Thai-Vietnamese ties enter new phase

Vietnam has made significant strides this year in building strong, comprehensive strategic partnerships (CSPs) with four key Asean nations — Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia.

- Kavi Chongkittavorn

It is a notable achievement for Hanoi, reflecting its growing confidence and increasing political influence. Earlier batches of CSPs included global powers such as China, Russia, India, South Korea, Japan, the US, and Australia.

Under new leadership, Vietnam aims to be a bridge between influential regional players and increase its role in shaping regional norms, economies and security. This strategy enables Vietnam to maintain its strategic autonomy in the face of challenges. With the country’s long history of dealing with major powers, Vietnam is adroit at navigating complex situations and has, over the years, described its pragmatism and flexibility as “bamboo diplomacy”.

When President Donald Trump unilaterally hiked tariffs around the world, Vietnam was the first country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to initiate discussions about zero tariffs with Washington. For Vietnam, after the Covid-19 pandemic, economic growth and stability for the country’s development are priorities. Any disruption will undercut economic goals. In response, Hanoi has acted without delay.

Within the country, Secretary General Lam has adopted local policies and objectives aligned with international strategies. Domestic legislative reforms are aimed at strengthening governance, promoting efficiency and transparency, and improving public service. Hanoi's priorities also mirror the recent Thai-Vietnam cooperation pattern.

While all four of Vietnam's CSPs aim to strengthen friendship and economic ties, each also has specific areas of cooperation, especially in security, economy, capacity building and digital transformation. However, the partnership between Thailand and Vietnam is unique due to their shared goals in Southeast Asia. The two countries have reiterated that their strengthened relationship will have a positive impact on peace and prosperity in Asean and the broader Indo-Pacific region.