HANOI, November 2 — National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on Monday held discussions with Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, General Phan Van Giang, to review ongoing defence cooperation and explore ways to strengthen bilateral engagement.
The meeting took place during Doval's official visit to Vietnam, which began on Sunday. Both sides reviewed the progress of existing defence cooperation and agreed to further deepen collaboration in the sector, according to the Indian Embassy in Hanoi.
Doval also held delegation-level talks with Vietnam's Minister of Public Security, General Luong Tam Quang. The discussions focused on ongoing cooperation in the security domain, with both sides agreeing to strengthen existing multifaceted ties. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments.
The meetings form part of India's engagement with Vietnam under the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was established during Vietnamese President To Lam's state visit to India in May 2026.
During his meeting with Vietnam's Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung, Doval also discussed preparations to mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027. Both sides agreed to commemorate the milestone through activities reflecting their enhanced partnership.
Doval's visit follows a series of bilateral engagements aimed at expanding cooperation across defence, maritime security, counter-terrorism, cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
The two countries held their fourth Deputy Ministerial-level Security Dialogue in New Delhi on October 16, 2026, reviewing cooperation in economic security, maritime engagements, counter-terrorism and cybersecurity, among other areas.
India and Vietnam have also reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Joint Vision Statement on India-Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030.
During President To Lam's May visit, the two countries elevated their bilateral relationship and set a target of increasing annual bilateral trade to USD 25 billion by 2030.
Doval also visited the historic Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, where he was received by senior representatives of the National Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. The visit highlighted the shared Buddhist heritage and civilisational links between the two countries.
