HANOI (AP) — President Joe Biden has opened a short visit to Vietnam by telling its leadership that their countries have a chance to shape the Indo-Pacific for decades to come. Biden told Vietnam’s general secretary that their countries are critical partners at what he thinks is a critical time. General secretary Nguyen Phu Trong agreed that they have an excellent opportunity to expand the relationship. Vietnam is elevating the U.S. to the status of being a comprehensive strategic partner, but Washington n the same level with China and Russia. Biden was welcomed to Vietnam on Sunday with a pomp-filled outdoor ceremony outside the mustard-colored Presidential Palace.