Putin: Vietnam Always a Reliable Partner, a Priority in Russia's Asia-Pacific Policy

Russian leader hails "special relations" as he hosts Vietnamese President To Lam at the Kremlin

By [Staff Writer] | September 10, 2026

MOSCOW — President Vladimir Putin said Vietnam "has always been a reliable partner and a priority in Russia's policy in the Asia-Pacific region," as he hosted Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam at the Kremlin on Wednesday during the first state visit by Vietnam's top leader to Russia since 1991.

The Russian leader's remarks came during a wide-ranging meeting in which the two sides signed a sweeping joint statement vowing to deepen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with cooperation in defense and security as a strategic pillar, energy and oil as a strategic breakthrough, and science, technology, and human resources as key drivers.

Historical Friendship Invoked

Speaking to reporters after the talks, Putin stressed the deep historical roots of the relationship, noting that the Soviet Union had provided "immense support and sincere, selfless assistance" to Vietnam during its struggle for national independence and reunification.

He noted that bilateral trade grew nearly 6 percent last year, with the pace of growth nearly doubling in the first half of this year. He highlighted cooperation in oil and gas exploration, hydropower, nuclear power, shipbuilding, and tourism as areas with further potential.

Putin also welcomed Vietnam's decision to award him the Lev Tolstoy International Peace Prize 2026, calling it a recognition of the contributions to strengthening friendship between the two nations.

Vietnamese Leader Calls Russia a 'Top Priority'

In his remarks, To Lam said Vietnam regards Russia as a "priority" and a "strategic choice of enduring significance," adding that the Vietnamese people have "always had a special place in our hearts" for Russia.

Addressing concerns about Vietnam's ties with Russia, To Lam said Vietnam "has neither wavered nor shifted its stance" despite views expressed by some countries. He emphasized that Russia's role in shaping a "new multipolar world order" and safeguarding global energy and food security was highly valued.

New Landmark for Ties

The visit resulted in a joint statement outlining the foundations and principles for developing relations in the new era, including commitments to regular high-level exchanges, party and parliamentary cooperation, and coordination at international forums.

Key cooperation areas include:

• Nuclear energy: A 2026 agreement on building a nuclear power plant in Vietnam and a nuclear science and technology research center

To Lam extended an invitation for Putin to visit Vietnam in the near future and to attend the APEC 2027 Summit, to be held on Phu Quoc Island in November 2027.

At the conclusion of the visit, the two leaders witnessed the signing ceremony of several cooperation documents between Vietnam and the Russian Federation.