India-Vietnam Relations and Cooperation
Defence and Security Cooperation
- India and Vietnam aim to deepen defence and security cooperation, focusing on the co-production of Indian defence equipment.
- The partnership is a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy and the Vision MAHASAGAR initiative for the Indo-Pacific region.
- India has previously gifted the missile corvette INS Kirpan to Vietnam and delivered 12 high-speed guard boats in June 2022.
- Two Lines of Credit, totaling USD 300 million, are currently being utilized for defence projects in Vietnam.
Trade, Investment, and Economic Cooperation
- Discussions focused on expanding trade and investment, enhancing supply chains, and improving market access for Indian marine, agricultural products, and pharmaceuticals.
- Financial, port, and air connectivity between the two nations were also highlighted.
Technological and Scientific Collaboration
- Opportunities in nuclear energy, the space sector, and heritage conservation were explored.
- Cooperation in setting standards for seafarers and capacity building was discussed.
Diplomatic and Cultural Engagements
- Recent high-level visits from Vietnam have elevated the bilateral relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
- The two countries agreed to observe the following year as the Year of India-Vietnam Friendship to celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations.
- The growing popularity of Yoga in Vietnam was appreciated.
Regional and Global Cooperation
- India and Vietnam reaffirmed commitment to cooperation in regional and multilateral forums, exchanging views on regional and global developments.
- Vietnam’s engagement in India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiatives was welcomed.
The meeting underscored the importance of Vietnam as a key partner in India's Act East Policy, with both countries committed to strengthening their partnership across various domains.
