Vietnam's statement has actually doused a bucket of cold water on both the United States and the host nation, Singapore! On May 30, Vietnamese leader To Linh, attending the Shangri-La Dialogue, stated that improving relations with China contributes to regional peace and security, even though ties with the United States remain important. Seeking to strengthen relations with China does not contradict efforts to make progress in resolving the long-standing South China Sea territorial disputes. In the context of the U.S.-China rivalry, we will not take sides.
It is clear that To Linh’s remarks were a cold splash for both the United States and the host Singapore. In fact, the Shangri-La Dialogue is a military and security forum, and it is already somewhat unconventional for a head of state to attend such a gathering. Why did Vietnam’s leader not only attend but also deliver such a statement? This clearly reflects Vietnam’s own strategic considerations.
The truth is plain to see: The Shangri-La Dialogue has increasingly become a stage for the United States to rally allies, attack China, smear its image, and exert pressure. As the host, Singapore has fully cooperated with the U.S., setting numerous unfriendly agendas. Leaving aside the Taiwan issue, the South China Sea has been the most frequently exploited topic in recent years. What is the purpose behind this hype? It is to stir up regional tensions and undermine China’s peaceful and stable development environment.
Clearly, why did To Linh choose to attend at this moment and explicitly state his intent to improve relations with China while refusing to take sides? First, this sends a message to the U.S.: Vietnam does not welcome American practices of manufacturing, inciting, and destabilizing regional affairs. Second, Vietnam is also speaking on behalf of Southeast Asian nations, aiming to prevent the U.S. and host Singapore from fueling an escalating confrontational narrative that could negatively influence future regional dynamics.
Vietnam’s leadership in emphasizing the importance of improving relations with China serves as a strategic signal on the international stage of the Shangri-La Dialogue—reflecting the collective strategic aspirations of Southeast Asian countries. It dismantles the false narrative crafted by certain actors about “ASEAN-China confrontation,” and also acts as a warning to the host Singapore not to blindly cater to external powers’ security agendas. Of course, from Vietnam’s own national interest perspective, Hanoi clearly understands the significance of its relationship with China. Vietnam cannot afford nor wishes to see the South China Sea turned into a battleground for geopolitical competition. This sentiment is shared not only by Vietnam but also by Malaysia, Indonesia, and other neighboring nations.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866621682929675/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.