New Delhi: India and Vietnam moved to deepen their strategic engagement as Narendra Modi held high-level bilateral talks with Vietnamese President Tô Lâm at Hyderabad House on Wednesday, marking a key diplomatic milestone in the region.
The meeting came shortly after President To Lam was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, formally beginning his first State Visit to India. He was received by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, underscoring what officials described as the “growing strategic partnership” between the two countries.
The ceremonial reception featured a vibrant cultural display by children in traditional attire, setting a warm tone for the “wide-ranging discussions” between the two leaders. The talks are expected to cover bilateral cooperation as well as key regional and global issues of mutual interest.
President To Lam’s visit began on Tuesday in Bodh Gaya, where he offered prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple, highlighting the civilisational and cultural linkages between the two nations.
He was welcomed in Bihar by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary before departing for Delhi, where he was received by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai. Tô Lâm also serves as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
Ahead of the main summit, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met the visiting President, further building diplomatic momentum.
According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, both sides exchanged views on strengthening the “multifaceted, comprehensive strategic partnership,” with President Tô Lâm expressing keen interest in advancing the dialogue with the Prime Minister.
The MEA noted that the visit marks a “significant juncture” as India and Vietnam celebrate a decade of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Officials said the engagement reflects the expanding scope of cooperation across defence, trade, and regional security frameworks.
Beyond Delhi, the Vietnamese President is scheduled to visit Mumbai until May 7, where he will attend a business forum at the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and interact with state leadership to promote economic collaboration.
The visit, officials said, highlights how “longstanding historical and civilisational ties” between India and Vietnam are evolving into a strong modern strategic partnership with growing global relevance.
