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Vietnam to Host Key Diplomatic Meetings Amid Rising U.S. Tariff Risks

Vietnam will welcome China’s Xi Jinping and EU leaders in April over U.S. tariff concerns. Discussions will focus on railway connections and the potential for Vietnam to utilize Chinese aircraft. This illustrates a significant move towards strengthening trade ties amid shifting global policies.

Vietnam is set to host an influx of diplomatic activity with visits from key leaders, including China’s President Xi Jinping and high-ranking EU officials, in response to the rising risks associated with U.S. trade tariffs. Both China, the European Union, and Vietnam maintain significant trade surpluses with the United States and are facing increasing tariffs imposed by the current U.S. administration, with more changes anticipated soon.

President Xi Jinping’s visit is scheduled for April 14 and will be his second trip to Vietnam within an 18-month period. His multi-day visit is part of a broader itinerary that includes Southeast Asia stops in Cambodia and Malaysia. However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has not disclosed any details about the trip during a recent media briefing.

A principal agenda item for Xi’s discussions with Vietnamese leaders includes rail connectivity projects aimed at enhancing trade links between northern Vietnam and China. These projects reflect the countries’ shared goals of promoting trade facilitation. Additionally, Vietnam is poised to approve the use of Chinese COMAC aircraft, potentially leading to leasing agreements or purchases of these commercial jets by Vietnamese airlines.

Prior to Xi’s visit, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will meet with Vietnamese leadership on April 9, followed by EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are also slated to visit in the weeks ahead, reflecting the EU’s commitment to strengthening trade relationships with Vietnam.

In a recent video message, von der Leyen emphasized the evolving landscape of tariffs and export controls, stating, “The tide of tariffs and export controls is rising… We want to create new opportunities to trade and invest with trusted partners,” highlighting the EU’s strategic aims in the region.

In summary, Vietnam is poised to become a focal point for international diplomacy as it hosts influential leaders from China and the European Union amidst escalating U.S. trade tariffs. Key discussions will focus on enhancing transportation links and potentially advancing commercial aircraft agreements, which signify deeper economic collaboration. The upcoming visits reflect a collective effort among nations to navigate the complexities of global trade dynamics in current times.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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