Biden to Sign Strategic Partnership with Vietnam – Politico, Reported by Reuters

Biden to Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement with Vietnam

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden is set to finalize a strategic partnership agreement with Vietnam during a planned state visit to the Southeast Asian nation in mid-September, according to reports from Politico, citing multiple sources familiar with the discussions.

This agreement aims to enhance bilateral collaboration, particularly in supporting Vietnam’s development of its high technology sector, including areas such as semiconductor production and artificial intelligence.

Reports indicate that Biden is considering a trip to Vietnam in September following the country’s expressed desire to bolster its relationship with the United States and establish itself as a key partner.

The White House has yet to confirm the specifics of the visit. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s foreign ministry did not provide immediate feedback regarding the potential trip. Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang mentioned that high-level officials from both countries are actively discussing measures to strengthen their bilateral relationship in a sustainable and long-term manner, with aspirations to elevate the partnership when feasible.

In April, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted a mutual interest in enhancing ties, as the U.S. seeks to solidify relationships with allies in Asia in response to a more assertive China.

While the exact nature of this enhanced relationship has not been detailed by officials, experts suggest it may involve increased military cooperation and the potential provision of U.S. weaponry.