His remarks come on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam–India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2016–2026), and ahead of the State visit by General Secretary and President To Lam to India from May 5 to 7 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Reviewing a decade of bilateral relations, Professor Pant noted that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has seen robust growth, becoming more substantive and wide-ranging in line with its designation. What began as a bilateral framework between two Asian nations has evolved into a broader alignment grounded in a shared vision for the regional order, particularly within the framework of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
He emphasized that growing alignment is evident in the increasing frequency of high-level engagements and expanding people-to-people exchanges. In the context of a rapidly changing Indo-Pacific landscape, he stressed that Vietnam–India ties play a crucial role in maintaining regional stability and balance. As major power competition intensifies and the global order undergoes transformation, partnerships between like-minded countries such as Vietnam and India are essential to ensuring an open, free, and inclusive region, free from hegemonic dominance.
Regarding the upcoming State visit by General Secretary and President To Lam, Professor Pant described it as a significant event that will reaffirm both countries’ commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing their ability to address future challenges while seizing new opportunities arising from global shifts.
