Wary of China, India offers Akash surface-to-air missile systems to Vietnam

[AMCA]

Pathetic looking missile, built on the late 50s archaic soviet era technology.

lol. Your abuses are only going to buy you some good nights sleep.

 

[Hindustani78]

S-300 PMU1 of the Vietnamese Army (all photos : Soha, Baodatviet)

 

[django]

I suspect these will go the same way as the INSAS that were offered "FREE OFF CHARGE" to the Nepalese, nobody wants worthless piece of junk PERIOD!

 

[Hindustani78]

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sushma-swaraj-to-visit-vietnam-cambodia/article24782145.ece
New Delhi , August 25, 2018 22:35 IST
Updated: August 25, 2018 22:36 IST

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will begin a four-day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia on Monday, with an aim to deepen India’s strategic cooperation with the two key nations in the ASEAN region.

“The External Affairs Minister’s visit to Vietnam and Cambodia will provide an opportunity to hold in-depth discussions with the political leadership on a wide range of global, regional and bilateral issues, and advance our strategic engagement with these countries and the ASEAN region,” the Ministry said. In Vietnam, Ms. Swaraj will co-chair the 16th meeting of the Joint Commission, along with the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh.

In her first official visit to Cambodia, Ms. Swaraj will hold extensive talks with her counterpart Prak Sokhonn, covering the entire expanse of bilateral and regional issues of mutual interests. It will be her first official visit to Cambodia.

She will call on Prime Minister Hun Sen and President of the Senate Say Chhum.

India’s ties are on an upswing with both Vietnam and Cambodia. the two major countries in the powerful ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) grouping.

India has been particularly scaling up its cooperation with Vietnam in areas of maritime security and energy.

During Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang’s visit to New Delhi in March, both the sides had vowed to join hands for an open and thriving Indo-Pacific, besides ensuring an efficient and rules-based regional security architecture.

Vietnam and several other ASEAN member countries have territorial disputes with China over the resource-rich South China Sea.

China has been opposing India’s Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) exploring oil in areas claimed by Vietnam in the South China Sea (SCS). India has been asserting that the ONGC’s exploration is a commercial operation and not connected with the dispute. Oil exploration in the SCS is a sensitive issue in the Vietnam-China relations.

 

[Hindustani78]

In this March 23, 2018, file photo, Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang greets journalists in Hanoi, Vietnam. | Photo Credit: AP


Vietnam President Tran Dai Quang, one of the country's top three leaders but with mostly ceremonial duties, died on Friday after an illness, state television and radio announced.

Quang, 61, died in a military hospital in Hanoi from a ”serious illness despite efforts by domestic and international doctors and professors,” Vietnam Television reported.

Vietnam has no paramount ruler and is officially led by the President, Prime Minister and Communist Party chief. Experts say the presidency is largely ceremonial.

Quang was appointed to the role in April, 2016. Before that, he had served as Minister of Public Security, an organisation with broad powers and a remit that includes intelligence gathering and thwarting domestic and foreign threats to the party.

Originally from a small farming community 115 km south of Hanoi, Quang rose through party ranks to become a police general and member of Vietnam's powerful decision-making Politburo.

“We are saddened to hear the news that the president has died,” said Bui Duc Phi, chairman of the village in which Quang was born.

Rumours of Quang's illness had been swirling on social media for months.

At one of his last appearances, during a visit by Indonesian President Joko Widodo to Hanoi on September 11, Quang appeared visibly unwell and stumbled as he stepped onto a platform to inspect a guard of honour.

State-owned newspaper Vietnam News said Quang hosted a reception for China's Supreme Court chief in Hanoi on Wednesday.

*******

Honours

• 
  Vietnam: Fatherland Defense Order (2011)
• 
  Vietnam: Military Exploit Order 1st class (2011)
• 
  Vietnam: Military Exploit Order 1st class (2015)
• 
  Cuba: Order of José Martí (2016)
• 
  Laos: Order of National Gold (2017)
• 
  Vietnam: Military Exploit Order 2nd class
• 
  Vietnam: Military Exploit Order 3rd class
• 
  Vietnam: Feat Order 1st class
• 
  Vietnam: Feat Order 2nd class
• 
  Vietnam: Feat Order 3rd class
• 
  Cambodia: Friendship Order 1st class

 

[Beast]

when did you ever buy "indian junk"?

https://www.google.com/amp/s/defenc...nk-insas-rifle-goes-shopping-latest-guns/amp/

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Defence
01-October, 2018 15:53 IST
High level meeting between Indian and Vietnamese Coast Guards

A High Level Meeting between Coast Guards of India and Vietnam was held at Coast Guard Headquarters here today under the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2015. Director General Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Shri Rajendra Singhled the Indian side while Commandant, Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) Major General Nguyen VanSonled a six member Vietnamese side.

During the meeting both sides agreed to strengthen mutual cooperation in accordance with the provisions of MoU. Sharing of best management practices and augmenting operational level interaction were also agreed upon.

Relations between the two Coast Guards go back a long way with ICG ships visiting Vietnam for professional interactions since 2001.This meeting is in continuation of the efforts by the governments of the two countries to enhance cooperation between the Coast Guards in the field of maritime safety and security at sea.

The Commandant along with delegation will be travelling to Chennai to take part in the welcome ceremony of the first Vietnam Coast Guard Ship to India and also participate in the joint exercise scheduled off Chennai on October 04, 2018. The VCG ship CSB 8001 is scheduled to arrive Chennai tomorrow for professional interaction and participating in the joint exercise.

The meeting was significant in providing added impetus to the already existing professional relationship between the Coast Guard of India and Vietnam.

SRR/Nampi/DK

Director General Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Shri Rajendra Singh welcoming Commandant, Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) Major General Nguyen VanSon before the High Level meeting between the two Coast Guards in New Delhi on Monday, 01 October 2018.

Director General Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Shri Rajendra Singhwith Commandant, Vietnam Coast Guard (VCG) Major General Nguyen VanSonduring the High Level meeting between the two Coast Guards in New Delhi on Monday, 01 October 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

The Party Secretary Vietnam, Mr. Ngueyn Ngoc Quang meeting the Minister of State for Tourism (I/C), Shri Alphons Kannanthanam, in New Delhi on October 17, 2018.

The Chairman of Quang Nam Provincial People’s Council, Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Quang meeting the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on October 17, 2018.

The Vietnamese delegation led by the Chairman of Quang Nam Provincial People’s Council, Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Quang meeting the Minister of State for Culture (I/C) and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, in New Delhi on October 17, 2018. The Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Arun Goel is also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

24-October, 2018 13:27 IST
High level Vietnamese delegation in Delhi for trade talkswith TPCI

A high level Vietnamese delegation from Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnamis meeting a Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) delegation, in Delhi today, to discuss avenues to enhance bilateral trade between the two countries. The delegation is led by Deputy Minister of the Ministry. He is accompanied by senior government officials and Vietnamese businessmen from the agriculture sector. The Vietnamese ambassador to India will also be present in the meeting. The TPCI delegation is led by its Chairman.

Vietnamese and TPCI delegations will discuss business opportunities and future cooperation between India and Vietnam as well as ways and means to promote Indusfood in Vietnam.

Vietnam is seeing high economic growth and expansion of trade and investment, which has resulted in Vietnam moving out of the category of Least Developed Country (LDC) and become part of new lower middle income country (MIC). It has also seen sharp truncation in poverty levels, which has resulted in bolstering the growth of GDP, currently estimated at USD 200.8 billion.

India-Vietnam bilateral trade stood at USD 7.8 billion in 2015-16 with India maintaining a positive trade balance. During 2016, 16 MoUs were signed between the two countries during the visits of Indian Prime Minister to Vietnam and Vietnamese President to India. These agreements focused on information technology, cyber security, health, software development and training, aviation, shipping, civil nuclear cooperation. All these sectors are crucial in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and expanding the Vietnam-India comprehensive strategic partnership

Though India is an agrarian exporter, broadly it’s trade basket is complimentary and there is immense scope for increasing bilateral trade. Also, trade in services is another way for enhancing India’s trade, as under India-ASEAN services trade agreement, mobility of skilled and semi-skilled labourers has been liberalized andit can be used as a policy instrument.

Vietnam requires technological assistance for its socio-economic and trade logistics development for which India is an appropriate partner. Both countries have identified biotechnology in agriculture and healthcare, technology for new materials, IT and electronics, super-computing, nuclear energy for peaceful uses, science and technology, remote sensing and non-traditional energy for expanding trade and investment and achieving the target of USD 15 billion worth of bilateral trade by 2020.

During the meeting, the two sides are also expected to discuss ways to strengthen their relationship further, including tie-ups in food and beverage sector. Vietnam is an importer of rapeseed and there is scope to promote Indian fruits like oranges.

Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI) is an apex trade body under the Ministry of Commerce which focuses on promoting and facilitating trade, with focus on agri and food, education, IT and entertainment as also chemicals, plastic and telecom sectors.

***

MM/ SB

 

[Hindustani78]

The Commander-in-Chief, Vietnam People’s Air Force and Air Defence, Lt. Gen. Le Huy Vinh inspecting the Guard of Honour, in New Delhi on October 25, 2018.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa and the Commander-in-Chief, Vietnam People’s Air Force and Air Defence, Lt. Gen. Le Huy Vinh, at the delegation level talks, in New Delhi on October 25, 2018.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa and the Commander-in-Chief, Vietnam People’s Air Force and Air Defence, Lt. Gen. Le Huy Vinh exchanging the memento, in New Delhi on October 25, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Vietnam opposes military alliances in region: Vietnamese Ambassador
NEW DELHI, November 15, 2018 22:48 IST
Updated: November 15, 2018 22:50 IST

Nation’s stand on Quad ‘ambivalent’, says Ambassador Chau

Republic of India has an “ambivalent” position on the Quad grouping comprising Republic of India, Republic of South Korea , Republic of Japan, and the Republic of Singapore., Vietnamese Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau said on Thursday. Elaborating, Vietnamese said while Vietnam welcomed any country’s initiative to preserve freedom of navigation and overflight in the region, it was opposed to any military alliance that could undermine regional peace and security.

Sounding an “ambivalent” note on the Quad grouping between Republic of India, Republic of South Korea , Republic of Japan, and the Republic of Singapore, Vietnam Ambassador Pham Sanh Chau said on Thursday that they welcome any initiative by any country to preserve freedom of navigation and over flight in the region but do not want any military alliance that is not conducive for peace and security.

Differences in Singapore
The Vietnamese Ambassador’s comments came even as officials from the Quad grouping comprising Republic of India, Republic of South Korea , Republic of Japan, and the Republic of Singapore met in Republic of Singapore on Thursday. In a sign that the four countries continued to have differences on the objectives of the grouping, each of the four sides issued separate statements.

“If any country wants to gang up, use force or trying to use force, then it goes against the position of Vietnam,” Vietnam Ambassador who just assumed charge in New Delhi, said in response to questions on the Quad. The Ambassador added that Vietnam did not want the region to become a “theatre” for power play by major powers.

“We will not join any alliance in order to fight any third country,” Vietnam Ambassador asserted.

According to the Indian Military Centre Command Core in Delhi, the Quad countries comprising Republic of India, Republic of South Korea , Republic of Japan, and the Republic of Singapore agreed to “strengthening connectivity and quality infrastructure” in the region according to principles of sovereignty and economic viability. While Republic of India and Republic of Japan are already cooperating on a number of projects in South Asia, which are seen as a counter to projects China is planning under the Belt and Road Initiative, there are as yet no ‘Quad’ level projects.

“Quad countries comprising Republic of India, Republic of South Korea , Republic of Japan, and the Republic of Singapore agreed to partner with other countries and forums in the region to promote a free, open, rules-based and inclusive order in the Indo-Pacific that fosters trust and confidence,” the Indian Military Centre Command Core said in the statement. That suggests that the Quadrilateral would not be an exclusive grouping on maritime security in the region, with the ministry stressing “ASEAN centrality as the cornerstone of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.”

President of Republic of India, Shri Ramnath Kovind to address assembly

Briefing the media on President of Republic of India, Shri Ramnath Kovind’s upcoming visit to Vietnam, from November 18 to 20, Vietnam Ambassador said the President would address the Vietnamese national assembly. “He is only the second foreign head of state ever to address the assembly,” he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping was the first foreign leader to do so.

Priorities

Vietnam Ambassador said his major priorities in Republic of India would include helping establish a direct flight between the two countries, bringing Vietnam’s national television service to New Delhi, and clearing hurdles to improved bilateral trade especially in certain fruits.

Observing that the Vietnamese media and Indian media were yet to provide a better understanding of the people of Republic of India and Vietnam, Vietnam Ambassador said he hoped to introduce Vietnam Television to New Delhi.

“Right now we buy news from western media, which is very biased,” Vietnam Ambassador said, adding that they did not talk about the diversity in India, the country’s development, and its middle power status.

 

[Hindustani78]

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind being received by the Chairman of the President’s Office, Mr. Dao Viet Trung, on his arrival, at Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind being received by the Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr. Vuong Dinh Hue, at the Vietnam-India Business Forum, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

President's Secretariat
19-November, 2018 18:51 IST
Address by the Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind at Indian Community and friends of India reception

1. I am delighted to meet you. I am honoured to be paying a State Visit to Vietnam. I thank you for your warm and affectionate welcome. I wish to convey my deep appreciation and respect for the monks and nuns of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha who have welcomed me with their traditional drum ceremony.
2. India-Vietnam friendship is civilizational. Our relations have been exceptionally warm and cordial. Our people have stood by each other during most difficult times. Our founding fathers - Mahatma Gandhi and President Ho Chi Minh have guided us on a shared path. I have come here to deepen those enduring ties. I look forward to my official engagements with President Phu Trong tomorrow. I will also have the honour to address the Vietnamese National Assembly. I am thankful to the government of Vietnam for according me this very special gesture.
3. The Buddhist Sangha is an important institution promoting friendship between our two countries. Through them we have nurtured our ties with compassion, kindness and blessings of Lord Buddha. The Buddhist monks were as active in promoting our relations in ancient times as they are today. Monks and merchants brought Indian culture, philosophy and religion to the shores of Vietnam. Buddhism, Hinduism, Brahmi script and Sanskrit language soon, thereafter, took roots in this country. I had the privilege to visit the world famous Cham temples yesterday and to see the deep imprint of these exchanges on this ancient land and its proud people. As a tribute to our age-old ties, I planted a banyan tree there, a symbol of our shared spiritual journey.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. As a friend and partner, we take immense pride in Vietnam’s spectacular achievements. Over the years, this country has made huge socio-economic advances. Sustained high levels of economic growth, combined with vision and foresight of its leadership, has seen rapid progress and prosperity. Per capita GDP in this country has gone up from less than US$ 100 in 1990 to over US$ 2500 today making a huge difference in the lives of ordinary citizens. Agricultural growth has been a key driver of this remarkable feat. As a development partner, we feel privileged to have contributed to Vietnam’s agricultural revolution and food security. Today, Vietnam is a star among the emerging markets and is highly integrated with the global economy. Like India, it is a young demography, and like us, making every effort to meet the aspirations of its young people.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. India and Vietnam have been together in a cultural journey for ages. And now both of us are on a similar transformational economic path. India is today the fastest growing major economy in the world, with a growth rate of 8.2% last quarter. Our knowledge and innovation driven industry has made a mark for itself the world over. We are making steady progress towards becoming a 5 trillion economy and the 3rd largest consumer market in the world by 2025. Vietnam’s rise and growth is equally impressive.
2. We have undertaken path breaking economic reforms including the introduction of Goods and Services Tax that has realized our long-held dream of making India into “One Nation, One Tax, One Market”. Our policy measures have seen us jump 65 places in the World Bank Ease of Doing Business in the last four years. And while we are pursuing economic growth, we are also equally conscious of our social equity goals. Women empowerment has been at the centre of all our socio-economic programmes, be it MUDRA - our micro-credit lending scheme or Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao that is Save Girl Child - Educate Girl Child Scheme.
3. During the visit of our Prime Minister to Vietnam in September 2016, we had decided to elevate our bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cooperation in defence industry, hydrocarbons, energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and healthcare were identified to enhance collaboration. Our intent has translated into concrete results. I am happy to learn that today, India is one of Vietnam’s top trading partners and we have seen a major jump in our bilateral trade and investment relations.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. The Indian community in Vietnam is small in number. But it plays an important part in promoting bilateral ties and creating opportunities for the local economy and society. The Indian community in Vietnam has many accomplishments to itself. Through hard work and dedication, you have earned a name for yourself and pride for us. Our IT professionals and technology entrepreneurs are helping build digital pathways in this country. Our ancient links and modern ties with this country place very high expectations on you from your Vietnamese friends. But I must say, you have most respectfully lived up to those - bringing the best of India to Vietnam be it art, culture or our familial ethos. I am told Yoga is immensely popular in Vietnam and is a strong binding element between our two societies. Our common sensibilities have also made Indian television serials and films have a wider and appreciative audience here.
2. India is on a transformative journey. In our quest for peace, prosperity and development, Indian citizens abroad and the overseas Indian community serve us as equal partners. There are new opportunities and possibilities opening up for you to connect, collaborate and grow with India. I encourage you to join us in this journey, as knowledge partners, as investors and as cultural ambassadors.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Our Government has made it a priority to reach out to our overseas community. There is new and vibrant connect between us and our Diaspora today. To serve them better, we have strengthened our Embassies to provide round the clock service, so that no one in need is left unattended. We are utilizing social media platforms and digital programmes such as MADAD to deliver efficient public services. We have reached out to those in dire need, from Yemen to Venezuela, caught in violence, crisis or natural disasters. And not just to Indians alone, but to people of over 50 other countries.
2. Next year, we are celebrating the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Varanasi from 21st to 23rd January. I invite you to join us in this special festivity of our Diaspora. We have begun the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi this year. I do hope you will come forward and help us illuminate his life and legacy in this country.
3. I also invite you to visit Rashtrapati Bhavan whenever you are in India. It may be my official residence but it is a place of pride for all Indians, and as such belongs to me as much to you.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. I convey my appreciation for the efforts of the Vietnam-India Friendship Association, the Vietnam Union of Friendship Association and the India Studies Department of Universities here in promoting a greater understanding of India in this country. I also thank the Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam for playing an active role in engaging the Indian community. More importantly, I thank our Vietnamese friends for extending a welcome hand to all Indians living in this country.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. India and Vietnam share similar opportunities and challenges. We must come together with pride and purpose and help each other grow and prosper. Let the age-old thought and wisdom of the Mekong and the Ganga guide us on this path.

Thank you.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing at the Indian Community Reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Vietnam, Shri P. Harish, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the Indian Community Reception hosted by the Ambassador of India to Vietnam, Shri P. Harish, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

*****

President's Secretariat
19-November, 2018 18:48 IST
Address by the Hon’ble President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the Vietnam-India business forum

1. I am delighted to address the Vietnam-India Business Forum. I am honoured to be paying a State Visit to Vietnam, a country with which we have historic and special ties. I thank the Government of Vietnam for their warmth and excellent hospitality.
2. I extend my warm wishes to the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Indian business chambers – the Confederation of Indian Industry, the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry - who have worked hard, and worked together as a team, to organize this event. I am happy that you have had a fruitful day of discussions on how to take forward our trade, technology and investment relations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. India and Vietnam are old civilizations. We have ancient cultural and spiritual connections. But the story of our engagement is much broader. Traders and merchants from India brought goods and commodities to the shores of Vietnam long before the arrival of cultural thought and expression. There was a flourishing maritime connect in the days gone by. And, to our desire, trade continues to be a driving force in our contemporary partnership. In the last 8 years, we have seen almost four fold increase in bilateral trade, from US$ 3.7 billion in 2010 to US$ 12.8 last year. With both Vietnam and India on a strong growth path, we can expect this trend to continue apace.
2. Vietnam and India are not just special friends; we also have a similar economic vision and approach. Vietnam has seen spectacular economic growth in the last two decades. This has allowed reduction of the poverty rate from over 70% in the 1990s to less than 10% now. The increase in per capita GDP of Vietnam from less than US$ 100 in 1990 to over US$ 2500 today is a remarkable achievement with very few parallels in the developing world. I congratulate the people and government of Vietnam on this stupendous success.
3. Like Vietnam, India too has been focused on reforming its economy, increasing its growth rate, and realizing the full potential of its young citizens. In April-July quarter of this year, the GDP growth of Indian economy was 8.2%, highest among the large economies. By 2025, India’s GDP is expected to double to US$ 5 trillion from the current US$ 2.5 trillion. With country wide sweep of digital connectivity, transformative economic reforms, favorable demographics and a vibrant start-up ecosystem, India is also expected to be the third largest consumer market by 2025. We have started work to build next-generation infrastructure including 100 Smart cities, 7 high-speed train corridors and nationwide broadband connectivity. Last year alone, we built 10,000 kilometers of national highways – that is an average of 27 kilometers daily!
4. Transformative reforms such as the introduction of Goods and Services Tax has made India, a country of 1.3 billion people, into One Nation, One Tax, One Market for the first time in her history. On the success of this and other reforms, India has jumped 65 places- from 142 in 2014 to 77 in 2018 - in the World Bank Doing Ease of Business Index. Our macro-economic indicators are robust: inflation well under control at 3.3%; foreign exchange reserves at a healthy US$ 400 billion and our Foreign Direct Investment flows at over US$ 200 billion in the last 4 years.
5. We have also been conscious to combine growth with equity. Our financial inclusion programme Jan Dhan Yojana has seen 330 million bank accounts opened for the poor and needy. Our micro-credit scheme MUDRA has disbursed 128 million loans worth US$ 90 billion, 74% of these beneficiaries being women! These initiatives have unleashed a new energy for the growth of microenterprises, entrepreneurship and selfe-mployment.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Vietnam and India business partnership speaks for itself. With matching growth and lucrative business prospects on both sides, there is little convincing to be done. All of you are sitting in the middle of manifold possibilities. Indian growth presents opportunities for two-way engagement in financial services, IT, digital economy, hydrocarbons, defence, renewable energy, mining, healthcare, tourism and civil aviation sectors. We want Vietnam to collaborate with us in our flagship programmes - Make In India, Clean India, Start-up India and Digital India. We are also keen to learn from it in the tourism and urban infrastructure sectors.
2. On the trade front, we are doing well. We are on track to achieve our target of US$ 15 billion bilateral trade by the year 2020. Vietnam is a very important trading partner of India in ASEAN and India is now among the top 10 trading partners of Vietnam.
3. Agriculture has been a key sector of our cooperation involving trade, investment and training. We feel privileged to have supported the Vietnamese agricultural revolution through the establishment of Cuu Long Rice Research Institute. Vietnam is a huge agricultural economy with agro-marine-forestry exports surpassing US$ 35 billion last year. Agricultural products already occupy over 45% of our bilateral trade. Agro-processing, agro-chemicals, farm machinery, biotechnology and high-tech farming hold immense potential for bilateral cooperation. Indian industry can also learn from Vietnam’s success in crops such as coffee, pepper, cashew, fruits and vegetables.
4. The Indian pharmaceuticals industry, globally speaking, is the third largest in terms of volume and the world’s largest provider of generic drugs. They can partner Vietnam in providing quality healthcare, medicines and medical devices for the public health system at an affordable cost. Indian pharmaceutical companies are also looking at domestic production opportunities in Vietnam. There are huge prospects for promoting medical and wellness tourism both ways as well.
5. Both India and Vietnam are leading players in the textile industry. We must cooperate further to facilitate integration of value chains. Likewise, there are significant opportunities in the oil and gas, power, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. In India, we have set a target to reach solar and wind energy generation capacity of 175 Gigawatt by 2022. With their global and cutting edge-expertise and experience, Indian renewable majors are ready to partner Vietnam.
6. Indian IT services including digital economy and fin-tech sector have much to offer to Vietnamese growth. We must encourage our start-up sectors and innovation based industry to leverage each other. The Indian start-up ecosystem ranks third globally. This year has been particularly successful for us, with over 1200 tech-startups taking wings. We must also learn from each other on how to improve productivity; how to approach the Fourth Industrial Revolution; how to promote innovation and entrepreneurship; and not the least, how to leverage technology for governance.

Ladies and gentlemen,

1. Vietnam-India economic relations are on a steady path. We have made significant achievement no doubt, but a lot more is waiting to happen. The energy and enthusiasm in this room, in this city and in this country are an indication of the opportunities before us. I invite Indian and Vietnamese businesses to partner in each other for trade, technology and investment collaboration. I once again thank the Government of Vietnam and all Industry stakeholders for making today’s business forum a success.

Thank you.

*****



AKT/VJ/SBP

President's Secretariat
19-November, 2018 18:44 IST
President of India in Vietnam; addresses Vietnam-India business forum, reviews ASI-supported restoration project in ancient temple complex

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, reached Hanoi today (November 19, 2018) as part of his two-nation state visit to Vietnam and Australia. Later in the afternoon, the President addressed the Vietnam-India Business Forum in the Vietnamese capital. Speaking at the Business Forum event, the President said India and Vietnam are old civilisational friends, and trade is a driving force of our contemporary partnership. In the past eight years, there has been an almost four-fold increase in bilateral trade, from US$ 3.7 billion in 2010 to US$ 12.8 billion in 2017. With both Vietnam and India on a path of high growth, this trend is expected to continue.

The President said the Vietnam-India business relationship presents prospects for engagement in financial services, IT and the digital economy, hydrocarbons, defence, renewable energy, mining, healthcare, tourism and civil aviation, among other sectors. The President said Vietnam is a very important trading partner for India within ASEAN, and India is now among the 10 largest trading partners of Vietnam. He emphasised that Vietnam-India economic relations have made significant achievements, but a lot more is waiting to happen. He invited Indian and Vietnamese businesses to partner each other for enhanced trade as well as technology and investment collaboration.

Later in the evening, the President addressed an impressive gathering of the Indian community andfriends of India in Vietnam at a reception hosted by Shri P. Harish, Ambassador of India to Vietnam.

Addressing the gathering, the President said the Buddhist Sangha is an important institution promoting friendship between India and Vietnam. He noted that Buddhist monks were as active in nurturing our relations in ancient times as they are today. The President said the Indian community in Vietnam plays a strong role in creating opportunities for the local economy and society. He appreciated the efforts of the Vietnam-India Friendship Association, the Vietnam Union of Friendship Association and the India Studies Departments of Vietnamese universities in working towards a greater understanding of India.

Yesterday afternoon (November 18, 2018), President Kovind began his state visit to Vietnam when he landed in Da Nang. Later in the evening on November 18, he met the local leadership of the Da Nang People’s Committee and attended a banquet in his honour. This morning (November 19, 2018), the President visited the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which has an impressive collection of Cham civilisation sculptures and carvings, including many inspired by Hinduism and Buddhism.

President Kovind also visited the My Son temple complex in Kwangnan province, where the oldest temples have been dated to the fourth century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the My Son temple complex is among Vietnam’s most cherished cultural treasures. The ancient temples are being restored with support from the Archaeological Survey of India, and the President was briefed on the restoration project.

*****

AKT/VJ/SBP

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture, at Da Nang, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture, at Da Nang, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture, at Da Nang, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the Museum of Cham Sculpture, at Da Nang, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind visiting My Son - UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind planting a sapling during his visit at My Son - UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Vietnam on November 19, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

President's Secretariat
20-November, 2018 12:30 IST
Address by the President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the National Assembly of Vietnam

1. It is an honour for me to be addressing the National Assembly and through it the people of Vietnam. I would like to thank the members of this Assembly, who represent all regions of your country, and particularly Madam Chairperson for extending the invitation. And I would like to thank President Nguyen Phu Trong and the government and people of Vietnam for the warm hospitality accorded to my delegation and me over the past two days.

1. For India, all diplomatic engagements are important but some relationships are special. Our friendship with Vietnam is certainly special. Vietnam is the first ASEAN and Southeast Asian country I am visiting in my capacity as President of India. In fact, this is my first state visit to any nation to the east of India. Vietnam is always on our minds, and always in our hearts. It is pivotal to India’s “Act East” policy.

1. The strength of engagement between two countries is represented by their bilateral calendar. Four years ago, my predecessor, President Pranab Mukherjee, came to Vietnam. Two years later, in 2016, our Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, arrived for a landmark visit that upgraded our linkages to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The year 2018 has been even more intense. In January, I had the opportunity to welcome Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan to our Republic Day celebrations, at which he was Chief Guest, along with leaders of other ASEAN countries. In March, we were privileged to host the late President Tran Dai Quang. His sudden passing was a shock for all of us. He was a great patriot and an ardent advocate of India-Vietnam relations. I offer condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India, and on my own part as well.

1. I would take this opportunity to congratulate General Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong for the overwhelming confidence reposed in him by the Party and the National Assembly and for assuming the responsibility of President of Vietnam. I am confident that India-Vietnam relations will prosper with his support, guidance and leadership.

1. India’s association with Vietnam has many aspects. We have robust business, political and people-to-people bonds. We exchange parliamentary visits, as members of this Assembly are no doubt familiar. We are both ancient maritime nations and are stakeholders in the commerce, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region. Above all, we share the same values. Our founding fathers taught us to dream the same dreams – dreams for ourselves, dreams for each other, dreams for post-colonial nations everywhere, and dreams for the future and for our children.

1. I would like to point out that 2019 is of great significance. In India, it marks the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and in Vietnam it is being commemorated as the 50th anniversary of the passing of the great Ho Chi Minh. These revolutionary figures inspired our respective countries to attain political freedom. They remain inspirations for not just Vietnam and India but for the entire Asian continent and the global community. The coming year once again links these two remarkable personalities, and unites our countries.

1. The values of liberty, freedom and integrity that Gandhiji and President Ho Chi Minh espoused are rooted in our shared history – a history of scholarship and mutual learning, and of abiding Buddhist and Hindu spiritual connections. The enlightened path of the Buddha has brought our countries closer. Buddhism’s journey as a world religion began from India, and in Vietnam it acquired a unique identity, embedded in local culture. Buddhist monks and nuns travelled far and wide, carrying with them the cargo of compassion – and also showing the way to traders and businesspersons. Buddhism created an early form of globalisation and of connectedness across our ocean.

1. Yesterday, in Da Nang, I saw glimpses of Vietnam’s rich heritage when I visited the Museum of Cham Culture and the My Son temple complex, where, I was happy to note, the Archaeological Survey of India is contributing to the restoration of your cultural marvels. Almost 2,000 years ago, the Cham kingdom symbolised one of history’s great civilisations. From Vietnam, it traded across the ocean – its ships carrying goods as far west as India and West Asia. It is believed that ancient Vietnam had flourishing maritime and trade links with southern India’s Pallava and Chola kingdoms.

1. Those pioneering travellers and pilgrims promoted fraternal relations between cultures and countries – but within a framework of restraint and self-discipline, sustainability and accommodation. These are important lessons from Lord Buddha that are relevant for us even today

Members of the National Assembly,

1. The historical values and lessons I referred to have also shaped India’s approach to socio-economic development. We believe in development that is people-centric, that adds value to rather than adds a burden to local communities; that respects and conserves nature and the environment and is not extractive; and that challenges and disincentivises corruption and related practices. In India we are deeply appreciative of the rapid progress made by Vietnam in recent years. Poverty levels here were at over 70 per cent in the 1990s but are below 10 per cent today. India too is on course to eliminating extreme poverty by 2030.

1. Our economy and society are going through a massive change. Technology is transforming the way we live and work, and empowering local communities. Digital India and the humble mobile phone are bridging physical gaps – whether enhancing communication or providing virtual bank accounts to those in remote locations. A start-up ecosystem, one of the largest in the world, is leveraging technology and relatively frugal capital to promote entrepreneurship among young people, among self-driven men and women, and even among farmers looking for a wider market for their produce. Our space programme is launching satellites for several friendly countries as well as providing invaluable data on weather and soil patterns for those of our citizens engaged in agriculture. We are preparing to send an Indian into space. India will be happy to share its developmental experiences with Vietnam as per your country’s priorities.

1. Such ideals shape India’s international cooperation. Take the challenge of climate change. It poses a danger to all humankind, but coastal nations such as India and Vietnam feel the pressure that much more. While many steps are needed, a push towards renewable energy is essential. It is with this in mind that India hosted the founding conference of the International Solar Alliance earlier this year. The ISA is an international body headquartered in India, but with implications for our entire planet. I invite Vietnam to become an active part of the ISA family.

1. Climate change is not the only question mark looming before the Indo-Pacific Region. This ocean system is a resource for Vietnam and India and for so many other countries and communities. Vietnam and India share a vision for the Indo-Pacific Region, of which the South China Sea is a critical component. We share a vision of a rules-based order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensures freedom of navigation and over-flight, as well as unimpeded commerce. Our shared vision seeks peaceful resolution of disputes, with full respect for legal and diplomatic processes in accordance with principles of international law, including those reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

1. In this context, India looks forward to enhanced bilateral cooperation in the maritime domain – for instance, through our first Bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue to be hosted by Vietnam in early 2019. Maritime security, piracy, and drug trafficking using the oceans are issues of common concern. I am confident that the programme of regular and friendly visits to each other’s ports by naval and coast guard ships from our countries will upgrade cooperation.

1. Such confidence is only enhanced by the knowledge that Vietnam will be taking over the ASEAN Chair in 2020. India has consistently supported ASEAN’s unity and centrality and ASEAN-led mechanisms for regional security and economic architecture – to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region. India offers a cooperation model that does not require its friends to make choices but rather expands choices and expands opportunities for all; that opens not one but many roads.

1. Beyond our region, India and Vietnam remain committed to cooperation in areas of emerging risk such as cyber-security, and in multilateral organisations. Hard-won gains of international governance and of globalisation must be nurtured. The world community must respond collectively to worldwide challenges. India is thankful to Vietnam for its support in building consensus for an early adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. At the root of India’s and Vietnam’s national endeavours are the aspirations and the prosperity of our people. Enhancing business relations and physical connectivity between our countries is vital for this. We are both dynamic economies. Vietnam has had an impressive, export-driven growth, and India is today the world’s fastest growing large economy. Bilateral trade touched US$ 12.8 billion in the past year and India is one of Vietnam’s top 10 trading partners. For India too Vietnam and ASEAN are crucial to its trade basket. A high-level business delegation is accompanying me, and yesterday I addressed the Vietnam-India Business Forum. I am certain that enterprising businesspersons from our countries will help us reach new trade benchmarks.

1. There is scope for cooperation and complementarities in textiles and agriculture and agricultural technologies, in biotech and IT, in energy and pharmaceuticals, and in infrastructure and minerals. Indian investors, Indian manufacturers and Indian services providers look to Vietnam with much excitement.

1. And so do, I must say, the rest of the people of India. Back home, Vietnamese food is becoming more and more popular – and a society of tea drinkers has acquired a taste for Vietnamese coffee. I am keen that tourism between Vietnam and India expands and direct flights in the period ahead help more and more of our citizens to visit each other’s countries. In the ultimate analysis, the people-to-people network between Vietnam and India – an inheritor of one of the oldest people-to-people networks in Asia and the Indo-Pacific – is the foundation and the edifice of our partnership.

1. With those words, and with a renewed thank you to Madam Chairperson and the members of this Assembly for having hosted me, I conclude my address. May the wisdom of Lord Buddha and may his message of embracing compassion and cooperation continue to guide our people, our countries and our shared oceanic region.

Thank you!

*****

AKT/KP/SBP

President's Secretariat
20-November, 2018 12:08 IST
Media statement by the President of India on his visit to Vietnam

1. At the outset, I wish to express my profound gratitude to you, Your Excellency, for the gracious warmth and welcome extended to me and my delegation. Your special words reflect our civilisational friendship and the depth of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
2. This is my first visit to South-East Asia and to the ASEAN region as the President of India. I also come 60 years after the 11-day historic State Visit of President Ho Chi Minh to India in 1958.
3. I am glad that my first visit in the ASEAN region has been to Vietnam, a strategic pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and our key interlocutor in ASEAN.
4. As Comprehensive Strategic Partners, India and Vietnam have a strong bilateral relationship based on mutual trust, understanding, convergence of views on regional and international issues and strong cooperation in regional and multilateral fora.
5. I began my official engagement in this historic city with my address to the National Assembly. I am truly and deeply honoured by this special gesture shown to me, my people and my country.
6. My talks with President Phu Trong were extensive and productive. Our discussions covered the full range of bilateral and multilateral cooperation. We reiterated the importance of building a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region on the basis of respect for national sovereignty and international law.
7. We have agreed to further strengthen our bilateral cooperation in defence, peaceful uses of atomic energy and outer space, science and technology, oil and gas, infrastructure development, agriculture and innovation-based sectors. We have signed three MOUs, namely in the fields of communications, education and trade and investment to take our bilateral agenda forward.
8. We committed to further deepen our defence and security cooperation. I reiterated India’s commitment to provide training support for Vietnam Armed Forces. We also reviewed the implementation of the Line of Credit of US$ 100 million for building high-speed patrol vessels for Vietnamese Border Guards.
9. We condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestation and agreed to strengthen global fight against this menace. We expressed satisfaction that the two countries would soon begin dialogue on strengthening maritime security cooperation.
10. We agreed to encourage our industry to tap into the growing economic opportunities in our own countries and in the region. India-Vietnam economic relations are on an upswing. Our bilateral trade last year stood at US$ 12.8 billion. I am confident that our efforts in facilitating our business interactions, such as the Vietnam-India Business Forum that I attended yesterday in Hanoi, will enable us to achieve our bilateral trade target of US$ 15 billion by 2020.
11. Our cultural similarities are a strong binding element of our friendship. As a tribute to our shared heritage, I began my State Visit from Da Nang, where I visited the Cham temples. It is a matter of great pride for us that the Archaeological Survey of India is undertaking the restoration of three temple groups at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son.
12. India and Vietnam have been linked together over the centuries through trade and the message of compassion and kindness of Lord Buddha.
13. The affection shown by the friendly Vietnamese people has touched my heart. I will always cherish my visit to your beautiful country.

Thank you!



*****
AKT/KP/SBP

President's Secretariat
20-November, 2018 12:00 IST
President of India addresses National Assembly of Vietnam; leads delegation-level talks; says Vietnam is pivotal to India’s “Act East” policy

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, addressed the National Assembly of Vietnam today (November 20, 2018) in Hanoi, on the final day of his visit to Vietnam. He also held bilateral meetings with the President of Vietnam as well as led delegation-level talks. On the occasion, the two countries signed and exchanged four agreements:

• An agreement between the Ministry of Information and Communications of Vietnam and the Ministry of Communications of India
• An agreement of cooperation between the Department of Foreign Affairs of Provinces, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam, and the Indian Business Chamber in Vietnam
• An academic agreement between the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, Hanoi, and the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• An agreement between the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Addressing members of the National Assembly this morning, President Kovind noted that Vietnam is the first ASEAN and Southeast Asian country he is visiting in his capacity as President of India. Vietnam is always on our minds, he said, and always in our hearts. It is pivotal to India’s “Act East” policy. The President emphasised that India’s association with Vietnam has many aspects. We have robust business, political and people-to-people bonds. We are both stakeholders in the commerce, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region.

The President said that India offers a cooperation model that does not require its friends to make choices but rather expands choices and expands opportunities for all; that opens not one but many roads. India has consistently supported ASEAN’s unity and centrality and ASEAN-led mechanisms for regional security and economic architecture – to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region.

The President said that the ocean system is a resource for Vietnam and India and for many other countries and communities. Vietnam and India share a vision for the Indo-Pacific Region, of which the South China Sea is a critical component. We share a vision of a rules-based order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity, ensures freedom of navigation and over-flight, as well as unimpeded, lawful commerce.

The President said that India looks forward to enhanced bilateral cooperation in the maritime domain – for instance, through our first Bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue to be hosted by Vietnam in early 2019. Maritime security, piracy, and drug trafficking using the oceans are issues of common concern. “I am confident,” President Kovind said, “that the programme of regular and friendly visits to each other’s ports by naval and coast guard ships from our countries will upgrade cooperation.”

In a separate engagement this morning, the President paid his respects at the monument of National Heroes and Martyrs as well as at the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Later, he visited the Presidential Palace, where he was received by President Nguyen Phu Trong and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

During the subsequent discussions with President Nguyen Phu Trong, the President thanked him for his gracious hospitality. The President said that he had a memorable visit to Da Nang yesterday. The Cham temples are a fascinating aspect of our shared heritage. Subsequently, the President led the Indian side in delegation-level talks. He said Indian investors are keen to strengthen their presence in Vietnam. India seeks Vietnam’s support in facilitating Indian investments in sectors like renewable energy, infrastructure, agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and oil and gas. India also looks forward to cooperation with Vietnam in improving agricultural productivity.

The President issued a media statement on his visit to Vietnam.

Later this afternoon, the President will have a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This will be followed soon after by a banquet hosted in honour of the President of India by the President of Vietnam, Mr Nguyen Phu Trong. Thereafter, President Kovind will emplane for Sydney, Australia – on the final leg of his two-nation visit to Vietnam and Australia.

Click here to access President's address at the National Assembly of Vietnam

Click here to access President's Media Statement on his visit to Vietnam



*****



AKT/KP/SBP

Ministry of Defence
20-November, 2018 17:14 IST
Visit of General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff to Vietnam

General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff is scheduled to visit Vietnam from 22 to 25 November 2018 on an official bilateral visit. During the visit, the Chief of the Army Staff led delegation will meet and interact with senior military hierarchy of Vietnam. The Chief of the Army Staff shall also visit key military formations and establishments. The Army Chief is scheduled to meet and interact with General Ngo Xuan Lich, Defence Minister and Senior Lieutenant General Pham Hong Huong, Deputy Chief of the General Staff during the visit.

General Bipin Rawat will visit Headquarters of an Infantry Division near Hanoi and Headquarters of 7 Military Region at Ho Chi Minh.

During visit of Hon’ble Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi to Vietnam in 2016 the relationship was upgraded to comprehensive strategic partnership. Defence cooperation has increased exponentially over the last few years amongst all services including exchange programmes, training assistance and cooperation on various service specific issues.

The visit will be yet another milestone in giving impetus to the strategic partnership between India and Vietnam and taking forward the military to military cooperation to the next level.


Col Chiranjeet Konwer
for PRO (Army)

 

[Hindustani78]

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind addressing at the National Assembly House of Vietnam, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind meeting the Chairperson of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Mrs. Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind paying homage at the Monument of National Heroes and Martyrs, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind paying homage at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind meeting the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr. Nguyen Xuan Phuc, at the Government House, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

The President, Shri Ram Nath Kovind at the delegation level talks between India and Vietnam, at the Presidential Palace, at Hanoi, in Vietnam on November 20, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

November 24, 2018 00:02 IST
Updated: November 24, 2018 07:30 IST

Vietnam is crucial to India’s Look East Policy — bilateral ties must build on common concerns among the Allied Nations.

President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind’s choice of Vietnam as the first Southeast Asian country to visit in his capacity as the President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind is not surprising. A close ‘ally’ of China for over 70 years, and not limited to official diplomatic ties, Vietnam is critical for Republic of India’s foreign policy at the regional and systemic levels. While President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind’s visit highlights the ‘normal’ trajectory of a presidential visit, there is a need to understand how Vietnam has calibrated its domestic and foreign policy shifts and where India’s relevance can fit into these policy changes.

Domestically, since the start of its Doi Moi policy — its political and economic renewal campaign —in 1986, Vietnam has made dramatic strides. Today it is a rapidly growing, regional economic giant, showing both dynamism and pragmatism in its calculations. While earlier it imported agricultural products, today it is a major exporter. Agricultural competence has furthered Vietnam’s entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership . The Vietnam National Assembly ratified the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership on November 12, asserting its growing economic impact globally, with exports increasing to approximately $240 billion for the year 2018. Membership to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership , which accounts for nearly 14% of the global GDP, will boost Vietnam’s economic growth, from 6.8 % in 2017-18, by a further 1.1% to 3.5% by 2030. One of the core areas of President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind’s visit focussed on furthering cooperation in agriculture and innovation-based sectors, pushing the potential for increasing bilateral trade to $15 billion by 2020.

Common ground of health
An area of potential convergence for both Vietnam and Republic of India is health care. The 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam, in 2016, highlighted the importance of linking economic growth to universal health care, whereby 80% population would be covered by health insurance. Republic of India too, since 2011, has been focussing on the need to deliver accessible and affordable health insurance to weaker sections of society. With Republic of Indonesia ratifying the India-ASEAN Services agreement on November 13, New Delhi is a step closer to signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, bringing India to the forefront of the services sector globally. A potential area of convergence in the realm of health care through joint public-private partnership agreements can be explored by the two countries.

Internationally, Vietnam’s foreign policy is characterised by ‘multidirectionalism’, which addresses regional asymmetries of the power balance by engaging across a broad spectrum of states to achieve its interests. Increasingly, this asymmetrical power structure in the region, offset by the rise of China, is bringing regional and extra-regional states together to address the shifts in the normative order. Within this context, Vietnam even normalised relations with the U.S., its former opponent, credit for which is given to the late U.S. Senator, John McCain.

Security concerns
Today there is increasing commonality of security concerns between Vietnam and its ASEAN partners — as well as with Australia, Republic of India, Kingdom of Japan and the United States of America, particularly in the areas of maritime security and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. A former Vietnamese President, Trân Đai Quang, had earlier this year endorsed the term Indo-Asia-Pacific. Similarly, President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind’s speech in the Vietnamese National Assembly referred to a ‘rules based order in the Indo-Pacific’, reiterating India’s own concerns over troubled maritime spaces. Finding compatibility between the ‘Indo-Asia-Pacific’ and the United States of America driven ‘Indo-Pacific’ necessitates a more nuanced approach whereby regional concerns of ASEAN centrality can be assuaged while accounting for diverse approaches to maintaining regional stability. In pursuance of this, the two countries have planned a bilateral level maritime security dialogue in early 2019.

Focus on sub-regionalism
As ASEAN continues to focus on its centrality in the region, there will undoubtedly be shifts in how smaller members of ASEAN perceive the centrifugal forces of China’s rise. Vietnam has helped to mitigate these by focussing on both sub-regionalism and regionalism as the core of its priorities. India too looks at both sub-regionalism and regionalism as priority avenues to pursue its foreign policy. The India-Vietnam Joint Statement of March 2018 reiterates the focus given to sub-regionalism and the Mekong Ganga Cooperation framework. However, another area is emerging in the CLV, or Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam growth triangle sub-regional cooperation, bringing these three countries together. India and Vietnam can jointly explore the potential for enhancing capacity building and providing technical assistance and training within this sub-regional grouping.

The major takeaway from President of Republic of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind’s visit is the reference to the ‘cooperation model’ Republic of India offers, providing choices and opportunities for its allied Nations. This reference highlights Republic of India’s willingness to address issues on which increasing synergies need to evolve. One such area where convergence is likely, but has been held back due to individual preference, is the $500 million line of credit offered. Both China and Vietnam possess the capacity to find compatibility in areas promoting defence cooperation and infrastructure simultaneously. Vietnam’s role as country coordinator for China in ASEAN will come to a close in 2018. While the ties have progressed under the Look East and Act East Policies, going forward they need to factor in pragmatism, helping relations to move forward. Republic of India’s ability to look beyond the prism of optics will remain a core challenge.