On 18/11, General Phan Van Giang, Vietnam's Minister of National Defense, hosted a reception and held talks with Slovakia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak.

General Phan Van Giang emphasized the visit's special significance. He stated it creates new momentum for bilateral defense cooperation and helps implement agreed-upon defense collaborations effectively.

The Vietnamese Party, State, and Government prioritize strengthening traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Slovakia. General Giang also noted significant potential for cooperation across all sectors, including defense.

General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense, hosted a reception for Slovakia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak. *Hoang Phong*

General Phan Van Giang urged both sides to continue promoting defense cooperation. He suggested Slovakia's Ministry of Defense consider training Vietnamese military personnel in Slovak language and specialized fields where Slovakia has expertise. The General stressed the need to enhance cooperation in defense industry, cybersecurity, bomb and mine clearance, and war aftermath mitigation. He also called for mutual support within the Vietnam-European Union cooperation framework.

On this occasion, General Phan Van Giang invited Slovakia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak, as well as leaders from Slovak defense industry agencies and businesses, to the 3rd Vietnam International Defense Expo, scheduled for late 2026.

Robert Kalinak affirmed the long-standing traditional relationship between Vietnam and Slovakia. He stated the two countries stood together through years of struggle and development. Slovakia's Minister of Defense proposed enhancing cooperation in defense industry, delegation exchanges at all levels, and cybersecurity.

Son Ha