Vietnam is at the forefront of India's engagements in Asia-Pacific regions, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Vietnam is crucial for India's engagement in the Asia-Pacific region, noting that Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung shared his confidence in the relations between the two nations.

"I am delighted to welcome Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung to India. His third visit to India is a testimony to his strong confidence and interest in the relations between our two countries. Since entering office, my government has promptly and purposefully intensified our engagement in the Asia Pacific region, which is critical to India's future. It is no surprise that Vietnam has been at the forefront of our efforts," Prime Minister Modi told the media after the signing of various agreements between the two nations.

"President Pranab Mukherjee paid a highly successful state visit to Vietnam in September, while External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj visited Vietnam in August," the Prime Minister added.

Prime Minister Modi further said that India and Vietnam share spiritual and cultural links, adding that these associations have moulded the close ties that the two nations share.

"India and Vietnam share ancient spiritual and cultural links, which is reflected in Prime Minister Dung's visit to Bodh Gaya before coming to Delhi. We are two developing nations. We have been steadfast in our support for each other and we have stood with each other in difficult moments. We in India admire the people of Vietnam for the courage and resolve with which they have overcome many formidable challenges to their nation," said Prime Minister Modi.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Dung is on a two-day state visit to India. During his visit, the leader witnessed the signing of seven agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two nations.

On Tuesday evening, he will attend a banquet hosted by Prime Minister Modi before departing.