Vietnam and China Deepen Strategic Ties Through Inaugural “3+3” Dialogue in Hanoi
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Tô Lâm received senior Chinese officials in Hanoi on Monday as Vietnam and China launched their first ministerial-level “3+3” strategic dialogue on foreign affairs, national defence and public security.
The Chinese delegation included Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Defence Minister Dong Jun and Public Security Minister Wang Xiaohong.
During the meeting, Tô Lâm conveyed greetings to Xi Jinping and expressed appreciation for China’s support for Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress. He congratulated China on its recent achievements and voiced confidence in its continued socio-economic development.
The Vietnamese leader welcomed the launch of the “3+3” dialogue mechanism, describing it as an important step toward strengthening political trust, enhancing strategic coordination and promoting stable bilateral relations. He noted that the initiative reflects both countries’ shared responsibility in maintaining regional peace and stability.
The Chinese ministers, in turn, conveyed greetings from Xi Jinping and congratulated Vietnam on the successful organisation of its 14th Party Congress and recent National Assembly elections. They also extended congratulations to Tô Lâm on his re-election as General Secretary.
Reaffirming Vietnam’s foreign policy, Tô Lâm emphasised the country’s commitment to independence, self-reliance and diversified international relations, alongside its defence policy of “four no’s.” He stressed that disputes must be resolved through peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
He reiterated that relations with China remain a top priority and a strategic choice in Vietnam’s foreign policy, highlighting the strong political foundation built through high-level agreements and cooperation frameworks.
Looking ahead, Tô Lâm called for enhanced coordination between the two countries’ diplomatic, defence and public security sectors, urging the “3+3” dialogue to evolve into a model mechanism for cooperation. He also emphasised the importance of boosting economic ties, railway connectivity, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.
The Chinese ministers affirmed that Vietnam remains a priority in China’s neighbourhood diplomacy and pledged to deepen cooperation across a range of areas, including defence, law enforcement, trade, investment, science and technology, and artificial intelligence.
Both sides also agreed to strengthen coordination in managing maritime differences and to resolve disputes peacefully in line with international law, contributing to regional peace, stability and mutual trust.
