On Wednesday, a Vietnamese navy frigate docked in Zhanjiang, southern China. The guided-missile frigate 015 Tran Hung Dao arrived for a five-day visit. This visit comes as tensions rise in the South China Sea, a region with competing territorial claims.
Zhanjiang is an important naval base. It hosts the headquarters of the Southern Theatre Command Navy, which oversees the South China Sea. The Chinese military’s Southern Theatre Command has planned several activities for the visit. These include ship tours, deck receptions, cultural exchanges, and joint exercises. The goal is to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen the friendship between the Chinese and Vietnamese navies.
Increased Military Activity in the Region
The visit occurs amidst heightened military activity in the South China Sea. The Philippines began two days of naval and air exercises with the United States, Canada, and Australia on Wednesday. This is the first time these nations have conducted joint drills of this kind in the area. At the same time, the Chinese military was conducting joint sea and air patrols around Scarborough Shoal, a contested area.
In addition, last week saw the first joint exercise between the Philippines and Japan. Reports also indicate that Chinese military drones recently approached Vietnam’s coastline and exclusive economic zone. These developments highlight the ongoing tensions and the complex military environment in the South China Sea.
Efforts to Improve Relations
Despite a history of tension and maritime disputes between China and Vietnam, both countries are working to improve relations. Recent years have seen increased efforts to boost communication and cooperation between their navies and coastguards.
In late June, the Chinese and Vietnamese navies conducted a two-day joint patrol exercise in the Gulf of Tonkin. This area is located between Vietnam and China in the northwestern part of the South China Sea. Both nations contributed two vessels to the exercise. They performed joint search and rescue operations and signal light drills.
These joint activities aim to build trust and improve coordination between the two countries’ military forces. High-level leaders from both sides have emphasized the importance of these efforts. Vietnam’s new Communist Party chief, To Lam, has called for continued collaboration to strengthen relations between the two nations.
Vietnam’s Diplomatic Strategy
Vietnam has adopted a nuanced approach to its foreign relations, often referred to as “bamboo diplomacy.” This strategy involves carefully balancing its ties with China and the United States. As a vocal critic of China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, Vietnam works to maintain a stable and cooperative relationship with its powerful neighbor while strengthening its partnerships with other global players.
Japan’s Support for Vietnam
During a recent visit to Hanoi, Japanese Defence Minister Minoru Kihara announced Japan’s support for Vietnam. As part of a 2021 agreement, Japan will provide two transport vehicles to Vietnam. This gesture underscores Japan’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s defense and enhancing the Japan-Vietnam relations.
The visit of the Vietnamese frigate to China is a significant event in the context of ongoing regional tensions. While the South China Sea remains a hotspot for disputes and military activity, efforts by Vietnam and China to engage in joint activities and improve communication are steps toward reducing conflict. As regional dynamics continue to evolve, these diplomatic and military interactions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the South China Sea.