On the afternoon of 15/9 in Hanoi, Minister of National Defense Phan Van Giang held talks with the Assistant to the President, Chairman of the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation, Nicolai Patrushev.

General Giang praised Russia's position as a maritime power with a strong navy, a widespread system of strategic ports, advanced shipbuilding technology, and a modern maritime management model. He expressed confidence that Russia would continue to make positive contributions to peace, stability, and development in the region and the world.

Vietnam-Russia defense cooperation has been effectively implemented recently, particularly in the naval field, training, marine scientific research, as well as exchanging experiences in national border management and protection. Minister Giang affirmed Vietnam's policy of becoming a strong maritime nation, developing a sustainable maritime economy linked to national defense and security, and maintaining independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Mr. Patrushev expressed his gratitude for the reception by the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defense and stated that maritime cooperation contributes to deepening bilateral defense relations, consistent with the direction of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. He affirmed that naval cooperation, education, training, and marine scientific research still have much potential that needs to be further promoted.

The two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding on consultations in the maritime field between the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam and the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation. Photo: Giang Huy

The two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding on consultations in the maritime field between the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam and the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation. Photo: Giang Huy

On this occasion, General Phan Van Giang thanked Russia for sending a high-ranking delegation led by Deputy Minister of National Defense Alexander Vasilyevich Fomin to attend the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's National Day celebrations, as well as sending a contingent of soldiers to participate in the parade. He also mentioned the completion of the Vietnam-Soviet Union solidarity and friendship statue at the Military History Museum, honoring Soviet experts who assisted Vietnam during the war.

At the conclusion of the talks, the two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding on consultations in the maritime field between the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam and the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation.

Son Ha