Discusses crisis in Ukraine and South China Sea
AGENCIES / NEW DELHI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today talked with General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong over the phone. The two leaders complemented each other on the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam being celebrated this year. They expressed satisfaction over the rapid pace of wide-ranging cooperation under the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership which was established during the Prime Minister’s visit to Vietnam in 2016.
Both the leaders agreed to enhance defence partnership between the two countries. During the conversation, they also exchanged views on regional and global issues of shared interest, including the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and the situation in South China Sea.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated Vietnam’s importance as an important pillar of India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific Vision. He sought to enhance the scope of the bilateral relationship besides working for expeditious progress on existing initiatives. The Prime Minister also requested greater facilitation of market access for India’s pharma and agri-products in Vietnam. Mr. Modi highlighted the historical and civilization links between the two countries and expressed happiness in India’s involvement in restoration of Cham monuments in Vietnam.