Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute to Ho Chi Minh During Vietnam Visit, Stresses Strong India-Vietnam Ties

Hanoi, May 2026 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday paid floral tributes to Vietnam’s founding father Ho Chi Minh at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi on the occasion of his 136th birth anniversary, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship and shared values between India and Vietnam.

Singh, who arrived in the Vietnamese capital on Monday for a two-day official visit, described Ho Chi Minh as a visionary leader whose ideals continue to inspire generations across the world. The visit marks a significant milestone as India and Vietnam celebrate 10 years of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, recently elevated to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Vietnamese President To Lam’s state visit to India earlier this month.

Taking to X, Singh wrote that he had paid homage to President Ho Chi Minh and praised his enduring commitment to national liberation and global solidarity. He stated that the India-Vietnam relationship continues to be built on mutual respect, cooperation, and common aspirations for peace and development.

During his stay in Hanoi, the Defence Minister also interacted with members of the Indian community and highlighted India’s growing global stature and strategic confidence. Referring to Operation Sindoor, Singh said the operation reflected the emergence of a strong, self-reliant, and capable India that is fully prepared to safeguard its national interests.

He reiterated India’s commitment to the “No First Use” nuclear policy but asserted that the country would not bow to nuclear threats or coercion. According to Singh, India remains fully prepared to respond firmly to any hostile action against its sovereignty and security.

The Defence Minister also spoke about India’s rapid advancements in the semiconductor sector, describing it as not merely a technological achievement but a symbol of the country’s transformation into a modern and innovation-driven economy. He invited global investors and strategic partners to participate in India’s development journey, stressing that the confidence of Indian citizens has grown alongside the country’s rising prestige on the world stage.

Ahead of his visit, Singh had stated that his discussions in Vietnam would focus on enhancing strategic military cooperation, strengthening defence industrial partnerships, and expanding maritime collaboration between the two nations. He emphasised that closer defence ties between India and Vietnam would contribute to peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Following the conclusion of his Vietnam visit, Singh is scheduled to travel to South Korea from May 19 to 21. During the visit, he will hold bilateral talks with South Korean Minister of National Defence Ahn Gyu-back and review defence cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides are expected to discuss new initiatives aimed at deepening bilateral defence engagements and exchange views on important regional and global developments. Singh will also meet Defence Acquisition Program Administration Minister Lee Yong-cheol and chair the India-Korea business roundtable aimed at boosting strategic and industrial collaboration.

Team Maverick.