New Delhi: India and Vietnam have elevated their bilateral relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership following high level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President To Lam in New Delhi.
The announcement came during President To Lam’s three day state visit to India, his first overseas visit since assuming office earlier this month. Both leaders agreed to deepen cooperation across defence, economic connectivity, security and regional affairs, while also reaffirming their shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Addressing the media after delegation level talks, PM Modi described Vietnam as a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy and Vision Ocean initiative. He said both countries shared a common outlook for the Indo-Pacific and would continue working together to strengthen rule of law, regional stability and prosperity.
The discussions also focused on expanding defence and security cooperation between the two nations. Although no direct reference was made publicly, regional security concerns and China’s increasing military activity in the Indo-Pacific are understood to have featured prominently during the talks.
Both sides also agreed to strengthen economic and financial cooperation. PM Modi announced that India’s Unified Payments Interface system and Vietnam’s fast payment platform would soon be connected, a move expected to improve digital transactions and financial connectivity between the two countries.
President To Lam said the discussions helped reinforce political trust and paved the way for deeper security collaboration. He emphasised the importance of expanding cooperation in strategic sectors and maintaining close coordination on regional issues.
India and Vietnam have steadily strengthened defence ties in recent years. Last year, the two countries signed agreements related to submarine search and rescue cooperation as well as defence industry collaboration.
The latest elevation in ties signals a significant step in India and Vietnam’s growing partnership as both nations seek stronger economic engagement and closer strategic coordination in the rapidly evolving Indo-Pacific landscape.
