Viet Nam-E.U. defense cooperation continues to expand

General Phan Van Giang meets with Kaja Kallas, E.U. High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, E.C. Vice President.

During the meeting, both sides welcomed the continued growth and expansion of Viet Nam-E.U. defense cooperation, noting that it has become increasingly substantive, effective, and practical. Cooperation has been carried out in line with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Agreement between the Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the E.U., establishing a framework for Viet Nam’s participation in E.U. crisis management operations (FPA).

To further deepen defense ties, the two sides agreed to promote exchanges of delegations, particularly at the senior level; maintain the effectiveness of the Viet Nam-E.U. Defense and Security Dialogue; strengthen training cooperation; and continue effective collaboration in peacekeeping operations. They also agreed to explore expanded cooperation in search and rescue, as well as E.U. regional projects, particularly in cyber-security and maritime security, in line with each side’s strengths and needs.

An overview of the meeting

Other potential areas for cooperation include addressing the consequences of war, multilateral affairs, defense industry, science and technology, aerospace, counterterrorism training, and search and rescue.

On this occasion, General Phan Van Giang invited Kaja Kallas and European defense industry companies and groups to attend the Viet Nam Defense Expo, scheduled to take place in Hanoi in December. The E.C. vice-president expressed her appreciation for the invitation and confirmed that numerous defense companies and groups from E.U. member states had registered to exhibit at the event. She said this demonstrated the expo’s growing appeal and international standing.

General Phan Van Giang at the meeting

Kaja Kallas speaks at the meeting.

Both sides agreed to work together to further develop defense cooperation, deepen its substance, and achieve tangible results, ensuring that it remains a key pillar of the Viet Nam-E.U. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and contributes to peace and prosperity in the region and around the world.

Translated by Tran Hoai