China and Vietnam have signed a range of agreements to strengthen ties despite territorial disputes.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has made his first visit to Vietnam in six years, where he met with the country's leaders to secure dozens of deals.

Xi had meetings with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Vo Van Thuong on Wednesday, the second day of his trip.

Vietnam's state run media says the two countries inked 36 agreements. They include measures to strengthen cooperation in joint military patrols and the development of cross-border railways.

Hanoi and Beijing have been at odds over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. But they have strong economic and historical ties.

Xi's visit to Vietnam comes after US President Joe Biden traveled to the country in September. The two nations agreed to upgrade bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

In November, Japan also confirmed it was elevating its diplomatic relationship with Vietnam and bolstering cooperation on the economy and other areas.

Beijing's moves to strengthen ties with Hanoi are seen as an effort to counter Washington and Tokyo.