India, Vietnam agree to boost security and defense ties

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Vietnam's Minister of Public Security and Foreign Affairs during his official visit to the country. The discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in security and other areas.

The meetings were part of Doval's visit and aligned with the India-Vietnam Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Indian Embassy in Hanoi stated that the discussions reflected the 'deep and mutually trusted civilisational partnership between India and Vietnam'.

In a separate meeting with Vietnam's Foreign Affairs Minister, Doval discussed ways to commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, set for 2027.

Doval also met Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence to review existing defense cooperation and agree on further deepening engagement in the sector.

During his visit, Doval visited the Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, where he met with senior Buddhist leaders. The embassy described Buddhism as a 'civilisational bridge' between the two countries.

Doval's meetings in Vietnam focused on strengthening security, defense, diplomatic, and broader bilateral cooperation under the enhanced partnership established during Vietnamese President To Lam's visit to India in May.