China and Vietnam share a long border and a complex, millennia-old history intertwined with cultural, political, and economic ties. Even in antiquity, Vietnam was under Chinese rule at times, an influence that continues to shape its culture and language. In the 20th century, both countries were united by communism as a shared ideology. Nevertheless, the relationship has not been without conflict: particularly in recent decades, territorial disputes in the South China Sea have become a major point of contention.
This territorial rivalry is intensified by China's growing influence in the region and Vietnam's close ties to the US and partners such as Japan and the EU. Vietnam strives to maintain its sovereignty and pursues a balanced foreign policy that encompasses both cooperation with China and relations with other international partners. By diversifying its trade structure and implementing targeted industrial policies, particularly in the high-tech sector, Vietnam seeks to reduce its dependence on its large neighbor and engage with China on an equal footing through integrated alliances. Despite these strategic positionings, both countries maintain political exchanges and intensive economic relations that are of great importance to their economies.
In summary, the relationship between Vietnam and China remains a balancing act between cooperation and competition in a dynamic geopolitical environment. Both countries are aware of the impact of their bilateral relations on the entire region.
Would you like to learn more about this topic? – You can find a well-founded geopolitical analysis of current developments in Southeast Asia by expert Ralf Schuster in our year-end review “Geopolitics meets Thuringian foreign trade: New alliances in Southeast Asia” at December 4 in the LEG.
This region will also be the focus of [event/organization/organization] on [date/time] September 11 our India-ASEAN Business CircleThe focus here is on concrete business opportunities for Thuringian companies in India and the ASEAN economic region. Due to the limited number of participants, early registration for this exclusive online event is recommended.
From the October 18th to 25th A delegation from Thuringia will be traveling to Beijing and Shanghai, among other destinations, and we would like to extend a warm invitation to you. The delegation, led by Thuringia's Minister of Economic Affairs, Colette Boos-John, will explore new opportunities for cooperation between business and science. The agenda will focus particularly on intelligent manufacturing and robotics, e-mobility and smart infrastructure, as well as green tech and the circular economy. The trip will also serve to promote Thuringia as a business and investment location. Further information and registration details can be found on the [website/link to registration page] event website.
Furthermore, under the leadership of Marcus Malsch, State Secretary in the Thuringian Ministry for Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Rural Areas, on November 2nd A Thuringian business delegation is departing for Vietnam. The visit also coincides with the celebrations of "50 years of diplomatic relations" between Germany and Vietnam. In addition to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the itinerary will optionally include Bac Ninh and Than Hoa. Further information can be found [here/below/etc.] here.
