What Does PM Modi's Message to Vietnam's New President Mean for Bilateral Ties?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated To Lam on his election as Vietnam's President, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Vietnam. This relationship, which has been nurtured over the years, is expected to flourish under Lam's leadership. The congratulatory message follows the confirmation of Lam's presidency by Vietnam's National Assembly, marking a significant moment in bilateral ties. As both nations celebrate their diplomatic history, they are poised to enhance cooperation across various sectors for mutual benefit.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 13:18 IST

PM Modi Extends Congratulations to Vietnam's New President

New Delhi: On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated To Lam following his election as the President of Vietnam, expressing a commitment to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Modi expressed optimism that the longstanding friendship between India and Vietnam would flourish under Lam's leadership.

"I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. To Lam on his election as President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. I am confident that under his guidance, the enduring friendship between our nations will continue to strengthen. I look forward to collaborating closely to deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the benefit of our peoples and the region," PM Modi shared on X.

This message of congratulations came after Vietnam's National Assembly confirmed To Lam, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC), as the country's president for the term 2026-2031.

All 495 deputies present voted in favor of Lam's election.

Previously, Lam held the presidency from May 2024 to October 2024. He was elected as the general secretary of the 13th CPVCC in 2024 and re-elected for the 2026-2031 term during the first meeting of the 14th CPVCC on January 23, 2026, according to reports.

India and Vietnam enjoy a close and warm relationship, characterized as a comprehensive strategic partnership. This partnership was elevated during PM Modi's visit to Vietnam in 2016, as noted by the Indian Embassy in Vietnam.

The trajectory of India-Vietnam relations is guided by a "Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity and People," which was adopted by PM Modi and the former Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc during a Virtual Summit on December 21, 2020.

In 2022, both nations celebrated the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations and are actively collaborating to enhance their multi-dimensional cooperation.