India, Vietnam elevate ties to enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership, set $25 bn trade target

Rashmi Pandey — Wed, 06 May 2026 12:41:10 +0000

Narendra Modi and To Lam have agreed to elevate bilateral ties to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a significant step in relations between India and Vietnam following high-level talks during the Vietnamese leader’s state visit.

The two leaders held wide-ranging discussions covering political, economic, defence and regional issues, reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation across sectors. The upgrade comes as both sides mark the 10th anniversary of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and aim to translate growing engagement into concrete outcomes.

In the economic domain, both countries set a target to raise bilateral trade to $25 billion by 2030. They agreed to enhance market access, including approval for Indian grapes and Vietnamese durians, while expediting discussions on additional agricultural products. The two sides also emphasized strengthening supply chains and improving ease of doing business to boost investment flows.

Defence and security cooperation remained a key pillar of the partnership. The leaders agreed to expand collaboration in areas such as joint exercises, defence technology, maritime security, cyber security and capacity building. They also discussed enhancing defence procurement and continuing implementation of existing agreements, including logistics and submarine rescue cooperation.

Maritime cooperation featured prominently, with both countries reaffirming the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. They stressed adherence to international law, particularly UNCLOS, and called for peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea.

In technology and innovation, the two sides agreed to collaborate on emerging areas including artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, space, nuclear technology and critical minerals. They also welcomed cooperation in digital payments and financial innovation to facilitate business and tourism.

The partnership will also focus on renewable energy, climate resilience and sustainable development. Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in clean energy and support global initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and disaster resilience frameworks.

Health cooperation was expanded with discussions on pharmaceutical collaboration and digital healthcare, while cultural and people-to-people ties were reinforced through tourism agreements, academic exchanges and cultural programmes.

The leaders also committed to strengthening cooperation in multilateral forums, supporting reforms in global institutions and promoting the role of the Global South. Vietnam reiterated its support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council.

The visit included ceremonial engagements in New Delhi, bilateral talks, and participation in policy and business forums, with further engagements planned in Mumbai. The developments signal a broad-based expansion of ties, positioning both countries as key partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

To Lam begins key China visit to boost Vietnam ties

Maaz Ismail Roshanali — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:49:43 +0000

General Secretary and State President To Lam’s arrival in Beijing today marks a pivotal moment for Vietnam-China relations, serving as his first overseas trip since assuming his new leadership roles. This four-day state visit, running from April 14 to April 17, 2026, is designed to reinforce political trust and elevate bilateral cooperation to a new stage of development. The visit signals that both neighbors continue to prioritize their relationship as a cornerstone of long-term strategic growth and regional stability.

Diplomatic significance

To Lam’s decision to make China his first international destination underscores the top priority Hanoi places on its Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership with Beijing. By meeting with President Xi Jinping shortly after his election, Lam is ensuring policy continuity and strengthening the “comrades plus brothers” narrative. The visit reflects a mutual commitment to maintaining a predictable relationship even as the broader geopolitical environment becomes increasingly complex.

Economic and regional value

The pursuit of sound and sustainable growth is being materialized through practical infrastructure and trade projects. This visit is expected to finalize breakthroughs in strategic connectivity, particularly through the alignment of standard-gauge railway systems and the development of smart border gates. For Vietnam, China remains the primary partner for ensuring stable external supply chains and energy security, while for China, Vietnam is a vital link in its regional modernization strategy.

Strategic outlook

This visit is a clear reaffirmation of stability in a region often shaped by maritime tensions and great power rivalry. By engaging in high-level dialogue, Hanoi and Beijing are signaling their intent to manage differences quietly and avoid unnecessary confrontation. The deeper message is that both countries are keen to protect their economic momentum and keep their political relationship on course, ensuring that the shared future delivers tangible benefits to both nations.

To Lam | Business Upturn

India, Vietnam elevate ties to enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership, set $25 bn trade target

To Lam begins key China visit to boost Vietnam ties

Diplomatic significance

Economic and regional value

Strategic outlook