Vietnam also has the ability to isolate maritime issues from bilateral ones, analysts say, ensuring fewer confrontations with China compared to the Philippines.
The Diplomat interviews Khang Vu, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Political Science at Boston College, about Vietnam’s diplomatic strategy amid great power competition.
Vietnam wants to keep both world powers onside, but striking a balance is becoming increasingly difficult, analysts say, as Hanoi elevates its ties with Washington – and eyes US arms.