BEIJING (Agencies): The navies of China and Vietnam are set to carry out their 38th joint patrol in the Beibu Gulf on April 16 and 17, according to a statement released by China’s Ministry of National Defense. The operation is part of longstanding agreements and arrangements between the two countries’ militaries, aimed at promoting cooperation and ensuring maritime security in shared waters.
The Beibu Gulf, also known as the Gulf of Tonkin, holds strategic importance for China due to its role as a vital maritime gateway connecting Southeast Asia. The region also contributes significantly to economic growth through trade, fisheries, and shipping, in addition to being rich in marine resources and potential oil and gas reserves.
The patrol seeks to enhance practical collaboration between the two forces, improve their ability to jointly safeguard the security of the region, and maintain stability in the Beibu Gulf. This joint initiative underscores the commitment of both nations to advancing mutual trust and addressing regional security challenges.