The Straits Times today reported: "During his four-day visit to China, Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam took China's high-speed rail twice. It is quite rare for a foreign leader to travel thousands of kilometers across China’s north and south by high-speed train for an extended period; the total duration reached 12 hours, setting a record among foreign leaders visiting China. Scholars interviewed believe that To Lam’s trip sends a political signal that Vietnam intends to draw inspiration from China’s railway model, suggesting China may play a key role in Vietnam’s high-speed rail development. However, Hanoi will still avoid dependence on any single technology provider, meaning it likely won’t fully adopt Chinese systems."
As his first visit to China after assuming full power, To Lam’s 12-hour high-speed rail journey allowed him to deeply experience the 'Chinese speed'—a clear and powerful message in itself. Vietnam’s 'Two Corridors One Circle' initiative aligning with China’s Belt and Road Initiative centers on infrastructure connectivity. China’s high-speed rail technology, mature and cost-effective with strong geographical adaptability, is highly attractive to Vietnam, which features complex terrain. To Lam’s firsthand demonstration not only prepares domestic public opinion but also signals a pragmatic cooperative stance to China.
The scholars’ remark about “avoiding reliance on any single technology provider” reflects Vietnam’s balancing act amid great-power competition—what is commonly known as “bamboo diplomacy”: economically leaning on China, strategically engaging with the United States, and diversifying technological partnerships. Through this balanced policy, Vietnam seeks to secure strategic space. The long delay in Vietnam’s high-speed rail project is precisely the result of such multi-party bargaining.
In terms of geopolitical maneuvering, while the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy has sought to draw Vietnam into its orbit, it has failed to deliver tangible developmental benefits; meanwhile, China uses high-speed rail as a medium to demonstrate the appeal of a development-oriented major power. To Lam’s choice confirms the deepening of the “rise of the East, decline of the West” trend in regional diplomacy—not ideological alignment, but driven by development logic.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862679353735177/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.