Vietnam, Russia seek to deepen maritime, defense cooperation

Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Gennady S. Bezdetko also attended the meeting, which took place in Hanoi during Patrushev’s working visit to Vietnam.

Minister Giang highlighted the strategic importance of Patrushev’s visit in advancing the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Russia, as agreed on by Party General Secretary To Lam and Russian President Vladimir Putin in May 2025.

He expressed deep gratitude for Russia’s historical support during Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification, as well as its continued engagement in major national events, including the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's August Revolution and National Day celebrations on September 2.

Praising Russia’s maritime capabilities, General Giang underscored its extensive network of strategic ports, advanced shipbuilding technologies, and modern maritime management, while reaffirming Vietnam’s aspiration to become a strong and prosperous maritime nation.

He emphasized the country’s goal of developing a sustainable marine economy, safeguarding national defense, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and enhancing international maritime cooperation.

Giang noted that senior leaders from both countries have consistently prioritized consolidating their traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership, with defense cooperation serving as a key pillar.

He expressed hope that collaboration between Vietnam’s defense ministry and the Russian Maritime Board would proceed on a mutually beneficial basis, in line with international law and domestic regulations, contributing to peace, stability, development, and shared prosperity regionally and globally.

On the East Vietnam Sea issue, Giang reiterated Vietnam’s stance that all parties must comply with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, adhere to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Vietnam Sea, and work toward a practical and effective Code of Conduct.

In response, Patrushev affirmed that enhancing maritime cooperation will help further strengthen the defense partnership between the two countries and aligns with the strategic directions of the Vietnam–Russia comprehensive strategic partnership established by senior leaders.

He noted the significant potential for further collaboration, expressing hope for continued exchanges in areas such as naval operations, education and training, and marine scientific research, while also exploring other maritime sectors of mutual interest.

The talks concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding on maritime consultations between Vietnam’s defense ministry and the Russian Maritime Board.