At the 2025 Summer Davos in Tianjin, Chinese premier Li Qiang and Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed a 75-year friendship that has grown into a comprehensive strategic partnership. In a meeting against a backdrop of global uncertainties, both leaders emphasized unity and mutual support to navigate shifting economic and geopolitical landscapes.
Li highlighted the success of general secretary Xi Jinping's recent visit to Vietnam, noting that both sides are moving swiftly to implement key outcomes for shared prosperity. He called for deeper strategic communication and collaboration, saying that reinforcing the bond of 'comrades and brothers' will benefit not just their nations but the wider region and beyond.
Looking to the future, China and Vietnam agreed to align development strategies and synchronize the Belt and Road Initiative with the Two Corridors and One Economic Circle plan. Priority sectors include artificial intelligence, the digital economy and green development, where both governments hope to spark new drivers of growth.
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges also took centre stage. Li announced a series of activities for the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchange, covering culture, tourism, education and media, to lift mutual understanding and grassroots ties.
The meeting underscored a shared vision of open, multipolar globalization. China welcomed Vietnam as a prospective BRICS partner country, and both leaders pledged to champion free trade, a robust multilateral trading system, and inclusive economic globalization.
Prime minister Pham reaffirmed Vietnam's support for the three major global initiatives proposed by President Xi, and pledged to deepen high-level exchanges and practical cooperation. He stressed the importance of defending multilateralism and working together on common interests.
As global headwinds grow, this renewed Sino-Vietnamese cooperation signals a commitment to stability, sustainable development and regional integration. Young entrepreneurs, tech innovators and travellers alike will be watching how these ties translate into real-world projects and new opportunities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
