It was a busy weekend for Joe Biden as the president visited Vietnam Sunday.
While there, he secured deals on semiconductors and rare earth minerals, strengthening a supply chain that has proven vulnerable to changes in China’s output and trade policy.
During the visit, Vietnam elevated the U.S. to its top diplomatic status making the United States equal to both China and Russia. President Biden hailed the improved relationships in a press conference.
But that press conference drew attention, not only for policy reasons, but also for several stumbles and strange moments from the president, who was eventually cut off by an aide.
Gaffes aside, the visit comes as top Chinese officials, possibly including President Xi Jinping, are expected to visit Vietnam in the coming days or weeks.