Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang

The Philippines and Vietnam signed a strategic partnership today deepening security ties in the face of Beijing's increased assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.

Vietnam agreed to build a "truly trustworthy" relationship with China today during a visit to Hanoi by its President Xi Jinping, but at the same time invited Beijing's old rival Japan for joint military exercises and a visit to a sought-after port.

The Philippines and Vietnam signed a strategic partnership today deepening security ties in the face of Beijing's increased assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.

Vietnam agreed to build a "truly trustworthy" relationship with China today during a visit to Hanoi by its President Xi Jinping, but at the same time invited Beijing's old rival Japan for joint military exercises and a visit to a sought-after port.