Russian President Vladimir Putin and Vietnamese counterpart To Lam finalized a series of agreements on Thursday aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, as Russia seeks to bolster ties in Asia amidst international isolation over its actions in Ukraine.
The agreements signed cover various sectors including education, science and technology, oil and gas exploration, and health. Additionally, both nations agreed to collaborate on developing a roadmap for a nuclear science and technology center in Vietnam.
Following the discussions, Putin emphasized mutual interests in establishing a stable security framework in the Asia-Pacific Region, emphasizing non-aggression and peaceful dispute resolution without military blocs.
Vietnam’s President To Lam echoed these sentiments, highlighting plans for enhanced defense and security cooperation to tackle non-traditional security challenges, alongside energy projects and expanded investments. He also congratulated Putin on his recent re-election and praised Russia’s internal political stability.
However, these agreements were overshadowed by a recent pact Putin signed with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, promising mutual assistance in case of aggression. This alliance, seen as a strategic move amidst escalating tensions with the West, marks a significant development in Moscow’s relations with Pyongyang since the Cold War era.
During his visit, Putin met with Vietnam’s Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, along with other high-ranking officials. The Russian leader received a warm welcome at Vietnam’s Presidential Palace, where he engaged in bilateral discussions and addressed the media alongside President To Lam.
Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Gennady S. Bezdetko emphasized Russia’s commitment to maintaining robust cooperation across energy, industry, technology, education, security, and trade sectors during Putin’s visit.
The visit has drawn criticism from the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam, reflecting ongoing tensions between Washington and Moscow amid broader geopolitical shifts.
Putin’s diplomatic engagements in China, North Korea, and Vietnam are viewed as efforts to counter international isolation prompted by Western sanctions over Ukraine. Analysts suggest these visits are strategic moves to bolster alliances and diversify diplomatic relations amidst global pressures.
Both Russia and Vietnam deny allegations of illicit arms trade, which could potentially violate U.N. Security Council sanctions. Vietnam values Russian military support and technology for oil exploration, crucial for asserting sovereignty in the disputed South China Sea.
The geopolitical maneuvers between Moscow and Hanoi underscore their shared interests in enhancing regional stability while navigating complex global dynamics.
