"Biden Strengthens US-Vietnam Relations Amid China's Growing Influence"

President Biden solidified a new strategic partnership with Vietnam, elevating their relationship to the highest level in Hanoi's diplomatic hierarchy, equivalent to those with Russia and China. The move aims to counter China's assertiveness in the region, as Biden works to establish a network of partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. While Biden denied any hostile intent towards China, Beijing called on the US to abandon a Cold War mentality. Vietnam, while maintaining economic ties with China, seeks to establish more distance and offer an alternative. The US could potentially provide military equipment to Vietnam. Human rights activists criticize the US for prioritizing influence over promoting democracy and human rights.