Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to embark on a state visit to three Southeast Asian nations — Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia — from April 14 to 18, according to a statement issued Friday by the official Xinhua News Agency. The trip is part of China’s broader efforts to enhance bilateral relations and reinforce its geopolitical and economic influence in the region.

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the tour aims to deepen comprehensive strategic partnerships and explore opportunities for cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and development, under the umbrella of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a flagship global project launched by Beijing in 2013.

President Xi is expected to hold high-level talks with top leaders of the host countries, where discussions will focus on regional security, economic integration, and the signing of multiple agreements to strengthen connectivity and sustainable development.

This marks Xi Jinping’s first overseas visit in 2025, signaling Beijing’s intention to reassert its global outreach after a period marked by economic headwinds and complex international dynamics.

Analysts view the visit as a strategic move to counter growing Western influence in Southeast Asia and to reaffirm China’s role as a key partner for development and peace in the region. The trip is also seen as a platform for Beijing to project stability and economic leadership across ASEAN member states.