India and Vietnam have unveiled a 'new plan of action' to strengthen their strategic partnership, as announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. This initiative aligns with both countries' rapid development goals: India's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' and Vietnam's 'Vision 2045', paving the way for new opportunities for collaboration.
The new plan of action aims to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. It includes cooperation in the field of defense and security, with the inauguration of an Army Software Park in Nha Trang, Vietnam. A US$300 million credit line has been agreed upon to bolster Vietnam's maritime security. Furthermore, both nations have decided to strengthen cooperation on issues of terrorism and cyber security.
The bilateral talks between the two leaders also underscored the significant growth and strengthening of ties between New Delhi and Hanoi over the past decade. The relationship has evolved into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with bilateral trade rising by over 85 percent. Cooperation has broadened in sectors such as energy, technology, and development. Defense and security collaborations have gained new momentum, and connectivity has improved with more than 50 direct flights operating between the two nations.
Additionally, tourism is steadily on the rise, and e-visa facilities have been introduced to facilitate travel. PM Modi also emphasized the extensive conservation and restoration efforts carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India at the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam province, Vietnam. He invited Vietnamese citizens to visit the Buddhist circuit in India and expressed a wish for Vietnamese youth to benefit from the opportunities at Nalanda University.
The strengthening of the India-Vietnam relationship is a part of India's 'Act East' policy and the Indo-Pacific vision. PM Modi emphasized Vietnam's importance as an important partner in these initiatives. He stated, In our Act East policy and our Indo-Pacific vision, Vietnam is our important partner. There is a good agreement between our views about the Indo-Pacific. We support evolution, not expansionism. We will continue our cooperation for a free, open, rules-based and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
The leaders also agreed to focus on the areas of green economy and new emerging technologies. They concurred that to realize the mutual trade potential, the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement should be concluded as early as possible. The capabilities of each other in energy and port development will be harnessed for mutual benefit. Work will also be done towards connecting the Private Sector, Small and Medium Enterprises, and start-ups of both countries.
The new plan of action between India and Vietnam marks a major advancement in their relationship. It not only strengthens defense and security collaboration but also enhances trade and economic connections, promotes technology exchange and development, and encourages cultural and tourism exchanges. This initiative reaffirms their dedication to mutual support and cooperation, aligns with India's Act East Policy and Vietnam's strategic goals, and collectively contributes to regional peace, prosperity, and a rules-based order.