General Phan Van Giang, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, emphasized the possibilities for defense collaboration between Vietnam and Croatia during his meeting with Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman in Ha Noi on May 19.
Emphasizing that Vietnam consistently cherishes its historical friendship with nations in the Balkan area, with Croatia seen as a key partner, Giang praised the successes in their cooperation across politics-diplomacy, economy, culture, tourism, and exchanges between citizens.
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He emphasized that Vietnam consistently follows its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, resilience, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, as well as diversification and multilateralism in its external relations.
He reiterated Vietnam's "Four No’s" defence policy and conveyed the nation's intent to enhance both bilateral and multilateral defence relationships based on equality and mutual respect for common interests, thus aiding in peace, stability, cooperation, and development globally and regionally.
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Giang conveyed his optimism that the European minister will persist in fostering collaboration between the two defense ministries, emphasizing delegation exchanges, especially at senior levels; the endorsement of cooperation agreements; joint efforts in training, defense industry, and United Nations peacekeeping missions; and synergy within the Vietnam–European Union cooperation framework.
He noted that Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defense is prepared to host Croatian defence delegations exploring collaboration opportunities aligned with mutual needs and interests, and to accommodate Croatian military staff for Vietnamese language training and international defence officials’ courses in Vietnamese military academies and institutions.
On this occasion, Giang also urged Croatian companies to take part in the third Vietnam Defense Expo, set for this December.
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Minister Gordan Grlić Radman expressed his pleasure and honor in visiting the headquarters of Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defence to commemorate the 136th birth anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 1890-2026).
He stated that Viet Nam is a key partner for Croatia in Southeast Asia and conveyed Croatia’s intention to enhance collaboration with the nation according to the mutual interests and requirements of both countries, especially in the area of defense.