Trump Meets Vietnam Leader, Signals Shift in Tech and Trade Relations

Post by : Saif Nasser

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Vietnam’s top leader To Lam at the White House, marking an important step in relations between the two countries. During the meeting, Trump said he would work to remove Vietnam from certain U.S. restricted lists that limit access to advanced American technology.

This was the first formal in-person meeting between the two leaders. The talks came at a time when both nations are looking to strengthen trade, technology, and political ties.

According to a summary shared by the Vietnamese government, Trump expressed support for improving cooperation in technology. Being on U.S. restricted lists can limit a country’s ability to buy sensitive technology, such as advanced chips and high-tech equipment. If Vietnam is removed from these lists, it could open the door to stronger economic and industrial growth.

The meeting also followed the announcement of major business deals. Vietnamese airlines agreed to purchase 90 aircraft from U.S. company Boeing. The total value of these agreements is reported to be over $30 billion. Such a large deal shows that economic ties between the two countries are growing stronger.

For the United States, the aircraft sale supports American manufacturing jobs and boosts exports. For Vietnam, the purchase helps expand its aviation industry and supports tourism and trade.

However, the timing of the meeting is also significant. On the same day, Trump announced a new 10% tariff on most imports from all countries after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down some of his earlier sweeping tariffs. This shows that while trade tensions continue globally, the U.S. is also building closer partnerships with selected countries.

Vietnam has become an important player in global supply chains. Many companies have moved production there as they diversify away from other markets. Strengthening ties with Hanoi may also help the U.S. balance its economic influence in Asia.

To Lam attended an inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington before meeting Trump. His visit highlights Vietnam’s effort to expand its diplomatic reach and deepen ties with major global powers.

Relations between the U.S. and Vietnam have changed greatly over the decades. Once divided by war, the two countries now cooperate in trade, education, and security. This meeting reflects how far that relationship has evolved.

Removing Vietnam from technology restriction lists would not happen overnight. It would require careful review by U.S. agencies. Issues such as national security and export controls would be considered before any final decision is made.

Experts say this move could signal a broader shift in U.S. policy toward Southeast Asia. By supporting Vietnam’s access to technology, Washington may be aiming to strengthen alliances in the region.

At the same time, global trade remains uncertain due to new tariffs and changing economic policies. While the Boeing deal shows confidence between the two countries, businesses will be watching closely to see how trade rules develop in the coming months.

The meeting between Trump and To Lam suggests that despite legal battles over tariffs and shifting policies, the U.S. continues to pursue strategic partnerships. For both countries, the outcome of these discussions could shape economic growth and regional influence in the years ahead.