Ajit Doval, Vietnam Agree to Deepen Defence Ties
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, General Phan Van Giang, in Hanoi on Monday, November 2, 2026, with both countries agreeing to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. The meeting formed part of Doval’s official visit to Vietnam and reflected growing strategic engagement between New Delhi and Hanoi, particularly in maritime security, military cooperation and regional stability.
Ajit Doval Reviews Defence Cooperation With Vietnam
During their discussions, Doval and General Phan Van Giang reviewed existing defence arrangements and explored opportunities to expand cooperation.
The two sides reaffirmed the importance of defence collaboration under the India-Vietnam Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
General Giang emphasised the need to strengthen military cooperation as an important component of bilateral relations.
India and Vietnam have been expanding cooperation through military training, defence technology, capacity building and exchanges between their armed forces.
India-Vietnam Security Dialogue Expands Cooperation
Doval’s visit followed the fourth India-Vietnam Security Dialogue, held in New Delhi in October 2026.
The dialogue covered counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, maritime security, economic security and emerging technologies.
During his Hanoi visit, Doval also held discussions with Vietnam’s Minister of Public Security, General Luong Tam Quang, focusing on strengthening security cooperation and exchanging views on regional developments.
He separately met Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung to discuss preparations for the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Defence Partnership Strengthens India’s Act East Policy
India and Vietnam elevated their relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Vietnamese President To Lam’s visit to India in May 2026.
Both countries have committed to implementing their Joint Vision Statement on Defence Partnership towards 2030.
Vietnam remains an important partner in India’s Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific engagement.
The two governments have also established a target of increasing bilateral trade to $25 billion by 2030.
The latest discussions reaffirmed their commitment to expanding strategic cooperation, although no new defence procurement agreement was announced.
