**Xi Calls for Vietnam’s Alliance Against 'Bullying' Amid Evolving US-China Trade Tensions**

As the trade war escalates, Xi Jinping's diplomatic journey seeks to position China as a defender of free trade principles.

During his Southeast Asia tour, China's President Xi Jinping urged Vietnam to stand against "unilateral bullying" in a push to uphold a global free trade system, subtly avoiding a direct confrontation with the United States. This diplomatic overture occurs amidst escalating tensions due to a trade war ignited by US tariffs on China, and policy discussions surrounding tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

Xi's trip, which also includes visits to Malaysia and Cambodia, comes at a pivotal time when Vietnam is grappling with potential US tariffs reaching as high as 46%, although a recent temporary suspension was announced by the Trump administration. During a meeting in Hanoi with key Vietnamese officials, Xi urged combats against unilateralism, reaffirming the need for stability within global trade systems and supply chains.

Experts have noted that Xi's rhetoric serves as a strategic maneuver, portraying China as a stalwart supporter of trade norms, while framing the US as increasingly isolated and rogue within international commerce. Trump criticized Xi's outreach in Vietnam, interpreting the discussions as a collaboration aimed against American interests.

As trade battles intensify, Xi's engagements in Vietnam reflect a broader narrative shift, where China seeks to affirm itself as a reliable partner. While meeting with Vietnamese leadership, including Secretary-General To Lam, Xi emphasized strengthening their cooperative resolve amid a tumultuous trading environment.

As the situation unfolds, analysts suggest Vietnam will tread carefully to manage optics of perceived alignment with China against the US, highlighting the delicate balance it must navigate given the US's significant role in its economy. Following his time in Vietnam, Xi is poised to arrive in Malaysia, where further dialogues about economic cooperation and infrastructure developments with Chinese firms, such as Huawei, are likely. The ongoing diplomatic subtlety reflects Xi's aim of portraying a contrasting image of China as a dependable ally, juxtaposed with the perceived unpredictability of American trade policies.