India and Vietnam Elevate Diplomatic Ties to Strategic Partnership

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the elevation of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership. Speaking at a joint press conference with Vietnamese President To Lam at Hyderabad House, he highlighted Vietnam as a key pillar of New Delhi's Act East policy and Vision for the Indo-Pacific. Reflecting on the growth of bilateral ties over the past decade, PM Modi noted that during his first visit to Vietnam ten years ago, the country became India's first comprehensive strategic partner within ASEAN. Since then, our relationship has seen significant and extensive progress. Alongside our civilizational ties, our connections in trade, technology, and tourism have also strengthened. Building on this solid foundation, we are now advancing our relationship to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight in welcoming President To Lam of Vietnam shortly after he assumed office. The visit, which includes a high-level delegation of business leaders, underscores the priority given to India-Vietnam relations by the newly elected president, who is visiting India just a month into his presidency.

PM Modi remarked that President To Lam's journey, which began in Bihar, emphasizes the deep cultural connections between the two nations. He noted that the Vietnamese president started his visit in Bodh Gaya, symbolizing our shared civilizational and spiritual heritage. Through this visit and our meaningful discussions, we are transforming goodwill into tangible outcomes.

Highlighting the cultural significance of Indian traditions abroad, PM Modi mentioned that over 15 million people have visited Buddhist relics displayed in Vietnam in 2025. He emphasized that both "heritage and development" are central to the bilateral agenda. Regarding regional geopolitics, he stated that both nations share a common perspective on the Indo-Pacific region. India aims to enhance its engagement with the broader ASEAN group with Vietnam's support. In the Indo-Pacific, we also share a unified approach. Through our robust defense and security cooperation, we will continue to contribute to the rule of law, peace, stability, and prosperity. PM Modi also expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by the Vietnamese government in light of recent security challenges in the Kashmir Valley.