- India and Vietnam have taken another major step in strengthening their strategic and defence partnership by signing new agreements during the 15th India–Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue (DPD) held in Hanoi . The meeting, co-chaired by India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of National Defence Senior Lt Gen Hoang Xuan Chien , focused on expanding cooperation in maritime security, defence industry collaboration, and emerging technologies .
Submarine Search and Rescue Agreement
- A key highlight of the dialogue was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on mutual submarine search and rescue support . The pact establishes a framework for coordinated assistance during submarine emergencies, strengthening naval interoperability and maritime safety between the Indian Navy and the Vietnam People’s Navy. This marks a significant move toward bolstering operational coordination in the Indo-Pacific , an area of shared strategic concern.
Boost to Defence Industry and Technology Cooperation
- Both sides also signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to enhance defence industry collaboration . The LoI emphasises joint research, technology transfer, and co-development of defence platforms , including shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing . The agreement aims to promote self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in defence production, facilitate exchange of technical expertise , and encourage joint ventures between Indian and Vietnamese companies.
Expanding to New Security Domains
- The dialogue also reviewed cooperation in hydrography, AI applications, cyber security, and shipyard modernisation . Both nations agreed to deepen information sharing for maritime domain awareness and regional stability in the South China Sea .
Exam Pointers
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Event: 15th India–Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue (Nov 2025)
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Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
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Key Agreements:
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Focus Areas: AI, cyber security, shipbuilding, hydrography
Month: Current Affairs - November 11, 2025
Category: International Relations