Post by : Shakul

To Lam held important talks with Narendra Modi in New Delhi on May 6, 2026, following a grand state welcome ceremony hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi at the Presidential Palace. The ceremony was conducted with the highest diplomatic protocol reserved for heads of state and marked a significant moment in relations between Vietnam and India.

Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed the Vietnamese delegation and congratulated To Lam on his election as President of Vietnam by the country’s 16th National Assembly. Modi highlighted that the visit carries historic importance as both countries celebrate the 10th anniversary of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2016. He also emphasized the strong friendship and growing cooperation between the two nations across several important sectors.

President To Lam expressed gratitude for the warm reception given by the Indian leadership and people. He stated that Vietnam considers India one of its most important strategic partners and wishes to continuously strengthen the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries. He also praised India’s economic growth and technological development under Modi’s leadership, noting that India has become one of the world’s leading economies and innovation centers.

During the discussions, both leaders reviewed the progress achieved over the past decade in defence, trade, tourism, technology and cultural exchanges. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached more than US$16.4 billion in 2025, while direct air connectivity between India and Vietnam has expanded significantly with nearly 90 direct flights operating regularly between the two nations.

The two sides agreed to elevate their relationship to an “Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” aimed at deepening cooperation in political, economic, technological and defence sectors. Both leaders stressed that shared values of independence, self-reliance and respect for international law form the foundation of bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

Defence and security cooperation remained one of the central topics during the talks. India pledged continued support for Vietnam in defence training, maritime security, cybersecurity and counter-terrorism cooperation. Both countries also agreed to strengthen collaboration in defence industries and information sharing to ensure regional peace and stability.

Economic cooperation was another major focus of the meeting. Both countries set a target of achieving US$25 billion in bilateral trade by 2030 through balanced and sustainable growth. Vietnam requested India to ease certain trade regulations related to product standards while both governments agreed to encourage large-scale investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and advanced technologies.

The leaders also identified science, innovation and digital transformation as new pillars of future cooperation. Both countries agreed to expand collaboration in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, information technology, healthcare, clean energy and essential minerals. Plans were also discussed for establishing joint innovation centres and research partnerships between technology companies from both countries.

On regional and international issues, both sides reaffirmed support for peace, stability and freedom of navigation in the region based on international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Following the talks, several cooperation agreements were signed in sectors including science, tourism, finance, cybersecurity and health. President To Lam also invited Prime Minister Modi to visit Vietnam in the near future, and Modi accepted the invitation.

#world news #Vietnam #healthy relationship #Strategic Partnership #Partnership