Vietnam’s defense minister receives chief of Thailand’s defense forces

During the meeting, Minister Giang emphasized that the elevation of Vietnam-Thailand relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership in May this year marked a historic milestone, ushering in a new chapter in their bilateral ties.

He affirmed that Vietnam always attaches great importance to strengthening its close friendship and good cooperation with Thailand.

He also applauded the outcomes of the talks on Friday between Noonpackdee and General Nguyen Tan Cuong, chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense.

Giang acknowledged the positive results of the bilateral defense cooperation between the two countries, as well as the proactive role of Thailand, specifically its Ministry of Defense and Royal Thai Army, in promoting multilateral cooperation, especially within ASEAN.

He suggested that the two militaries step up efforts to foster mutual understanding and trust, with a focus on strategic consultations and exchanges and mutual visits at all levels.

He also underlined the need to boost fruitful cooperation between their military arms and services while expanding ties in potential areas aligned with each side’s demand and strengths.

The Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense supports deeper cooperation between the two militaries, the Vietnamese minister said, expressing his hope that the two sides would further strengthen effective collaboration, contributing to each country's national defense and their comprehensive strategic partnership.

At the meeting, General Noonpackdee highly valued the sound defense ties between the two countries, affirming that defense cooperation is a key pillar of the comprehensive strategic partnership.

He voiced his belief that Vietnam’s ongoing historic reform for building the two-tiered local administration model will pave the way for even greater accomplishments in the coming time.

On Friday afternoon, General Nguyen Tan Cuong, chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense, hosted a welcome ceremony for and held talks with General Songwit Noonpackdee.

During the talks, both sides affirmed that defense cooperation is one of the key pillars in the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Thailand.

They also emphasized ASEAN's important role in shaping and maintaining regional security, promoting substantive cooperation among member states as well as between ASEAN and its partners.