This marks the first overseas trip by Mr. To Lam in his capacity as head of state since being elected President by the 16th National Assembly.

In a recent congratulatory message to To Lam, Xi Jinping emphasized that relations between the two countries form a “community with a shared future of strategic significance.” Under the guidance of both Parties and states, Vietnam-China relations have made remarkable progress, with comprehensive strategic cooperation yielding substantial and tangible benefits for both peoples.

The Chinese leader noted that since the beginning of the year, the two sides have maintained high-level strategic exchanges and advanced cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the close bond described as “comrades and brothers.”

Xi Jinping stressed that strengthening unity and cooperation aligns with the shared interests of both Parties and nations, especially as the global and regional landscape continues to evolve rapidly and unpredictably.

He affirmed that China places great importance on the development of bilateral ties and stands ready to work with To Lam to sustain strategic dialogue, guide the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future, and continue advancing each country’s socialist development.

Strong momentum in bilateral relations

In recent years, Vietnam-China relations have maintained a positive trajectory and achieved significant outcomes.

In 2025, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries (January 18, 1950 - January 18, 2025), high-level exchanges intensified, with visits between key leaders reaching an unprecedented frequency.

Since the beginning of 2026, both sides have continued to engage in flexible high-level interactions.

Economic, trade, investment, and tourism cooperation have delivered encouraging results. In 2025, China remained Vietnam’s largest trading partner, while Vietnam was China’s largest trading partner in ASEAN and its fourth-largest globally on a country basis. Bilateral trade reached US$256.4 billion, up 24.8%, with Vietnam exporting US$70.4 billion, up 14.8%, and importing US$186 billion, up 29%.

In the first two months of 2026, China continued to be Vietnam’s largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade reaching US$66.7 billion, an increase of 30.2%. Vietnam’s exports amounted to US$17.4 billion, up 32.5%, while imports totaled US$49.3 billion, up 29.4%.

In terms of investment, China ranked second in total registered capital in 2025, with US$5.96 billion, up 33.4%.

Tourism also saw strong growth. In 2025, Vietnam welcomed 5.28 million Chinese visitors, a 41.3% increase, accounting for 25% of total international arrivals and ranking first among inbound markets.

Tran Thuong