China and Vietnam sign 14 deals from rail to crocodiles and durians after leaders meet

Chinese President Xi Jinping (right) and Vietnam President To Lam shake hands after a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Aug 19, 2024. - AFP

BEIJING: China and Vietnam inked 14 documents spanning cross-border railways to crocodile exports on Monday (Aug 19), after Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Vietnam's new leader To Lam in Beijing.

Lam's visit to Beijing, his first overseas trip since he was appointed party chief early this month, signals a desire between the two communist neighbours to strengthen ties as trade and investment grow and despite occasional clashes over boundaries in the South China Sea.