NEW DELHI — In a landmark joint press meet following bilateral talks with Vietnamese President and General Secretary To Lam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a transformative vision for the future of India-Vietnam relations. Emphasizing the transition to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the PM highlighted that this visit marks a shift from shared goodwill to “solid results.”
1. Civilizational Heritage & Restoration
The Prime Minister underscored the deep spiritual bond between the two nations, noting that 15% of Vietnam’s population (over 15 million people) paid respects to the Buddhist relics sent from India last year.
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Restoration Projects: India is actively restoring the My Son and Nhan Tower temples of the ancient Champa civilization.
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Digital Preservation: A new initiative will digitalize Champa manuscripts to preserve this shared heritage for future generations.
2. Economic Goals & Market Access
To drive economic security and supply chain resilience, several key trade decisions were announced:
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$25 Billion Target: Both leaders committed to increasing bilateral trade from the current $16 billion to $25 billion by 2030.
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Agricultural Exchange: Vietnam will soon import Indian Grapes and Pomegranates, while India will welcome Vietnamese Durian and Pomelo.
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Pharma Access: An MoU between drug authorities will facilitate greater access for Indian medicines in the Vietnamese market.
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ASEAN Trade: Both sides agreed to update the AITIGA (ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement) by the end of 2026.
3. Digital & Financial Connectivity
PM Modi announced a major leap in financial integration to support tourism and business:
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Payment Linkage: India’s UPI and Vietnam’s Fast Payment System are set to be linked soon.
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Direct Flights: The Prime Minister noted the continuous growth in air connectivity as a pillar of the partnership.
4. Defense, Security, and Regional Stability
Vietnam remains a central pillar of India’s Act East Policy and Vision SAGAR (MAHASAGAR).
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Counter-Terrorism: PM Modi thanked President To Lam for Vietnam’s strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack and for standing with India against terrorism.
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Indo-Pacific: Both nations reaffirmed a common outlook for a rules-based order, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways from the Address
| Category | Strategic Highlight |
| New Status | Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership |
| Trade Goal | $25 Billion by 2030 |
| Technology | UPI-Vietnam Payment Linkage; Digitalization of Champa Manuscripts |
| Resources | Cooperation in Critical Minerals and Rare Earths |
Closing with the spirit of Buddha’s teachings, the Prime Minister remarked, “If you light a lamp for someone else, it will also brighten your own path.” He expressed confidence that as two of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India and Vietnam will realize their shared aspirations of becoming developed nations together.
