New Delhi, 06 May (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Wednesday that India-Vietnam relations are entering a new phase of enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both nations advancing together towards development and prosperity. He emphasized, We will walk together, rise together, and win together.

Following high-level talks on Wednesday between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam President To Lam, India and Vietnam announced the elevation of their ties to an enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both countries resolved to impart new momentum to trade, defence, connectivity, and strategic cooperation.

In a joint media briefing, Prime Minister Modi remarked that President To Lam's visit to India reflects the strengthening bonds and mutual priorities between the two nations. He noted that this partnership will now progress towards even higher goals.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that bilateral trade between India and Vietnam has doubled to $16 billion over the past decade. The two nations have now set a target to reach $25 billion by 2030. Agreements have been reached to boost exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, fisheries, and animal products. Very soon, Vietnam will savour more of India's grapes and pomegranates, while India will enjoy Vietnam's durians and pomelos.

Under financial cooperation, both sides agreed to integrate India's UPI with Vietnam's fast payment system. Air connectivity, state-to-state, and city-to-city collaborations will also be expanded.

Prime Minister Modi stated that Vietnam is a key pillar of India's Act East Policy and Vision SAGAR. Both countries emphasized strengthening defence and security cooperation to promote peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. With Vietnam's support, India will further broaden its ties with ASEAN.

Prime Minister Modi noted the deep civilizational and cultural bonds between India and Vietnam. Initiatives like the conservation of Champa civilization temples and digitization of ancient manuscripts will carry forward this heritage.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Vietnam for condemning the Pulwama terror attack and standing with India against terrorism.

Prime Minister Modi observed that amid global economic challenges, India and Vietnam are rapidly emerging economies that will support each other's growth through this new strategic partnership.

Concluding, Prime Minister Modi invoked Lord Buddha's teachings, stating that cooperating in each other's development is the path to shared progress for both nations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar