National Security Adviser: India Always Stands Side By Side With Vietnam

PM Nguyen Tan Dung on Friday asked India to support and enhance defense and military technology cooperation with Viet Nam, during his reception for India's national security adviser Ajit Kumar Doval.

PM Dung noted that Viet Nam and India enjoyed a special traditional friendship that has been built and nurtured by generations of leaders of the two countries.

He affirmed that Viet Nam always treasures the valuable assistance that Indian people offered during the past struggle for national independence and re-unification as well as the cause of national construction.

The Vietnamese Government chief expressed his hope that both countries would spare no effort to deepen the bilateral ties in a practical and effective manner for the sake of the two sides and for peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.

Viet Nam advocates India's Act East policy and its efforts to strengthen strategic partnership with ASEAN, PM Dung stated.

Mr. Doval said PM Narendra Modi urged his Cabinet ministers to review and beef up the strategic partnership with Viet Nam.

He affirmed that India is a friend who always walks side by side with Viet Nam in all circumstances.

The two countries should double efforts to expand cooperation in all fields, suggested Mr. Doval, adding that India stands ready to support and cooperate with Viet Nam in military industry and technology, and cyber security.

Regarding East Sea issue, Mr. Doval restated India's position that ensuring the freedom of navigation is of significant importance. India will not accept any unilateral actions that could change the status quo.

All divergences and disputes must be settled through peaceful measures in accordance with international law, said Mr. Doval, adding that PM Narendra Modi has repeated this stance at all international forums./.