In a significant move to bolster strategic ties, India's Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane held high-level talks with the Ambassador of Vietnam to India, Nguyen Thanh Hai, in New Delhi. The meeting, which took place recently, focused on reviewing and advancing the ongoing defence cooperation initiatives between the two nations.
Strengthening Strategic and Defence Partnership
The discussions between Defence Secretary Aramane and Ambassador Hai were comprehensive and forward-looking. Both sides engaged in a detailed review of the existing defence collaboration, acknowledging the positive trajectory of their strategic partnership. The talks underscored a mutual commitment to explore new avenues for cooperation that align with their shared security interests, particularly in the maritime domain.
The meeting is seen as a continuation of the strong defence dialogue established under the framework of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This partnership has been steadily growing, with defence and security cooperation forming a crucial pillar. The engagement reflects India's 'Act East' policy and Vietnam's key position in India's Indo-Pacific vision.
Key Areas of Collaboration and Future Trajectory
While the official readout did not list specific new agreements, the talks are understood to have covered a wide spectrum of defence-related issues. Traditionally, India-Vietnam defence cooperation has included several key areas:
- Military training and exchanges: India has been providing training to Vietnamese military personnel in various fields.
- High-level visits and dialogues: Regular exchanges between defence ministers and senior officials to maintain strategic alignment.
- Paradiplomatic engagements: The recent visit of the Chief Minister of Gujarat to Vietnam was noted as a positive step in strengthening sub-national ties.
- Maritime security: Given both nations' extensive coastlines and strategic locations, cooperation in this domain remains a priority.
The dialogue also likely touched upon regional security developments and the importance of maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Both India and Vietnam share concerns over stability and adherence to international law, especially in the South China Sea.
Implications for Regional Security and Bilateral Relations
This high-level defence consultation signals a deepening of trust and interoperability between the Indian and Vietnamese militaries. Enhancing defence capabilities through cooperation is a logical step for two nations that view each other as reliable partners in a complex geopolitical landscape.
The talks reinforce India's role as a key defence partner for Southeast Asian nations and a net security provider in the region. For Vietnam, closer ties with India offer a balancing element and access to India's growing defence manufacturing capabilities. The engagement is not directed against any third country but is aimed at fostering mutual capacity building and regional stability.
Looking ahead, the discussions are expected to pave the way for more concrete outcomes in future meetings, potentially including joint exercises, defence industrial collaboration, and information sharing. The commitment shown by both senior officials ensures that defence cooperation will remain a dynamic and central component of the India-Vietnam relationship.
