Minister of Foreign Affairs: President Putin's visit has generated new momentum

At the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong, President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin made an official visit to Vietnam from June 19 to June 20, 2024.

Minister, could you explain the significance of this official visit?

President Putin's visit carries a significant importance, marking a prominent highlight in Vietnam's foreign affairs in 2024, as illustrated by the following key points:

Firstly, the visit reaffirms Vietnam's consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification, and multi-lateralization of external relations, focusing on peace, friendship, cooperation, and development. It also demonstrates Vietnam's proactive and positive integration into the international community, with the goal of becoming a companion, a reliable partner, and a responsible member of the international community.

By welcoming President Putin, Vietnam reiterates its regard for Russia as one of the foremost international partners, thereby expressing a desire to strengthen the long-standing traditional friendly relationship between the two countries, and reinforce the comprehensive strategic partnership framework.

Secondly, the official visit coincides with the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on Basic Principles of Vietnam-Russia Friendly Relationship (June 16, 1994 - June 16, 2024). Additionally, both countries are preparing for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations establishment (January 30, 1950 - January 30, 2025). This event serves as an opportunity for Vietnam and Russia to review their achievements and propose directions for the comprehensive, effective, and substantive development of Vietnam-Russia cooperation and partnership in the future.

Thirdly, the official visit demonstrates the importance given to Vietnam in the implementation of Russia's Look East Policy. This is the fifth visit made by President Vladimir Putin to Vietnam within more than twenty years of presidency; and it is one of the first foreign travels following his re-election for the fifth presidential term in March 2024.

President Vladimir Putin's visits have left a significant impact and contributed to establishing crucial foundations for the development of Vietnam-Russia relations. Notably, he initiated and supported the establishment of the Vietnam-Russia Strategic Partnership in 2001, as well as its subsequent upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2012.

The two countries issued a "Joint Statement between the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Russian Federation on Strengthening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Following 30 Years of Implementing the Treaty on Basic Principles of Vietnam-Russia Friendly Relationship." This statement reflects the determination of both nations' leaders and peoples to enhance bilateral cooperation across all sectors, thereby elevating it to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Consequently, Vietnam and Russia aim to meet the needs and interests of both nations' peoples; and promote peace, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

Minister, what are the notable results following this official visit?

President Vladimir Putin's official visit has generated a new momentum for multi-faceted Vietnam-Russia cooperation. With the Joint Statement, the signing of 11 cooperation documents, and high-level meetings and exchanges, both nations have agreed on key directions to strengthen the Vietnam-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the following aspects:

Firstly, enhancing high-level dialogue and exchanges across all levels and channels; effectively implementing cooperation mechanisms to promote collaboration across all sectors; and continuing close coordination at multilateral forums, particularly the United Nations, APEC, and within the framework of the ASEAN-Russia, ASEAN-SCO, ASEAN-EAEU cooperation. Russia affirmed its support for Vietnam's hosting of APEC 2027. Furthermore, Russia is ready to cooperate with Vietnam in order to ensure the success of this important event, and support ASEAN's central role in the Asia-Pacific regional structure.

Secondly, economic cooperation remains a cornerstone and focus of the multi-faceted cooperation between Vietnam and Russia. Both parties will coordinate to address challenges and formulate solutions to enhance cooperation effectiveness; improve the efficiency of bilateral cooperation mechanisms, with a focus on the Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation; and promptly implement the Master Plan for Vietnam-Russia Cooperation Development towards 2030.

Vietnam and Russian will also coordinate to maximize the benefits of the Vietnam-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement, remove trade barriers, facilitate bilateral trade, expand market access for Vietnamese consumer goods and agricultural, aquatic products to Russia, and promote investment cooperation, particularly in infrastructure and the energy sector.

Thirdly, promoting cooperation in defense and security, with a focus on addressing non-traditional security challenges and coordinating in multilateral forums on defense and security in accordance with international law. Key forums include the ASEAN-led mechanisms, the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF); the East Asia Summit (EAS); and the ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM+). Vietnam is ready to act as a bridge between Russia and ASEAN; and contribute responsibly to ensuring peace, stability, and development in the Asia-Pacific region and the world.