Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday held bilateral talks with Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang in Hanoi, with both sides reviewing defence cooperation and regional security amid growing strategic ties between India and Vietnam.
In a post on X, Singh said “Held a productive bilateral meeting with Gen. Phan Van Giang, Defence Minister of Vietnam. We reviewed the growing India-Vietnam defence partnership and discussed ways to further deepen cooperation in maritime security, defence industry, training, and regional stability.”
He added, “India remains committed to strengthening its Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam.”
During the visit, the two sides jointly inaugurated a Language Lab established at the Air Force Officers College in Vietnam and exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the fields of artificial intelligence and quantum technology.
“Glad that both sides also exchanged an MoU in the field of AI and quantum technology, marking another important step in our Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” the Defence Minister stated.
Addressing the bilateral meeting, Singh highlighted the historical depth of ties between the two countries.
“India and Vietnam have shared deep and cordial relations for a long time, based on a strong foundation of defence cooperation and mutual trust,” he said.
The Defence Minister also paid tribute to former Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh on his 136th birth anniversary, noting his contribution to strengthening India-Vietnam ties.
“He was a visionary leader who is held in high regard in India. His historic visit to India in 1958 laid a strong foundation for lasting relations between the two countries,” Singh said.
Singh described the visit as significant as it coincides with the tenth anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Vietnam.
“It is a milestone that reflects the depth, maturity, and strength of our bilateral relations. I am glad that during your recent visit to India, it has now been upgraded to an ‘Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’,” he said.
“I am confident that our discussion today will further strengthen our defence cooperation and open new avenues for collaboration in the coming years,” he added.
(ANI)
