Vietnamese President Tô Lâm has elevated the relationship with Canada to a strategic partnership, following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s initiatives to foster closer collaboration among middle powers in addressing pressures from the United States and China.
“In an uncertain global landscape, trust, accountability, and shared interests constitute strategic principles in themselves,” Lâm stated during a speech at Parliament Hill on Thursday.
During his one-day state visit, various activities were arranged, including a tree-planting ceremony at Rideau Hall and an address to parliamentarians and members of the diaspora.
Being the first Vietnamese president to visit Canada, Lâm, who also heads the country’s communist party, holds a significant position of authority.
In a meeting at Carney’s West Block office, the prime minister praised Lâm for leading a middle power and highlighted the swift progress in the relationship since a 2017 agreement encompassing investment, defense, and academia.
Carney hinted at the possibility of direct commercial flights between Canada and Vietnam, announcing positive developments in that regard.
The new strategic partnership signals enhanced collaboration on long-term objectives, as noted by Vina Nadjibulla, co-founder of the Centre for Strategic Statecraft, an organization specializing in geopolitics.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining strong ties, Lâm emphasized the need for concrete action plans with clear priorities to address impediments.
According to Global Affairs Canada, Vietnam is Canada’s largest trading partner in Southeast Asia, with bilateral merchandise trade exceeding $20 billion in the previous year.
Canada and Vietnam share a common goal of reducing dependence on the United States, with both nations working towards diversifying supply chains and expanding trade relationships.
Vietnam’s leadership in addressing forced labor issues in supply chains aligns with Canada’s objectives, with both countries striving to minimize reliance on the U.S.
The partnership between Canada and Vietnam holds broader significance within the context of the CPTPP bloc, which emphasizes rule-based trade practices and fundamental labor rights.
Lâm’s visit to Canada, acknowledging the historical ties and mutual cooperation, underscores the growing diplomatic engagement with foreign leaders responding to Canada’s expanding role as a middle power on the global stage.
