Politics · India Bureau
India's NSA holds defence talks with Vietnam counterpart in Hanoi
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister to review bilateral defence cooperation, building on the elevated strategic partnership between the two nations.
LSN India ·
India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval held discussions with Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister in Hanoi to assess progress on defence and security cooperation between the two countries. The meeting underscored New Delhi's commitment to strengthening ties with a key Southeast Asian partner amid evolving regional dynamics.
The engagement comes following the upgrade of India-Vietnam relations to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Vietnamese President Võ Văn Thương's visit to India in May. The elevation of bilateral ties reflected both nations' shared interests in maritime security, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
Defence collaboration has emerged as a cornerstone of India-Vietnam relations, encompassing military training exchanges, naval cooperation, and defence technology partnerships. The Hanoi meeting provided an opportunity to chart the course for deepening these connections in the coming period.
The visit reflects India's broader Indo-Pacific strategy and its emphasis on strengthening partnerships with Southeast Asian nations. Vietnam, as a significant regional power and fellow claimant in disputed waters, represents a natural strategic ally for New Delhi's vision of a free, open, and rules-based regional order.