HCMC – Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for the prioritization of three standard-gauge railway projects connecting Vietnam with China to enhance trade ties between the two countries.
Chinh made the proposal during a meeting with China’s Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS+ Summit in Russia, reported the Government news website (baochinhphu.vn).
The proposed rail links would connect Lao Cai-Hanoi-Haiphong, Lang Son-Hanoi, and Mong Cai-Halong-Haiphong. Chinh said that completing these routes would significantly boost trade and strengthen connectivity between the two economies.
In response, President Xi expressed support for expanding cooperation with Vietnam and assured that Chinese authorities would work to improve transport links between the two nations.
On the same day, Chinh also held meetings with leaders from Turkey, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Laos. In discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Chinh encouraged increased Turkish investment in Vietnam, and both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, and defense, with a goal of reaching US$4 billion in bilateral trade.
During his meeting with Laos’ Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, Chinh reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to supporting Laos in overcoming its challenges. The two leaders agreed to advance major economic projects and expand collaboration in security and trade.
The BRICS+ Summit, attended by leaders of BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa—and new members Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, seeks to promote a more balanced global political and economic order.
The bloc represents about 37% of global GDP and nearly half of the world’s population. Leaders from over 30 guest countries and several international organizations are also attending the summit.
