Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam President To Lam met in New Delhi to enhance cooperation in defense, celebrating progress in India’s Defense Lines of Credit to Vietnam. The leaders upgraded their relations to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on shared vision and cooperation. They emphasized the importance of defense and security cooperation, highlighting joint efforts in various defense areas.
President To Lam praised PM Modi for India’s achievements and initiatives in national development and multilateralism. Both leaders affirmed the significance of defense ties under the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They agreed to boost defense procurement and strengthen cooperation in traditional and emerging defense areas. The leaders also underlined the link between prosperity and security, emphasizing the need for peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
India and Vietnam called for the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct. They condemned terrorism in all forms and stressed the importance of international efforts to combat terrorism. Vietnam welcomed India’s upcoming BRICS Chairmanship, while India reiterated its support for Vietnam as a BRICS partner country. Both countries affirmed their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
The leaders recognized Vietnam’s role in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision, supporting ASEAN Unity and Centrality. They aimed to strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. India and Vietnam shared a vision for regional peace, stability, and prosperity, emphasizing their commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.
