In 2025, Vietnam and China mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations—a significant milestone that speaks to the resilience, complexity, and enduring relevance of one of Asia’s most important bilateral relationships. As the region enters a new era shaped by geopolitical shifts and economic realignments, it is essential to reflect on the legacy of this relationship and the opportunities it offers for both countries and the wider region.
The roots of Vietnam–China relations run deep. The two nations share thousands of years of cultural exchange, philosophical influence, and historical connectivity. In modern times, this relationship was forged through joint struggles against colonialism and imperialism, giving birth to a bond not only of political alignment but also of revolutionary solidarity. The establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1950 symbolized this shared vision for national independence and socialist development.
Despite periods of turbulence—including the painful rifts of the late 20th century—the trajectory of Vietnam-China relations has been one of restoration, recalibration, and pragmatic engagement. Since the normalization of relations in 1991, both sides have worked diligently to expand cooperation across economic, political, and societal domains, while managing differences with a degree of maturity uncommon in many other bilateral relationships.
Economically, the relationship has grown exponentially. China has been Vietnam’s largest trading partner for many years, while Vietnam has emerged as China’s most dynamic partner in Southeast Asia. Bilateral trade reached over $230 billion in 2024, and both sides are expanding cooperation in industrial supply chains, cross-border logistics, digital payments, and green infrastructure. The two economies are increasingly complementary: Vietnam benefits from Chinese capital, technology, and market access, while China gains from Vietnam’s youthful workforce, stable environment, and integration into global supply networks.
Yet, this relationship is more than just economic. The two countries share a commitment to peaceful development and regional stability. High-level exchanges—such as mutual visits by party leaders, defense officials, and foreign ministers—have strengthened trust and coordination. The party-to-party relationship, in particular, provides a unique channel for strategic dialogue that helps manage political and ideological alignment.
At the people-to-people level, connections are expanding. Chinese language learning in Vietnam has surged, while Vietnamese culture and tourism remain popular in southern China. Confucius Institutes and educational partnerships contribute to cultural familiarity and soft diplomacy. These grassroots ties are crucial in countering misperceptions often amplified by nationalist rhetoric or external manipulation.
Challenges remain. Maritime disputes in the South China Sea (called the East Sea in Vietnam) continue to test mutual trust. However, both sides have shown a commitment to managing tensions through consultation, avoiding military escalation, and adhering to regional frameworks such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) and the ongoing Code of Conduct (COC) negotiations. Rather than being derailed by differences, the relationship has shown resilience through institutional dialogue and political will.
Looking forward, Vietnam and China are poised to play even more critical roles in the shaping of Asia’s future. Both countries are pursuing ambitious modernization agendas, with China aiming to achieve “socialist modernization by 2035” and Vietnam targeting high-income status by the same period. Their strategic interests converge in areas such as climate resilience, digital economy regulation, high-speed rail connectivity, and regional security architecture.
This 75th anniversary offers a timely opportunity to chart a course for deeper strategic coordination. Initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), if aligned with Vietnam’s development priorities, can foster win-win outcomes in infrastructure, green transition, and technological innovation. Both countries can also lead in promoting multilateralism and opposing unilateral coercive measures from external powers that seek to divide Asia.
Importantly, the Vietnam-China relationship, when managed with foresight, can serve as a model of how historical neighbors—despite complex pasts—can coexist peacefully and thrive together. In a global context where zero-sum thinking and ideological confrontations are rising, the ability of Vietnam and China to maintain stability and dialogue speaks volumes.
As we mark 75 years of diplomatic ties, this is not merely a retrospective moment. It is an invitation to look ahead—with strategic vision, political wisdom, and a shared commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for both peoples.
