ASEAN, India reaffirm relations orientations in 21st century (Photo: baochinhphu.vn)

Based on common values and long-standing ties, both sides highlighted the importance of the ASEAN-India strategic partnership to peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

Prime Minister Phuc praised India’s role in promoting regional cooperation, saying he hopes India will engage more deeply in cooperation with ASEAN to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. He hailed India for boosting Mekong–Ganga cooperation and said he hopes projects within its framework will help narrow the regional development gap.

Mr. Phuc said that Vietnam’s stance on the East Sea matches ASEAN’s stance affirmed at the 36th ASEAN Summit in June, the 53rd ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in September, and the 37th ASEAN Summit, towards building peace, stability, and cooperation in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea).