Vietnam Proposes 3 Priorities to Advance ASEAN-China Relations

Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung described ASEAN-China relations as one of the bloc's most dynamic and comprehensive partnerships, stressing the importance of effectively implementing the 2026-2030 Plan of Action to enhance the quality and strategic value of bilateral cooperation. The remarks were made at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM-59), where Vietnam proposed three priorities to further advance ASEAN-China relations. While specific details of the proposals have not yet been extensively reported, they indicate Vietnam's proactive diplomatic engagement in the region. Vietnam, while pursuing rapid economic growth under its one-party system, maintains a complex relationship with China, particularly concerning issues like the South China Sea. In this context, the proposal suggests a diplomatic strategy aimed at stabilizing relations with China through the ASEAN framework and maximizing Vietnam's national interests. This initiative aligns with Indonesian expert views highlighting Vietnam's increasing role in the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, suggesting a growing presence for Vietnam in the region. Vietnam aims to build stable diplomatic relations to support its economic growth, with strengthening ASEAN-China ties being a key pillar of this strategy.