Strengthening Ties: Russian Prime Minister Seeks Support from Vietnam Amid Isolation
A Lasting Alliance
As Russia’s isolation over the war in Ukraine continues to grow, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has arrived in Hanoi, seeking to bolster support from its long-standing ally, Vietnam. This two-day visit comes six months after President Vladimir Putin’s trip to the capital, where Vietnam’s top leadership expressed a desire to boost defence cooperation with Moscow, its main arms supplier for decades.
A History of Cooperation
The two nations have been close allies since the days of the Cold War, with Russia being Vietnam’s primary arms supplier for over two decades. Between 1995 and 2023, Russia accounted for more than 80% of Vietnam’s arms imports. However, in recent years, orders have decreased due to international sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict.
New Agreements and Cooperation
During his visit, Mishustin met with all of Vietnam’s senior leaders, including President Luong Cuong, General Secretary To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman. The two nations signed seven deals, covering areas such as nuclear energy, digital technology, and electronics. The joint statement published on Wednesday highlighted Russia’s readiness to participate in building a national nuclear power industry in Vietnam and its commitment to implementing joint oil and gas projects.
Vietnam’s Nuclear Ambitions
Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced the country’s plans to build a nuclear power plant within the next five years. This ambitious project is a significant step forward for Vietnam, which aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and meet growing energy demands.
Defense Cooperation
While no defense deals were announced during Putin’s visit in June, the two sides emphasized their cooperation was "not directed against any third country" and contributed to "peace, stability, and sustainable development" in the region. Putin’s statement during the visit highlighted the identical or very close positions of both nations on key international issues.
Conclusion
Russia’s efforts to strengthen its ties with Vietnam are a clear indication of its desire to maintain its influence in the region and diversify its international relationships. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of global politics, the strategic partnership between Russia and Vietnam is likely to remain a key aspect of the region’s diplomatic landscape.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s visit to Vietnam?
Mishustin’s visit aims to bolster support from Vietnam, a long-standing ally, as Russia faces increasing isolation over the war in Ukraine. - What is the significance of Russia’s arms supply to Vietnam?
Russia has been Vietnam’s primary arms supplier for over two decades, accounting for more than 80% of its arms imports between 1995 and 2023. - What are the key areas of cooperation between Russia and Vietnam?
The two nations have signed deals in areas such as nuclear energy, digital technology, and electronics, with plans to build a nuclear power plant within the next five years.