China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Challenges and Opportunities for Vietnam

The promotion of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a systematic program that adheres, on the surface, to the principles of mutual discussion, mutual development and mutual benefit, in tandem with the developmental strategies of the countries along the BRI. As it continues to develop, the ancient Silk Road should be aimed as the means of helping the countries of Asia, Europe and Africa to become more closely connected for their mutual benefit—the herald of a new historical period. Vietnam is benefitting enormously from Chinese infrastructure—construction, transport and supply chain integration with its northern neighbor. However, Vietnam will continue to harbor some reservations about Chinese intentions the longer the South China Sea dispute is not resolved and Beijing is perceived to use the BRI to whittle down rival claims to the Spratly Islands.