WNAM REPORT: The official visit to Vietnam from October 12-14 by Premier Li Qiang not only continues the high-level exchanges between China and Vietnam, but also marks a new starting point for future cooperation between the two countries, according to journalist Qiao Jun, an expert on Vietnam at China Media Group (CMG).
Li’s trip takes place in the context that China and Vietnam are to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025, and the building of a Vietnam-China community with a shared future which carries strategic significance will be elevated to a new level, Qiao said.
It is of important significance in further deepening the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future, as this is the first visit to Vietnam by the premier since he assumed office in March 2023.
During his stay in Hanoi, Li will meet with Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, hold talks with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and meet with National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.
The two sides will exchange views on many important issues, with focus on implementing the key common perceptions achieved by the highest leaders of the two countries and further promoting the construction of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future.
Journalist Qiao said that during this visit, railway cooperation may remain a key focus, with the two sides promoting collaboration to soon implement railway projects such as Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong, Lang Son – Hanoi, and Mong Cai – Ha Long – Hanoi. For Vietnam, the completion of these projects will significantly improve domestic transportation infrastructure, reduce logistics costs, boost trade with China, and provide strong momentum for the development of Vietnam’s economy.
Additionally, the two sides will actively discuss and expand cooperation and connectivity between the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative and the ‘Two Corridors, One Belt’ framework; accelerate the establishment of ‘hard connectivity’ through railways, roads, and border gates, while enhancing ‘soft connectivity’ through smart customs, along with building a stable and secure industrial and supply chains.
