Vietnam, Russia reinforce political trust in To Lam visit

THE HANOI TIMES — The Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and the United Russia Party have affirmed to consolidate collaboration for tightened relations between the two countries.

It’s one among big issues to reinforce political trust through high-level visit exchange and the parties’ cooperation reached by the CPV’s General Secretary To Lam and the United Russia Party’s Chairman Dmitry Medvedev in Moscow on May 9.

The two leaders also agreed to strengthen cooperation among youth to continue the traditional relationship between the two parties and the people of both countries.

At the meeting, Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and Prime Minister, said that political trust is the cornerstone of Vietnam-Russia relations for decades. During their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-party relations, maintaining high-level dialogues, and expanding cooperation in various sectors, including security, defense, trade, and investment.

To Lam conveyed Vietnam’s appreciation for Russia’s consistent support and reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to fostering mutual trust and cooperation in the face of global uncertainties. Medvedev talked of Vietnam’s vital partner in Southeast Asia and expressed readiness to deepen bilateral ties across all fields.

During the visit on May 8-11, General Secretary To Lam met with senior Russian leaders, including Dmitry Medvedev, Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, and Federation Council Chairwoman Valentina Matviyenko, to promote cooperation in politics, economy, defense, culture, and people-to-people ties.

Vietnam and Russia have enjoyed a comprehensive strategic partnership that dates back to the Soviet era. Over the years, both countries have maintained close coordination in international forums, and promoted mutual interests through high-level visits and exchanges. To Lam’s visit to Moscow consolidated political ties amid evolving regional and global dynamics.

During the meeting, To Lam and Medvedev also discussed economic cooperation, particularly in energy, oil and gas, infrastructure, and digital transformation. The leaders emphasized the need to leverage their strengths to enhance trade and investment and cooperation in emerging sectors such as clean energy, advanced technology, and digitalization.

On this occasion, he also held bilateral meetings with leaders from Cuba, China, Uzbekistan, and Slovakia. The visit opened new avenues for bilateral and multilateral collaboration.

On May 9, To Lam and his spouse joined the Victory Day celebrations at Moscow’s Red Square, a significant event that commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

The grand military parade, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and other high-ranking officials, showcased Russia’s military strength and historical resilience. The high-ranking Vietnamese delegation attended the event while the Vietnam People’s Army joined the parade, demonstrating the traditional ties between the two nations.

At the invitation of the Russian Ministry of Defense, for the first time a delegation of the Vietnam People's Army participated in a military parade abroad. The contingent, comprising 86 servicemen, includes officers, cadets, and professional soldiers from the Army Officer School No. 1, along with representatives from various units and agencies. The Vietnamese delegation also took part in rehearsals and preliminary reviews on April 29 and May 3.

As Vietnam and Russia continue to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, the visit of General Secretary To Lam to Moscow signifies a renewed commitment to deepening political trust, enhancing strategic cooperation, and expanding areas of mutual interest.