Doval meets Vietnamese defense minister, agrees to deepen bilateral defense cooperation

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense General Phan Van Giang to review the ongoing bilateral defense cooperation in Vietnam. | Photo credit: PTI

National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval held talks with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Phan Van Giang in Hanoi on Monday (November 2, 2026), reviewed progress in bilateral defense cooperation and agreed to further deepen engagement in the sector.

The meeting was part of Mr. Doval’s two-day official visit to Vietnam aimed at strengthening the India-Vietnam Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

In a post on X, the Embassy of India in Vietnam said the two leaders reviewed ongoing defense cooperation and explored ways to expand engagement.

Mr Doval arrived in Hanoi on Sunday and is scheduled to hold talks with senior Vietnamese leadership to discuss cooperation in security, defense and strategic matters.

The visit follows the fourth India-Vietnam Security Dialogue held in Delhi in October 2026, during which the two sides reviewed cooperation in counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, economic security and emerging technologies.

Mr. Doval’s visit is expected to provide high-level political leadership to implement the outcomes of the dialogue.

Vietnam remains an important strategic partner for India under its Act East Policy and broader Indo-Pacific vision. Both countries also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stability and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Published – 02 Nov 2026 22:36 IST