Post by : Shakul
Vietnam and South Korea have reiterated their dedication to fortifying bilateral defence collaboration and broadening cooperation in various sectors during a significant meeting held in Hanoi. This dialogue underscored the increasing relevance of the comprehensive strategic partnership established between the two countries and celebrated the advances made in recent years.
On June 2, 2026, General Phan Van Giang, Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, welcomed South Korean Ambassador Choi Young Sam at the Ministry of National Defense in Hanoi. This meeting served as a farewell visit in recognition of Ambassador Choi’s completion of his diplomatic tenure in Vietnam.
General Phan Van Giang commended Ambassador Choi for successfully fulfilling his role and thanked him for his efforts in strengthening Vietnam–South Korea ties. He acknowledged the ambassador's pivotal role in enhancing cooperation across various domains, such as defence, trade, cultural interactions, and connections between citizens.
The Minister reaffirmed Vietnam's unwavering commitment to the comprehensive strategic partnership that exists between the two nations. He pointed out the importance of recent high-level visits, like the state visit by Vietnamese leader To Lam to South Korea in August 2025 and the visit by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to Vietnam in April 2026. These trips yielded substantial results that continue to foster bilateral relations towards a shared and prosperous future.
Regarding defence cooperation, General Phan Van Giang noted the steady expansion of joint ventures in recent years. Key areas include military education and training, naval exchanges, defence industry enhancement, and efforts in post-war recovery. He expressed gratitude for South Korea's ongoing support in addressing the repercussions of war in Vietnam through humanitarian initiatives and development projects.
Significant focus was placed on mine-action efforts in collaboration with South Korea, highlighting projects in the provinces of Binh Dinh and Quang Binh. General Phan Van Giang thanked the South Korean government for its support and expressed optimism about the continuation of cooperation in post-war recovery in the future. He also invited South Korean defence firms to join the Third Vietnam International Defense Exhibition, which is set for December 2026.
Ambassador Choi Young Sam expressed his gratitude to the Vietnamese leadership for their support during his time in office and shared his contentment with the progress in bilateral relations. He mentioned that both nations have bolstered their cooperation through defence policy dialogues, officer exchanges, naval visits, economic collaborations, and cultural initiatives. The ambassador committed himself to furthering efforts aimed at deepening cooperation between Vietnam and South Korea in his future roles, aspiring to elevate the partnership to new heights.
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