Vietnam's Lam Prioritizes China in First Diplomatic Move as Party Chief

Lam seeks to strengthen economic and political ties with Beijing while maintaining strategic balance with the US.

To Lam's visit to China marks his first overseas trip since becoming general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
Economic cooperation, including rail projects and trade, is a key focus of Lam's agenda in Beijing.
Vietnam aims to balance its relationships with both China and the US to boost economic growth and strategic autonomy.
Despite closer ties, Vietnam remains firm on its territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea.
Lam's leadership is expected to continue Vietnam's 'bamboo diplomacy' approach of balancing relations with major powers.