Xi Jinping and China’s Defense Chief Set to Visit Vietnam to Seek Strategic Gains Amid U.S. Tariffs Fallout

As Trump escalates tariffs on China and Vietnam, Xi Jinping and China’s defense chief launch coordinated diplomatic and military visits to Hanoi, signaling a major push to counter U.S. trade pressure and strengthen Beijing’s strategic foothold in Southeast Asia.
Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) and Vietnam President To Lam shake hands after a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on August 19, 2024. (Photo by ANDRES MARTINEZ CASARES / POOL / AFP)

Xi Jinping and China’s Defense Minister are ramping up diplomatic and military engagements in Vietnam as the fallout from Trump’s tariffs continues to ripple across Southeast Asia.

Their aim? to strengthen ties with one of the region’s most influential neighbors, seeking to gain from the growing U.S. rift.

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by Edwin Shri Bimo

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