Australia, Vietnam Strengthen Strategic Partnership
Australia and Vietnam agreed on Tuesday to expand cooperation in trade, defence, maritime security, technology and supply chains during Vietnamese General Secretary and State President To Lam’s meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra.
Trade And Security Ties
“Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing economies in our region. Its success creates opportunities for both of our countries, and our trade relationship is stronger than ever,” Albanese said during a press conference after their meeting.
The two governments agreed to strengthen cooperation on resilient supply chains, critical minerals, energy, defence, maritime security and the digital economy.
“At a time when the world is becoming more uncertain, resilient supply chains matter more than ever, whether it’s food, energy or critical goods, both our countries have an interest in keeping trade open and reliable,” Albanese added.
New Economic Agreements
The agreements also include renewed market access for Australian kangaroo and deer meat, a vocational education deal and approval for RMIT University to establish a new campus in Hanoi. Vietjet has announced direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Western Sydney from January 2027.
To Lam said the relationship had entered a new phase, with both sides also backing closer cooperation in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, clean energy, and critical minerals.
“We urge Australia to increase its connectivity with ASEAN, support ASEAN centrality, and support the Mekong Subregion in developing its green economy and sustainable development.”
Regional Strategic Importance
The meeting carried wider strategic weight, with Vietnam deepening ties with Australia while maintaining its long-standing policy of balancing relations with major powers rather than entering formal alliances.
For Canberra, closer cooperation with Hanoi strengthens regional security ties, helping to diversify critical mineral and supply chains in an Indo-Pacific where China remains the dominant economic and strategic power.
Australia and Vietnam elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in March 2024.
The trip was To Lam’s first official state visit to Australia, after he was elected State President for the 2026-2031 term on April 7, while continuing as Communist Party General Secretary.
Parliament of Australia, via Viory.Video
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