India and Vietnam to Mark 2027 as Friendship Year After 19th Joint Commission Meeting in New Delhi

Key facts

• India and Vietnam agreed to observe 2027 as the 'Year of India-Vietnam Friendship' to mark the 55th anniversary of their bilateral diplomatic relations, at the 19th India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Vietnam's Foreign Affairs Minister Le Hoai Trung in New Delhi.
• The ministers reviewed the full spectrum of the India-Vietnam Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and identified pathways to deepen defence collaboration, including co-production of Indian defence equipment.
• Vietnam agreed to address market access for Indian pharmaceuticals, marine products, and agricultural goods, with both sides agreeing to bolster financial, port, and air connectivity and explore cooperation in space exploration and nuclear energy.
• Vietnam's Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung arrived in New Delhi on Saturday during the 18th BRICS Summit hosted under India's chairship, where Vietnam participated as a 'Partner Country'.
• Vietnam is a key pillar of India's Act East Policy and an important partner in India's engagement with ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific.
• India-Vietnam ties were elevated to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Vietnamese President To Lam's state visit to India in May 2025.
• The previous Joint Commission Meeting was held three years ago, and both sides agreed to convene the next meeting at a mutually convenient date.