The intense competition between China, Japan, and the United States for influence in Southeast Asia and globally is highlighted by the strategic moves and reactions of Vietnam. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Vietnam on September 10-12, 2021, is seen as a counterbalance to recent US 'shuttle diplomacy.' The visit coincides with Japan's Defense Minister's trip to Vietnam, emphasizing the regional security dynamics. China's assertive actions, including military exercises and vaccine diplomacy, are contrasted with Japan's supportive defense cooperation and the US's growing security partnership with Vietnam. The article suggests that Vietnam should pursue a transparent and balanced relationship with all major powers for its benefit.

Vice President Kamala Harris's visit to Vietnam was marked by a series of 'strange yet familiar' events, including a last-minute meeting between the Vietnamese Prime Minister and a Chinese envoy just hours before Harris's arrival, and the Vietnamese government's seemingly deliberate downplaying of Harris's visit compared to the warm reception she received in Singapore. The article also touches on the Vietnamese public's skepticism towards Chinese vaccines and the Chinese consulate's controversial social media post. It highlights the discrepancy between Vietnam's public diplomatic statements and its actions, particularly in relation to the United States and China, and suggests that the U.S. is seeking a stronger strategic partnership with Vietnam, which the Vietnamese leadership has not openly embraced.

The article criticizes the Vietnamese government and Communist Party leaders for their approach to democracy and governance. It highlights controversial statements made by figures like Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and the lack of transparency and accountability in the political system. The author agrees with critics like Professor Nguyễn Đình Cống, who argue for the importance of free speech and public opinion in governance. The article also discusses the recent election process and the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting inefficiencies and a lack of proactive measures compared to neighboring countries. The author concludes by questioning the sincerity of the government's anti-corruption efforts and the practicality of recent calls for reform in land law and education by Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính.

The article discusses the political climate in Vietnam during the arrival of the new U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, highlighting the Communist Party of Vietnam's tight control over media and the recent crackdown on independent journalism. It criticizes the National Assembly of Vietnam for constitutional and legal breaches in the election process and expresses concern over Vietnam's potential shift towards China's Belt and Road Initiative. The article also touches on Vietnam's international relations, particularly its stance on Myanmar at the UN and the implications of U.S. foreign policy under President Joe Biden for Vietnam.