PM Modi described General Lich’s visit as a positive contribution to strengthening India-Vietnam ties as well as bilateral defence affiliation.

He said that India is a close friend of Vietnam, adding that the country considers Vietnam as a top priority in its “Act East” policy.

India will continue forging closer ties with Vietnam in five major areas, including defence, thus tapping cooperation potential between the two countries and deepening the Vietnam-India comprehensive partnership, said the PM.

General Lich expressed delight at India’s strong growth, which has helped the country rise as a world power.

He thanked the Government and people of India for their support to Vietnam during the struggle for independence and for the cause of national defence and construction.

He briefed his host on the outcomes of defence cooperation between the two countries, lauding the support of the Indian Government and PM Modi for the two Defence Ministries to foster their affiliation.

The people and army of Vietnam will exert efforts to maintain and reinforce the sound traditional friendship between the two countries, which was founded by late Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and President Ho Chi Minh.

During his stay, General Lich met with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Kumar Doval. He also visited the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) of India, and the Indian Air Force High Command.

On December 6, a number of bilateral meetings were held between defence officials of Vietnam and India.-VNA