How to Make Vietnam a Powerful Trade Ally for the U.S.
Helping America's old war-time foe transition to a more high-tech economy would make the Asian nation a more valuable strategic partner.
Kamala Harris is right to strengthen ties.
Photographer: Manan Vatsyayana/AFP via Getty Images
Kamala Harris’ historic visit to Vietnam — the first time a U.S. vice president has visited the country since the end of the war — has got me thinking about the relationship between the two countries. Both nations’ interests would be served by a closer economic partnership. But making such a partnership work will require far-sighted policy changes on the part of both governments. The U.S. must open itself to trade with Vietnam, while Vietnam must rebalance and strengthen its economic development model.
The increasing diplomatic warmth between the U.S. and its old wartime foe is not primarily about economics; it’s about China. Vietnam feels menaced by its huge northern neighbor, with whom it has ongoing territorial disputes and a long history of warfare. Though an outright alliance with the U.S. is highly unlikely, Vietnam is understandably seeking a strategic partnership to help maintain the balance of power.