Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment recently unveiled plans to kickstart the construction of two high-speed railway lines connecting the capital, Hanoi, with China by 2030. This strategic move underscores the burgeoning rapport between the two Communist-led neighbors.
As Vietnam’s foremost trading ally and a crucial supplier for its manufacturing sector, China holds pivotal importance in the country’s economic landscape. Currently, an aging network of highways and railway lines serves as vital conduits between the two nations, necessitating upgrades on the Vietnamese side.
According to a statement released by the ministry late Tuesday, one of the proposed high-speed railways will span from the coastal cities of Haiphong and Quang Ninh, traversing Hanoi, and stretching to Lao Cai province, bordering China’s Yunnan province. The second line is envisaged to link Hanoi with Lang Son province, adjacent to China’s Guangxi region, cutting through areas brimming with international manufacturing hubs, notably those operated by Chinese entities.
While detailed project specifications remain undisclosed by the ministry, earlier this month, Vietnam divulged plans to capitalize on China’s expertise in constructing its inaugural high-speed rail network, dispatching officials to collaborate with Chinese railway firms. Additionally, a comprehensive high-speed rail initiative is in the pipeline to connect Hanoi with the economic epicenter, Ho Chi Minh City.
During a recent visit to Beijing, Vuong Dinh Hue, chairman of Vietnam’s National Assembly, engaged with top executives from Chinese railway companies, with President Xi Jinping playing host. This diplomatic tête-à -tête followed a series of cooperation pacts, including those concerning railway ventures, inked during President Xi Jinping’s visit to Hanoi in December.
Vietnamese government statistics reveal a robust 22% surge in trade between Vietnam and China in the first quarter of this year, amounting to $43.6 billion, compared to the corresponding period last year. Despite simmering maritime tensions in the South China Sea, bilateral relations have recently displayed signs of thawing, signaling a pragmatic approach towards enhancing economic cooperation.
