China and Vietnam Strengthen Ties with Landmark Agreements

China and Vietnam solidified their partnership with 14 new agreements covering areas such as cross-border railways and crocodile exports during Vietnamese leader To Lam's first international visit as party chief. The meeting emphasized the deepening economic, defense, and infrastructural cooperation between the two countries amidst growing trade and investment.

China and Vietnam have recently signed 14 significant documents covering a range of sectors including cross-border railways and crocodile exports. This event followed a meeting in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vietnam's newly appointed leader To Lam.

Lam's visit marks his first overseas trip since becoming party chief, showcasing a strategic move to reinforce bilateral ties amidst the growing trade and investment relationship despite periodic territorial tensions in the South China Sea.

Among the key points discussed were soft loans and technological support for Vietnam's infrastructure development, enhanced defense and security cooperation, and commitments to boost agricultural trade. The agreements symbolize strengthened relations between the two historically linked communist neighbors.

(With inputs from agencies.)