Hanoi, Vietnam: India and Vietnam have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence cooperation under their enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership.
The two countries also discussed shared regional and international security concerns during a high-level defence dialogue.
Indian and Vietnamese Defence Leaders Meet
The meeting was held between Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defence.
The two leaders reviewed the progress made in defence cooperation between India and Vietnam.
They also discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in several areas.
Focus on Air Force Cooperation
Particular attention was given to strengthening cooperation between the air forces of the two countries.
The discussions focused on:
- Capacity building
- Professional exchanges
- Training
- Operational cooperation
- Greater engagement between the two air forces
Both sides expressed support for continued defence engagement.
Regional and Global Security Discussed
The defence dialogue also covered common security concerns.
India and Vietnam exchanged views on developments affecting regional and international security.
Both countries reiterated their commitment to deeper defence cooperation and closer strategic engagement.
AP Singh Visits Vietnam Air Force Unit
Earlier, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh visited Regiment 927 of the 371 Air Division of the Vietnam People’s Air Force.
During the visit, he met senior officials and fighter pilots.
He was also briefed about the regiment’s operational capabilities and training arrangements.
The visit provided an opportunity to understand Vietnam’s air force operations and explore areas for greater professional interaction.
Tribute Paid at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
During his official visit, AP Singh also paid tribute at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi.
The visit highlighted the importance of the longstanding relationship between India and Vietnam.
It was also part of the Air Chief Marshal’s wider programme in the country.
Bilateral Defence Talks Continue
AP Singh also held discussions with Lieutenant General Vu Hong Son, Commander of Vietnam’s Air Defence-Air Force Service.
The talks reviewed existing defence cooperation between the two countries.
Both sides also explored new areas where future collaboration could be expanded.
Focus on Future Cooperation
The discussions are expected to support greater interaction between the armed forces of India and Vietnam.
Training, professional exchanges, and capacity building remain important areas of cooperation.
Three-Day Official Visit
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh is on a three-day official visit to Vietnam.
The visit began on Monday.
After arriving in Hanoi, he was welcomed by India’s Ambassador to Vietnam, Sherring W. Sherpa.
The two also discussed bilateral relations and the broader partnership between India and Vietnam.
India-Vietnam Defence Partnership
India and Vietnam have developed closer defence ties as part of their broader strategic relationship.
Regular military exchanges and professional interactions have helped strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
The latest high-level meetings underline the importance both sides place on defence and security cooperation.
Conclusion
India and Vietnam have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding defence cooperation during Air Chief Marshal AP Singh’s visit to Vietnam.
The discussions focused on air force cooperation, capacity building, professional exchanges, and regional security issues.
The latest engagement is expected to further strengthen the defence partnership between the two countries and create opportunities for deeper cooperation in the future.
