Strengthening Ties: To Lam and Modi Discuss India-Vietnam Relations

On May 6, 2026, To Lam engaged in crucial discussions with Narendra Modi in New Delhi, following a lavish welcome ceremony led by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi at the Presidential Palace. This ceremony, executed with the highest diplomatic honors accorded to heads of state, underscored the momentous nature of the India-Vietnam relationship.

Prime Minister Modi extended a heartfelt welcome to the Vietnamese delegation and congratulated To Lam on his recent election as President of Vietnam by the 16th National Assembly. Modi pointed out the historic significance of the visit, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership formed in 2016, while also highlighting the deepening friendship and collaboration between both nations across crucial sectors.

President To Lam expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the gracious hospitality extended by India's leadership and populace. He reiterated that Vietnam views India as one of its foremost strategic partners, aiming to further bolster the enduring friendship and collaborative efforts. He lauded India's impressive economic growth and technological advancements under Modi, stating that India has emerged as a global leader in innovation and economics.

The leaders took stock of the strides made over the previous decade in areas such as defence, trade, tourism, technology, and cultural exchanges. In 2025, bilateral trade exceeded US$16.4 billion, with nearly 90 direct flights operating regularly between India and Vietnam, demonstrating a significant enhancement in connectivity.

Both parties agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to an “Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” focusing on strengthened cooperation across political, economic, technological, and defensive domains. They emphasized shared values of independence, self-reliance, and adherence to international law as the bedrock of their bilateral relations and regional collaboration.

Defence and security discussions were paramount, with India committing to further assistance in defence training, maritime security, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism efforts. The two nations also resolved to enhance collaboration in defense industries and intelligence sharing to uphold regional peace.

Economic collaboration was another pivotal discussion point. The two nations aim to reach a bilateral trade target of US$25 billion by 2030, promoting balanced and sustainable growth. Vietnam urged India to relax several trade restrictions, while both governments pledged to stimulate significant investments in sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced tech.

Both leaders identified science, innovation, and digital transformation as emerging pillars for cooperation. They agreed to broaden their collaboration in fields such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, IT, healthcare, clean energy, and essential minerals. Plans included the establishment of joint innovation centers and partnerships between tech firms from both countries.

On regional and global matters, both parties reiterated their commitment to peace, stability, and the freedom of navigation, guided by international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Several collaboration agreements were finalized in areas such as science, tourism, finance, cybersecurity, and health following the talks. President To Lam subsequently invited Prime Minister Modi to visit Vietnam soon, a proposal Modi readily accepted.