China Establishes Diplomatic Relations with the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, Begins Providing Assistance
January 17, 1950
The People’s Republic of China formally recognizes Ho Chi Minh’s Democratic Republic of Vietnam and agrees to supply military assistance to the Viet Minh. China begins sending military advisers, arms, ammunition, and explosives to the Viet Minh. The Soviet Union then extends recognition to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on January 30.1