Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on a two-nation tour to bolster defence cooperation, landed in Vietnam's capital Hanoi on Monday. Prior to his departure, Singh posted on X, stating, "Today, 18th May, I shall be reaching Hanoi. Looking forward to visiting Vietnam and South Korea this week to further expand the scope of our engagement. I will focus on deepening strategic military cooperation, strengthening defence industrial partnerships, boosting maritime collaboration and promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region."
Bilateral Talks and Defence Agreements
In Hanoi, Singh is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Vietnam's Minister of National Defence, General Phan Van Giang. This visit follows the recent state visit of Vietnam's President To Lam to New Delhi, signalling a growing momentum in defence ties between the two nations. The BrahMos missile system is expected to be a key topic of discussion, as Vietnam had expressed interest in purchasing these cruise missiles during President To Lam's India visit. Singh's visit also coincides with the 136th birth anniversary of Vietnam's former president, Ho Chi Minh, on May 19.
Strengthening Ties with South Korea
Following his engagements in Vietnam, Singh will travel to South Korea, where he will hold bilateral talks with South Korea's Minister of National Defence, Ahn Gyu-back. The ministers will review defence cooperation between the two countries and explore new initiatives to strengthen bilateral engagements. Additionally, Singh will meet with Lee Yong-cheol, the Minister of Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), and chair the India-Korea business roundtable, according to an official release. A joint inauguration of the Indian War Memorial with Kwon Oh-eul, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, has been scheduled for May 21.
Strategic Importance of the Tour
This tour underscores India's commitment to enhancing defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. By focusing on strategic military cooperation, defence industrial partnerships, and maritime collaboration, Singh aims to promote peace and stability in the region. The visits to Vietnam and South Korea are expected to further solidify India's role as a key player in regional security and defence cooperation.
