President Joe Biden Visits Vietnam, Marking a Significant Milestone in the U.S.-Vietnam Relationship

President Joe Biden arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam on Sunday for his first visit to the country, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations. Biden noted the “50-year arc of progress” between the U.S. and Vietnam, which has evolved from a bitter past of the Vietnam War to a newfound status of partnership.

Strategically, experts say, the U.S. sees Vietnam as an important partner in its effort to counter the rise of China, particularly its expansive claims in the South China Sea. Vietnam is also becoming an increasingly attractive destination for U.S. investment, as the U.S.-China trade war leads some American companies to relocate parts of their manufacturing operations.

During his 24-hour visit to Hanoi, Biden met with the country’s leaders and welcomed the move of U.S. investment into Vietnam. He also expressed hope that progress could be made on climate, the economy and other issues.

Le Hong Hiep, a senior fellow in Vietnam studies at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, said that Vietnam will become an increasingly important link in the global supply chain. He added that the U.S. and Vietnam have a chance to shape the Indo-Pacific for decades to come.

The visit of President Biden to Vietnam is a testament to the strong relationship between the two nations and the potential for further cooperation in the future.