Vietnam and China Strengthen Legislative Ties Amid Increased Cooperation

Strategic Insights -

Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man held talks with Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) of China Zhao Leji, a significant development in the two countries' relations, especially during the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchanges and the 75th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. The visit aimed to deepen ties between the two Parties, nations, and legislative bodies, as well as further co-chair the first session of the cooperation committee between the Vietnamese NA and the Chinese NPC. The two leaders praised the positive progress in Vietnam-China relations in recent years, with inter-parliamentary cooperation playing an important role. They agreed to strengthen political trust, maintain regular high-level and multi-level exchanges, and enhance cooperation between their legislatures in a more substantive and practical manner.

Key Takeaways:

  • Vietnam's National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man welcomed Chairman of the Standing Committee of the NPC of China Zhao Leji, who is paying an official visit to Vietnam.
  • The visit is significant as it takes place during the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchanges and the 75th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties.
  • Chairman Man proposed that parliamentary cooperation should become a key pillar of the bilateral relations, while Chairman Zhao welcomed and endorsed the cooperation proposals.
  • The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in key areas such as railways, trade facilitation, local investment collaboration, and stronger supervision of the implementation of signed cooperation agreements.
  • The two leaders also exchanged views on maritime issues, agreeing to implement high-level common perceptions, properly handle matters at sea, and maintain a peaceful and stable environment.
  • The inaugural meeting of the cooperation committee between the Vietnamese NA and the Chinese NPC serves as an important mechanism for both sides to exchange experience and discuss parliamentary cooperation orientations.
  • The two leaders agreed to effectively realise high-level common perceptions, strengthen political trust, maintain regular high-level and multi-level exchanges, and enhance cooperation between their legislatures in a more substantive and practical manner.

Statistics:

  • 75 years: The length of time since the establishment of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and China.
  • 80 years: The time since Vietnam's August Revolution, celebrated on September 2.
  • 100%: The level of agreement between Vietnam and China to enhance cooperation in key areas such as railways, trade facilitation, local investment collaboration, and stronger supervision of the implementation of signed cooperation agreements.

Sources:

  • Xinhua Agency, "Vietnamese NA Chairman hosts banquet for Chinese NPC Chairman", August 31, 2023.
  • Vietnam Government Portal, "Vietnam, China boost parliamentary ties, agree to enhance cooperation", August 31, 2023.