Hanoi [Vietnam], May 18 (ANI): Indian Ambassador Tshering Wangchuk Sherpa on Monday highlighted the significance of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Vietnam, stating that it will be focused on strengthening the already robust, mutually trusted defence partnership.

Speaking with ANI, Tshering Wangchuk Sherpa reflected on the friendly defence relations between the two countries, acknowledging the completion of 10 years of a comprehensive strategic partnership.

'Defence is a very important pillar of our comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam. Rajnath Singh ji was also here in 2022. We have a very broad-based defence partnership with Vietnam, cutting across sectors, whether it's capacity building, joint co-production, exercises, or discussions at all levels. And. I think this visit will further strengthen the already robust, mutually trusted defence partnership,' he told ANI.

'India and Vietnam established diplomatic ties in 1972. However, our friendship is rooted in civilization linkages of shared Buddhism and heritage. Our partnership is based on mutual trust, shared values, mutual respect, and solidarity. This year, 2026, is special as we commemorate 10 years of our comprehensive strategic partnership, which was established during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Vietnam in 2016. In the recent visit of President To Lam to India, our partnership was elevated to an enhanced comprehensive partnership,' he added.

The Defence Minister will reach Hanoi, Vietnam, today, where he will hold bilateral talks with the Minister of National Defence of Vietnam, General Phan Van Giang, during the visit.

Rajnath Singh's visit to Vietnam marks 10 years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, which was upgraded to the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the state visit of the President of Vietnam to India from May 05 to 07, 2026, according to a release from the Ministry of Defence.

A Joint Vision Statement of India-Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030 was signed as part of Rajnath Singh's last visit from June 08 to 10, 2022. The vision statement clearly enunciates a defined way ahead for bilateral defence cooperation. The two democracies have a common interest in the peace and prosperity of the region.

Rajnath Singh's visit also coincides with the 136th birth anniversary of former President of Vietnam Ho Chi Minh on May 19, 2026. Raksha Mantri will lay a wreath at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and pay tribute as a mark of respect.

After Vietnam, the Defence Minister will head to South Korea and hold bilateral talks with the Minister of National Defence Ahn Gyu-back. The Ministers will review defence cooperation between the two countries and explore new initiatives to further strengthen bilateral engagements. They will also exchange views on regional and global issues of shared interest.

He will also meet Minister of Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Lee, Yong-cheol and chair the India-Korea business roundtable, according to the release.

A joint inauguration of the Indian War Memorial with Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Oh-eul has been planned on May 21. (ANI)