India strengthens diplomatic ties with Vietnam and Laos

Indian Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita is conducting a diplomatic tour of Southeast Asia to strengthen bilateral ties with Vietnam and Laos.

In Vietnam, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and Minister Margherita met to mark the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Discussions focused on achieving a US$25 billion two-way trade target and doubling bilateral investment. The Prime Minister urged the exploration of a bilateral free trade agreement and increased cooperation in science, technology, infrastructure, and energy. Margherita identified Vietnam as a top partner under India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

In Laos, Margherita participated in a seminar marking 70 years of diplomatic relations. The discussions emphasized the transition from a development partnership to a comprehensive partnership and highlighted the shared role of both nations as partners in the Global South. The visit aims to deepen historical ties and mutual trust through high-level bilateral engagements.