Vietnam, Russia to elevate bilateral ties to new heights: Party Chief

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam and Russia should accelerate the implementation of high-level agreements, unlock shared potential and elevate their partnership to better serve national development and contribute to regional and global stability.

General Secretary To Lam shared the view during a meeting on December 9 with Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu, who is visiting Vietnam.

At the meeting, the Vietnamese Party Chief said the visit holds an important significance because it strengthens cooperation between the two countries’ specialized agencies in security, national defense and other strategic areas.

He stressed that Vietnam values its traditional and close friendship with Russia, which has been built by generations of leaders and citizens of both countries.

He expressed appreciation for the support the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation have given Vietnam during its struggle for national liberation and in today’s work to build and protect the country.

He affirmed that the Party and State of Vietnam consistently pursue an independent and self-reliant foreign policy that promotes diversified and multilateral ties.

“Strengthening trust and the comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia remains one of Vietnam’s key priorities,” said Lam.

He welcomed the outcomes of the working sessions between the Russian Security Council delegation and Vietnamese agencies.

He also noted the practical areas of cooperation both sides agreed on, especially in combating transnational crime, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, non-traditional security, strategic information exchange and capacity building.

Lam said that in a fast-changing and complex global environment, Vietnam and Russia need to enhance coordination, consultation and experience sharing to support one another’s security and prosperity.

Vietnam is ready to help Russia expand its cooperation with ASEAN and its member states, he added.

For his part, Shoigu thanked the General Secretary for the meeting and said he was pleased to return to Vietnam, a country for which he has deep affection.

He conveyed the best wishes of Russia’s senior leaders to the General Secretary. He said Russia views Vietnam as a trusted and important partner in the Asia-Pacific. He also recognized Vietnam’s growing role and its peaceful and independent foreign policy.

Shoigu said cooperation between the two countries is built on trust, mutual respect and alignment with international law and shared interests.

He noted progress in security and defense cooperation, personnel training and joint efforts to address non-traditional security challenges and crime.

He expressed his desire to expand cooperation between the Russian Security Council and Vietnamese agencies, deepen strategic dialogue between specialized bodies and broaden programs, mechanisms and new initiatives that match each side’s needs and conditions.

In an open and constructive atmosphere, the two sides discussed other areas of cooperation and agreed on the need to strengthen economic and trade mechanisms, broaden cooperation in energy, oil and gas, agriculture, machinery manufacturing and high technology.

They also encouraged stronger connections between localities, businesses and economic associations in both countries to create new drivers for bilateral ties.

Both highlighted the importance of scientific cooperation, technology transfer and joint research, and emphasized education and high-quality workforce training as long-term foundations for the Vietnam-Russia relationship.

They also underscored the value of cultural and people-to-people connections in strengthening traditional friendship, and agreed to continue promoting cultural, artistic, tourism and academic exchange programs.