In a significant step towards bolstering regional security and political cooperation, General Phan Văn Giang, Minister of National Defence of Việt Nam, has hailed the elevation of Việt Nam–Indonesia relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as a historic milestone. This advancement, formalised in March 2025 during the State visit to Indonesia by Party General Secretary Tô Lâm, signifies a new chapter in bilateral ties, underpinned by enhanced political, defence, and security collaboration.
The remarks came as General Giang, also a Politburo member and Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Commission, hosted a formal welcome ceremony in Hà Nội for his Indonesian counterpart, Minister of Defence Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, on Wednesday. The occasion marked a reaffirmation of the long-standing ties between the two neighbouring nations, who share not only a maritime border but also a deep commitment to regional stability through the ASEAN framework. During their discussions, General Giang highlighted the steady progress of bilateral defence cooperation in recent years. He noted that the growing collaboration has significantly contributed to building political trust between the two sides. Among the notable areas of success are the frequent exchanges of delegations and high-level engagements, enhanced coordination between respective military services and maritime law enforcement agencies, as well as joint efforts in United Nations peacekeeping missions and cooperation among strategic research institutions.
General Giang also praised the constructive role both countries play within multilateral platforms, especially ASEAN-led mechanisms, where they have continued to consult closely and support each other’s initiatives. This spirit of solidarity was evident in Indonesia’s active participation in the Việt Nam International Defence Expo 2024, for which he expressed appreciation, while also congratulating Indonesia on the successful hosting of the 10th Indonesia International Defence Expo in June 2025. Looking ahead, General Giang proposed a deepening of defence cooperation through more substantive and trusted mechanisms, including increased exchanges of delegations, high-level dialogues, and the effective use of existing cooperative frameworks. He emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum in strategic and operational coordination.
In response, Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin echoed the significance of this latest chapter in bilateral relations. He affirmed that his visit marks an important milestone in the evolving partnership and proposed that both ministries continue expanding their collaboration in line with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He underscored the trusted nature of Việt Nam–Indonesia defence ties and expressed confidence in further strengthening them in the years to come. The two ministers also took the opportunity to exchange views on a range of global and regional issues of shared interest, reinforcing their mutual commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation in Southeast Asia. The meeting in Hà Nội signals a clear intent by both countries to play proactive roles in regional defence diplomacy, reinforcing the foundation for an enduring and strategic bilateral relationship.
