prioritized economic collaboration. Local experts question if Washington can truly deliver on promises of 'prosperity' given this friction.
Vietnam’s Tightrope Walk 🤸
While boosting U.S. ties, Vietnam reaffirmed China as its top foreign policy priority. Analysts say Hanoi’s playing the long game: leveraging U.S. tech while maintaining stable cross-border trade with its giant northern neighbor.
The Bigger Picture 🧩
Biden’s push mirrors Cold War-era strategies to reshape global economic alliances. But with Southeast Asian nations increasingly skeptical of picking sides, Vietnam’s 'multidirectional diplomacy' might be the region’s new playbook.
