Vietnam's foreign policy approach, known as 'bamboo diplomacy', has gained momentum as the country strengthens its ties with major global powers. The Communist Party-ruled nation has upgraded its relationships with China, the United States, India, South Korea, and Russia. This approach aims to cultivate more friendships and fewer adversaries, reflecting Vietnam's commitment to maintaining a balanced and independent foreign policy.
In recent diplomatic developments, Vietnam has made significant agreements with various countries. These include building a community with China, elevating its relationship with the United States to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and upgrading relations with Japan and South Korea to the same level. Additionally, Vietnam has established a resident papal representative and is considering a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Vietnam's active engagement in regional and international trade has also contributed to its growing influence. The country is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and has free trade agreements with the European Union, the United Kingdom, Chile, South Korea, and Israel. Vietnam is also part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
However, Vietnam's ongoing anti-corruption campaign may have implications for its foreign relations, particularly with China and the United States. The campaign, which has resulted in the removal of top officials and a crackdown on corruption, has led to speculation that hardliners seeking closer ties with China may emerge. Minister of Public Security To Lam is one such hardliner expected to come to the fore. This potential shift in leadership and alignment could impact Vietnam's relationship with the US and its commitment to 'bamboo diplomacy'.
Despite these potential changes, Vietnam's neutral stance in foreign relations and its policy of 'bamboo diplomacy' are expected to remain unchanged in the short term. Vietnam is confident in managing the South China Sea dispute with China and maintaining relations with major powers like the US, China, and Russia. The US will closely monitor Vietnam's political power play and may reassess its relationship with Vietnam depending on the outcome of the anti-corruption purge.
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