Vietnam's Top Leader Begins State Visit to Russia and France
Vietnam's General Secretary and President To Lam has embarked on a state visit to Russia and France from

During a state visit to Russia from September 7-9, General Secretary and President To Lam emphasized the importance of developing Vietnam-Russia relations as a long-term strategic choice. Both nations issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to further strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership in a new phase.
The two countries agreed to enhance their relationship based on high political and strategic trust, with a balanced and sustainable economic, trade, and investment foundation. They identified defense and security cooperation as a strategic pillar, with energy and oil as breakthrough areas, and highlighted science, technology, innovation, and human resources as key drivers for cooperation.
In the political and diplomatic realm, both sides stressed the importance of maintaining high political trust as a core foundation for comprehensive cooperation across various fields. They committed to regular and substantive political dialogues.
In terms of defense and security, the partnership aims to enhance military cooperation, humanitarian bomb disposal, maritime security, and the training of high-quality personnel. Both nations agreed to strengthen collaboration against extremism, particularly among the youth.
Economically, Vietnam and Russia plan to increase bilateral trade turnover and promote collaboration in areas such as science and technology, including artificial intelligence, green energy, and climate change response. They aim to remove trade barriers and support exporters and investors from both countries.
In the energy sector, the cooperation is seen as a strategic breakthrough, contributing to energy security for both nations. They will expedite cooperation on oil and liquefied natural gas supplies from Russia and develop necessary infrastructure in Vietnam for hydrocarbon processing and storage.
Transportation cooperation is also a priority, with plans to develop a metro system in Vietnam, modernize railways, and enhance multimodal transport between Vietnam, China, and Russia.
In agriculture, both countries emphasized the need for increased supply of high-quality agricultural products and encouraged joint ventures in specialized industries.
On science, technology, and education, they agreed to promote joint research, particularly in peaceful nuclear energy, digital technology, and AI, while facilitating exchanges between universities and research institutes.
In cultural cooperation, both sides will implement a Cultural Cooperation Program for 2025-2027, conduct regular cultural events, and work towards establishing a Vietnamese cultural center in Russia.
Vietnam and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a balanced and objective stance on international issues, particularly regarding the Ukraine crisis, and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to conflicts.
The joint statement reflects a mutual desire to enhance cooperation in various fields, ensuring benefits for both nations and their peoples.