Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)
HANOI, April 14 (Xinhua) — Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday called for deepening the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.
Xi made the remarks when meeting with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee To Lam during his state visit to Vietnam.
Xi pointed out that he was very pleased to pay a state visit to Vietnam and realize the first round of mutual visits with General Secretary To Lam.
This year marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPV, the 80th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South, he said, extending warm congratulations to Vietnam on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese government.
China will, as always, support Vietnam in taking a socialist path that suits its national conditions, successfully holding the 14th National Congress of the CPV in 2026, and its steadfast pursuit of realizing the two goals set for the centenary of the party and the country.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, as well as the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges, said Xi, stressing that over the past 75 years, regardless of changes in the international landscape, China and Vietnam have supported each other in the struggle for national independence and liberation, advanced side by side in the cause of socialist development, and forged ahead in their respective modernization endeavors, setting an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries.
Facing the changing and turbulent world, China and Vietnam have stayed committed to peaceful development and deepened their friendly cooperation, bringing much-needed stability and certainty to the world, Xi said.
Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should build on past achievements, forge ahead together and carry forward the profound traditional friendship featuring “camaraderie plus brotherhood,” said Xi.
Guided by the overall goals of achieving higher political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, stronger public support, closer multilateral coordination and better management and resolution of differences, the two countries should work to advance their comprehensive strategic cooperation with high quality, ensure steady and sustained progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, and contribute even more to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi said.
Building the China-Vietnam community with a shared future carries great global significance, Xi said, noting that as the two countries jointly pursue peaceful development, their combined population of over 1.5 billion is jointly advancing toward modernization, which will contribute to regional and global peace and stability while promoting common development.
Both countries are committed to opening up and have played a constructive role in maintaining the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, as well as contributing to the advancement of economic globalization, Xi said.
A small boat with a lone sail cannot withstand rough seas, Xi said, noting that only by working together in the same boat can they ensure stability and long-term progress.
He noted that both China and Vietnam are beneficiaries of economic globalization, and the two sides should strengthen strategic resolve, jointly oppose unilateralism and bullying practices, and work together to uphold the global free trade system and maintain the stability of industrial and supply chains.
Xi proposed six measures to deepen the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future.
First, enhance strategic mutual trust at a higher level.
Leaders of the two parties and countries should communicate with each other as relatives, Xi said, noting the two sides should give full play to the role of channels including inter-party, legislative bodies and political consultative organizations, deepen the exchange of experience in governance, and improve the leadership of the two parties in promoting national modernization.
Second, build a stronger security barrier.
The two sides should set the “3+3” strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense and public security between the two countries at the ministerial level to enhance strategic coordination.
It is necessary to give full play to the role of defense and law enforcement security cooperation mechanisms, resolutely tackle online gambling, telecom fraud and other cross-border crimes, strengthen bilateral and multilateral law enforcement and judicial cooperation, especially within the framework of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, so as to safeguard people’s lives and property and uphold regional peace and stability.
Third, expand higher quality mutually beneficial cooperation.
Seize the major opportunities of China’s new quality productive forces and Vietnam’s new productive forces to accelerate the formation of practical cooperation between the two countries. Realize the comprehensive connection of standard-gauge railways, highways, and smart ports at an early date. Promote high-tech cooperation such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. China’s mega market is always open to Vietnam, and the country welcomes more high-quality Vietnamese products. China encourages its companies to invest in Vietnam and hopes that Vietnam will create a more fair and friendly business environment.
Fourth, tighten the bonds of people-to-people ties.
China and Vietnam should take the China-Vietnam Year of People-to-People Exchanges as an opportunity and organize more people-oriented exchange activities, and enhance cooperation in tourism, culture, media, public health and other fields.
The two sides should continue to explore resources of revolutionary heritage and promote stories of friendship. In the next three years, China will invite Vietnamese youth to China for “Red Study Tours,” which will help the younger generation of both countries better understand the hard-won nature of the socialist countries and the great value of China-Vietnam good-neighborliness and friendly cooperation, and will cultivate greater vitality for the development of bilateral relations and the respective national development endeavors.
Fifth, conduct closer multilateral coordination.
China and Vietnam should jointly uphold the outcomes of World War II, firmly safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, promote a more equal and orderly multi-polar world and an economic globalization that is more inclusive and beneficial for all, and enhance cooperation under the frameworks of the three major global initiatives.
China will stay committed to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and to the policy of pursuing friendship and partnership with its neighbors. It will deepen friendly cooperation with neighboring countries so that the fruits of Chinese modernization can better benefit the region.
Sixth, achieve more positive maritime interaction.
The two countries should earnestly implement the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries, properly manage maritime issues, expand maritime cooperation, demonstrate resolve in launching joint development, and work toward the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
For his part, To Lam extended a warm welcome to Xi on his state visit to Vietnam, which took place on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He said that Xi is not only an outstanding leader of the Chinese people but also a great friend of the Vietnamese people.
Xi’s choice to make Vietnam his first overseas destination this year fully reflects the importance he attaches to China-Vietnam relations and his support for Vietnam, the Vietnamese leader said. This visit will mark a new milestone in the history of friendly exchanges between the two parties and countries, further advancing the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, he added.
Under Xi’s strong leadership, To Lam noted, China has achieved historic accomplishments in advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics, made comprehensive progress in its path to modernization, and witnessed rapid development of new quality productive forces. With China’s international stature on the rise, Vietnam extends its congratulations and expresses gratitude for China’s long-standing support and assistance, he said.
Emphasizing that both Vietnam and China are socialist countries under the leadership of a communist party, To Lam said that developing relations with China is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority for Vietnam. Vietnam firmly adheres to the one-China policy, supports China’s efforts toward national reunification, and resolutely opposes any separatist actions aimed at “Taiwan independence,” he said.
Advancing Vietnam-China relations, To Lam noted, is in the fundamental interest of both peoples and conforms with the trend of the times. Vietnam looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two parties and countries, enhancing exchanges on governance experience, deepening strategic security cooperation, and continually consolidating political mutual trust; further elevating bilateral cooperation by creating new highlights in areas such as trade, science and technology, infrastructure and environmental protection; and promoting people-to-people exchanges, encouraging local and youth interactions, and enhancing tourism cooperation to nurture closer bonds between the peoples, he said.
Vietnam supports the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind and the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi, To Lam said. Vietnam lauds the vision set forth during the CPC’s central conference on work related to neighboring countries, which envisions building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful and amicable home with neighboring countries and insists on fostering friendly, mutually beneficial and prosperous relationships, he said.
Vietnam is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, uphold multilateralism and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguard international trade rules, abide by the agreements signed by both sides, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and human progress, To Lam said, adding that Vietnam is also willing to properly address maritime differences with China to ensure maritime stability.
Before the talks, To Lam invited Xi to a small-group chat over tea. The two general secretaries exchanged views on party building and national governance. Xi stressed that party building is crucial to the destiny of the party and the country, and that the party’s work style bears on whether it can win public support. The CPC Central Committee has decided to carry out an in-depth campaign throughout the party this year to learn and implement the spirit of the eight-point decision on improving work conduct. This is intended to secure new achievements in work style transformation to further support comprehensive reform and advance modernization. Both general secretaries agreed to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning, and pursue progress in socialist development.
After the talks, the two leaders witnessed the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by China and Vietnam. These documents cover areas including connectivity, artificial intelligence, customs inspection and quarantine, agricultural trade, culture and sports, public welfare, human resource development, media, and more.

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, holds talks with To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, invites Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, to a small chat over tea before their talks at the CPV Central Committee headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, and To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, witness the display of 45 bilateral cooperation documents signed by the two sides after their talks in Hanoi, Vietnam, April 14, 2025. Xi held talks with To Lam at the CPV Central Committee headquarters on Monday. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
date:2025-04-15 02:57:00
Table of Contents
- Xi Jinping Calls for Deepening China-Vietnam Community with Shared Future
- The Vision of a Shared Future: Key Pillars
- Economic Cooperation: The Engine of growth
- Political Trust and Strategic Alignment
- the South China Sea Context
- Cultural Exchange and People-to-People Connections
- Security Cooperation: Addressing Shared Threats
- Benefits and Practical Tips for Individuals
- First-Hand Experiences: Stories from the Ground
- The Future Trajectory of China-Vietnam Relations
President Xi Jinping’s recent emphasis on building a “community with a shared future” between China and vietnam underscores the growing strategic importance of this bilateral relationship. This call for deepened cooperation spans numerous sectors, from economic development and trade to political trust and cultural exchange. Understanding the nuances of this initiative is crucial for grasping the evolving dynamics of southeast Asia and the broader geopolitical landscape. Let’s delve into the key aspects of this notable development in China-Vietnam relations.
Xi Jinping’s vision for a closer China-Vietnam relationship rests upon several key pillars, each designed to foster deeper integration and mutual benefit. These include:
- Economic Cooperation: Enhancing trade, investment, and infrastructure development to fuel economic growth in both countries.
- Political Trust: Strengthening political dialog, managing differences constructively, and building mutual confidence at all levels.
- strategic alignment: Coordinating on regional and international issues to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia.
- Cultural Exchange: Fostering people-to-people connections through education, tourism, and cultural programs to build understanding and friendship.
- Security Cooperation: Collaborating on issues such as border security, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity to address shared threats.
Economic Cooperation: The Engine of growth
Economic ties between China and Vietnam have grown exponentially in recent decades, making China one of Vietnam’s largest trading partners. Xi jinping’s call emphasizes further deepening this cooperation through several avenues:
- Boosting Trade: Promoting increased two-way trade through reduced tariffs, streamlined customs procedures, and diversified product offerings.Both nations are already benefiting from existing free trade agreements, and further enhancements are being explored.
- Attracting Investment: Encouraging Chinese investment in key sectors of the Vietnamese economy, such as manufacturing, renewable energy, and infrastructure.This includes supporting projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that contribute to Vietnam’s development goals.
- Infrastructure Development: Collaborating on infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and ports, to improve connectivity and facilitate trade. This can considerably reduce logistics costs and improve the competitiveness of both economies.
- Digital Economy: Expanding cooperation in the digital economy, including e-commerce, fintech, and digital infrastructure. This leverages China’s technological prowess and Vietnam’s growing digital market.
The focus on economic partnership is evident in the increasing trade volume. Below is a simplistic depiction:
| Year | Trade Volume (USD Billion – Example) |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 160 |
| 2022 | 175 |
| 2023 (Projected) | 190 |
Practical Tips for businesses looking to expand in Vietnam:
- Market Research is Key: Thoroughly investigate the Vietnamese market before making any commitments. Understand consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and competitive landscape.
- Local Partnerships: partnering with a local company can provide valuable insights, access to distribution networks, and assistance navigating the bureaucratic process.
- Focus on Quality: Vietnamese consumers are increasingly discerning and demand high-quality products. Don’t compromise on quality in an attempt to cut costs.
- Embrace Digital Marketing: The Vietnamese population is increasingly tech-savvy. Utilize digital marketing strategies to reach your target audience.
- Build Relationships: Vietnamese business culture values relationships. Invest time in building trust and personal connections with your partners.
Political Trust and Strategic Alignment
Beyond economics, building political trust is crucial for a stable and enduring partnership. This involves:
- High-Level Dialogue: Frequent visits and exchanges between leaders of both countries to discuss strategic issues, address concerns, and reaffirm commitments.
- Party-to-Party Relations: Strengthening ties between the Communist Party of China and the Communist Party of Vietnam to promote ideological alignment and policy coordination.
- Constructive Dispute Resolution: Managing differences, particularly regarding maritime issues in the South China Sea, through dialogue and negotiation to maintain regional stability.
- Multilateral Cooperation: Collaborating within regional and international forums, such as ASEAN and the United Nations, to promote shared interests and address global challenges.
Maintaining open communication channels is vital. Both sides adhere to a few key principles that steer their relationship:
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| mutual Respect | Acknowledging each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. |
| Non-Interference | Respecting each other’s internal affairs. |
| Win-Win Cooperation | Pursuing partnerships that benefit both nations. |
| Peaceful Resolution | addressing disputes through dialogue and negotiation. |
the South China Sea Context
No discussion of China-Vietnam relations is complete without addressing the complexities surrounding the South China Sea. Both countries have overlapping claims in the region, which have historically led to tensions. Xi Jinping’s call for a ‘shared future’ includes the need for careful management of these differences. Key aspects of this include:
- Negotiation and Dialogue: Emphasizing peaceful negotiations to resolve territorial disputes based on international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
- Code of Conduct: Working together to finalize a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to prevent escalation and manage activities in the region.
- Joint Development: Exploring opportunities for joint development of resources in undisputed areas to foster mutual benefit.
- Maintaining Stability: Avoiding actions that could escalate tensions or undermine regional peace and security.
Cultural Exchange and People-to-People Connections
Fostering closer ties between the people of China and Vietnam is essential for building long-term understanding and friendship. This involves:
- Educational Programs: Increasing student exchanges, scholarships, and joint research projects between universities and research institutions in both countries.
- tourism Promotion: Encouraging tourism and travel between China and Vietnam to promote cultural understanding and economic benefits.
- Cultural Events: Organizing cultural festivals, exhibitions, and performances to showcase the rich heritage and traditions of both countries.
- Media cooperation: Enhancing cooperation between media outlets to provide accurate and balanced coverage of each other’s countries.
Here’s a glimpse into potential cultural exchange programs:
| Program Type | Example | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Student exchange | chinese students studying Vietnamese language and culture in Hanoi. | Enhanced language skills, cultural immersion, and cross-cultural understanding. |
| Art Exhibition | Exhibition of Vietnamese contemporary art in Beijing. | Exposure to diverse art forms, promotion of cultural exchange, and fostering artistic collaboration. |
| Tourism Promotion | Joint tourism campaigns highlighting the scenic beauty and cultural attractions of both countries. | Increased tourism revenue, job creation, and strengthened people-to-people ties. |
With evolving security challenges in the region, China and vietnam are increasingly cooperating on issues such as:
- Border Security: Enhancing cooperation on border management to combat cross-border crime, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration.
- Counter-Terrorism: Sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts to counter terrorism and extremism.
- Cybersecurity: Collaborating on cybersecurity to protect critical infrastructure and combat cybercrime.
- Disaster Relief: Coordinating disaster relief efforts in the event of natural disasters.
Benefits and Practical Tips for Individuals
The deepening of China-Vietnam relations presents opportunities not only for businesses but also for individuals. Here are some potential benefits and practical tips:
- Career Opportunities: Growing economic ties create job opportunities in various fields, including trade, investment, tourism, and translation.
- Language Learning: Learning Mandarin or Vietnamese can significantly enhance career prospects and facilitate cross-cultural communication.
- Cultural Enrichment: Exposure to each other’s cultures broadens perspectives and enhances personal growth.
- Travel Opportunities: Increased tourism promotion makes it easier and more affordable to travel between the two countries.
Practical Tips for Individuals:
- Learn the Language: Even basic proficiency in Mandarin or Vietnamese can greatly enhance your experience.
- Embrace Cultural Differences: Be open to learning about and respecting cultural differences.
- Network and Connect: Attend cultural events and networking opportunities to connect with people from both countries.
- stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest developments in China-Vietnam relations.
First-Hand Experiences: Stories from the Ground
While official statements and data provide a framework, understanding the human element is crucial. Let’s explore some anecdotal perspectives:
Case Study 1: The entrepreneurial Bridge
Li Wei, a Chinese entrepreneur, saw a gap in the Vietnamese market for affordable, high-quality electronics. He established a joint venture with a local Vietnamese company, navigating the regulatory landscape, adapting his products to local preferences, and building strong personal relationships with his Vietnamese partners. His success highlights the benefits of combining Chinese manufacturing expertise with Vietnamese market knowledge.
Case Study 2: The Cultural Ambassador
Nguyen Thi Mai, a Vietnamese student studying in Beijing, dedicated her time to learning Mandarin and immersing herself in Chinese culture. She actively participated in cultural exchange programs, shared her own culture with her Chinese classmates, and became a bridge between the two communities. Her experience demonstrates the power of individual initiative in fostering understanding.
Case Study 3: The Tourism Pioneer
Chen Lin, a Chinese travel blogger, extensively documented her travels throughout Vietnam, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes, tasty cuisine, and welcoming people. Her blog attracted a significant following and inspired many Chinese tourists to visit Vietnam, contributing to the growing tourism industry.
The Future Trajectory of China-Vietnam Relations
Xi Jinping’s vision signifies a long-term commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam. The future trajectory depends on several factors, including:
- Effective Implementation of Agreements: Translating policy directives into concrete actions and ensuring that agreed-upon projects are implemented effectively.
- Management of Disputes: Continuously addressing differences, particularly in the South China Sea, through peaceful means and avoiding escalation.
- Adapting to Global Changes: navigating evolving geopolitical dynamics and adapting cooperation to address emerging challenges,such as climate change and global pandemics.
- Maintaining People-to-People Connections: Investing in programs that foster understanding and friendship between the people of both countries.