India, Vietnam Set to Deepen Strategic Ties During To Lam’s First Visit

Vietnam’s evolving engagement with India is set to gain fresh momentum as President To Lam arrives on a three-day visit beginning May 5 , marking his first trip since assuming office. The visit comes at a crucial time when both nations are seeking to reinforce their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership , with a sharper focus on defence , trade , and emerging technologies amid shifting regional dynamics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold wide-ranging discussions with the Vietnamese leader, covering bilateral cooperation as well as key regional and global issues . The talks are likely to underline growing alignment between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific, where both advocate for a free, open, and rules-based order .

Defence cooperation is expected to remain a central pillar of the discussions. India has steadily expanded its role in training Vietnamese military personnel, including in submarine operations and aviation , while also extending credit lines for defence procurement. This collaboration gains significance against the backdrop of rising tensions in the South China Sea, where both countries emphasize adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

On the economic front, India and Vietnam are looking to unlock greater potential in bilateral trade, which has already crossed $14 billion . With global supply chains undergoing realignment, Vietnam’s emergence as a manufacturing hub and India’s expanding export base offer opportunities for deeper integration. Discussions are expected to focus on improving market access , boosting investments , and diversifying trade baskets, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and information technology.

Technology is poised to be another key driver of the partnership. Vietnam has shown growing interest in India’s digital public infrastructure models, while both sides are exploring collaboration in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, and space technology . Such cooperation reflects a shared ambition to build resilient and innovation-driven economies.

Energy security and sustainability are also likely to feature prominently. Indian companies have been involved in oil and gas exploration projects in Vietnamese waters, and both nations are expected to expand cooperation in renewable energy , particularly solar and wind sectors, as part of their long-term climate goals.

Beyond strategic and economic priorities, cultural ties continue to strengthen the relationship. Shared Buddhist heritage , increasing tourism flows, and expanding educational exchanges have fostered closer people-to-people connections. Enhancing direct connectivity and easing travel processes could further deepen these links.

Vietnam’s engagement with India also aligns with broader regional frameworks, including cooperation through ASEAN. Together, the two countries are positioning themselves as important partners in maintaining regional stability and balancing emerging geopolitical challenges.

As President To Lam’s visit unfolds, it is expected to not only consolidate existing cooperation but also chart new pathways in defence, trade, technology, and regional collaboration , underscoring the growing significance of India-Vietnam ties in the Indo-Pacific landscape.