HCMC – Vietnamese President To Lam met with Chinese Ambassador Xiong Bo at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi on Tuesday, June 11.
At the meeting, President Lam conveyed Vietnam’s commitment to maintaining regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.
He emphasized the longstanding historical ties between Vietnam and China, referring to their relationship as “both comrades and brothers.” He noted that this friendship, built by former leaders Ho Chi Minh and Mao Zedong, is a valuable asset.
He stressed that enhancing relations with China is a strategic priority for Vietnam. He highlighted the significance of Ambassador Xiong Bo’s contributions to bilateral ties.
Ambassador Xiong congratulated Lam on his election to Presidency and reiterated China’s commitment to a friendly and comprehensive partnership with Vietnam. He said that China supports Vietnam’s stability and rapid development, as outlined in the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
The two sides acknowledged the progress in bilateral relations, particularly following the recent visits by General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to China in October 2022 and President Xi Jinping to Vietnam in December 2023.
Lam also urged China to expand market access for Vietnamese agricultural products, livestock, and poultry.
He emphasized the need for practical collaboration in areas such as cross-border railway connections and standard-gauge railway development in northern Vietnam.
Regarding the East Sea, Lam called for adherence to high-level agreements and international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982, to manage and resolve maritime disputes.
He proposed efforts to elevate bilateral ties ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025.
