Vietnam foreign policy

Hanoi's interpretation of its painful history with the U.S. and China reflects its desire to maintain peaceful relations with the two powers.

Indonesia would become the eighth nation, and the first in ASEAN, to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership with Hanoi.

The two neighbors share deep historical, political, and geographic affinities, but these risk being weakened by the shifting regional balance of power.

The late party chief "left behind a party-state that governs mostly by control and coercion rather than consensus and legitimacy."

Like his late predecessor, To Lam will begin his tenure as general secretary of the CPV by traveling north to Beijing.

While his accession marks the beginning of a new era in Vietnamese politics, To Lam is unlikely to enact major changes to the country's domestic or foreign policy.

Thai commentators fear that fast-growing Vietnam could steal their nation's economic crown, but in most respects bilateral relations are in a better state than ever before.

The late party chief adroitly balanced Vietnam's relationships with the major powers, while expanding its role on the international stage.

Trong had dominated Vietnamese politics since 2011. Now attention turns to his successor, former security minister To Lam.

Daniel Kritenbrink, the State Department's second-in-command of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, has arrived in Hanoi for a two-day visit.

The Russian leader is just the latest major power leader to come to Hanoi bearing gifts and promises.