The Vietnamese president is wrapping up a Southeast Asia tour aimed at shoring up regional security alliances.

Analysts say To Lam’s first visit to Manila as state leader signals Vietnam’s balanced foreign policy and investment in Asean partnerships.

To Lam's remark came during a keynote address delivered at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2026 in Singapore.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President of Vietnam To Lam arrived in Manila on May 31 afternoon, beginning a state visit to the…

Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (R) guides Vietnam's President To Lam (L) during a bilateral meeting at Malacanang Presidential Palace in Manila on June 1, 2026. Agence

The Vietnamese president is wrapping up a Southeast Asia tour aimed at shoring up regional security alliances.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that maintaining peace, stability, and the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea “remains non-negotiable” for both nations.

The Philippines and Vietnam agreed to strengthen defence ties on Monday to help bolster maritime security in the region and maintain peace in the disputed South China Sea.