Viet Nam values traditional friendship with India: PM

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives Indian PM Narendra Modi

Vietnamese leader congratulated India on its significant socio-economic achievements obtained over the past few years. 

Indian PM Modi spoke highly of Viet Nam’s achievements in the process of socio-economic development and international integration, whilst affirming that India continues to see Viet Nam as one of the major pillars in its “ Look East" policy.

The two PMs voiced their delight at the active developments in relations between the two countries, especially in the Viet Nam-India Friendship Year 2017 as both sides celebrate 45 years of bilateral diplomatic ties, ten years of Viet Nam-India strategic partnership, and the first year of the implementation of the Viet Nam-India comprehensive strategic partnership, with a lot of practical and meaningful activities.

The two sides discussed measures aiming to accelerate bilateral cooperation, whilst agreeing to boost defence ties, with India pledging to strengthen the sharing of technologies and the supply of defence credit for Viet Nam.

In regards to economic cooperation, both sides voiced their belief in achieving the target of US$15 billion in two-way trade by 2020.

They also reached consensus on creating a favorable environment for the two countries’ investors and furthering energy cooperation, with the Indian side planning to conduct oil and gas exploration and production as well as construct thermal power plants in Viet Nam. 

The two sides agreed to effectively implement the framework agreement on the exploitation and use of aerospace for peaceful purposes, along with enhancing cooperation in the fields of healthcare, culture and people-to-people exchange.

The two PMs also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concern. Viet Nam supports India’s “Look East" policy and backs the country’s increasing role in the region and consolidation of its strategic partnership with ASEAN.

Both sides affirmed their continuous support and coordination with each other at regional and international forums.

Discussing the recent happenings in the East Sea, PM Phuc and his Indian counterpart emphasized the significance of ensuring peace, stability, as well as maritime and aviation security, safety and freedom in the East Sea; abiding by international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS-1982); respecting diplomatic and legal processes; and peacefully handling disputes in accordance with international laws.

                                                                                                                By Vien Nhu