Vietnam Treasures Traditional Friendship, Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Russia

Vietnam's top leader To Lam has emphasized the nation's high regard for its traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, considering it a top priority in implementing its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation, and diversification. The two countries are actively promoting cooperation in the defense sector. Maritime cooperation is also seen as promising, with expectations for deeper collaboration in high-tech agriculture. These joint efforts are expected to contribute to the further strengthening of bilateral ties. Under its one-party system, Vietnam's foreign policy typically prioritizes national independence and security. The relationship with Russia is viewed within this context. Amidst a complex international landscape, Vietnam aims for diverse diplomatic engagements while maintaining historical ties with Russia as a significant pillar. For Vietnam, a rapidly growing economy, economic ties with Russia remain important, particularly in areas such as energy resources and certain military technologies. Furthermore, maintaining good relations with Russia may offer geopolitical balance for Vietnam, especially given its complex relationship with China.