"Biden's Vietnam Visit: Strengthening Ties and Challenging China's Influence"

US President Joe Biden secured deals with Vietnam on semiconductors and minerals as Vietnam elevated the US to its highest diplomatic status alongside China and Russia. The upgrade is seen as crucial in the US strategy to contain Beijing and secure global supply chains. Vietnam is also in talks with Russia over a possible arms deal, which could trigger US sanctions. The upgrade will include a security dimension, and the US aims to help Vietnam diversify away from Russian military supplies. The visit also focuses on strengthening bilateral trade and investment ties, particularly in the technology sector, and addressing the shortage of skilled workers in the semiconductor industry.