India and Vietnam today promised to affix hands for an open and thriving Indo-Pacific and ensure an efficient and rules-based regional security architecture, in what’s seen as a thinly veiled signal to China over its growing military posture within the region.
“We will work together for an open, independent and prosperous Indo-Pacific region where sovereignty and international law are respected and where differences of opinion are resolved through talks,” Prime Minister Modi said in a media statement quoted by NDTV.
This was decided after Saturday’s bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Tran Dai Quang who was visiting Vietnam.
“One of the pillars of our strong relationship is defense and security cooperation,” Modi said after the talks.
As reported Indian Express Quang said security and defense cooperation between the 2 countries is already “robust” and they’ll work towards capability constructing, training and peacekeeping through the United Nations.
He added that there will likely be a security dialogue between the 2 countries and they’ll cooperate closely on regional security challenges, including “maritime security and cyber security.”
After wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang, the 2 strategic partners signed three pacts providing for cooperation within the fields of nuclear energy, trade and agriculture.
Nikkei Asia Review reports that within the last five years, each countries have grown from $6 billion to over $10 billion.
“During our talks today,” Modi said, “we agreed to further strengthen our trade and investment ties, including in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, textiles and oil and gas.”
Modi also said Vietnam has a “key role” to play in India’s Act East policy aimed toward strengthening cooperation with Southeast Asia.
