India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, commenced a crucial four-day visit to Vietnam on Sunday, with the aim of strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations. The visit includes a series of high-profile engagements and meetings with Vietnamese officials and the Indian diaspora.
A Warm Welcome at Tran Quoc Pagoda
Jaishankar’s visit began with a warm welcome from Vietnam’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bui Thanh Son, at the Tran Quoc Pagoda, an iconic historical site in Hanoi. Expressing his gratitude, Jaishankar shared his excitement about the visit on social media, saying, “Arrived in Vietnam today. Thank you @FMBuiThanhSon for the warm personal welcome at the renowned Tran Quoc pagoda. Looking forward to co-chairing the 18th Joint Commission Meeting tomorrow.”
Cultural and Literary Ties Symbolized
The historical significance of the Tran Quoc Pagoda as a symbol of the age-old ties between India and Vietnam was not lost on Jaishankar. He highlighted the Bodhi tree at the pagoda, a gift from India’s President Rajendra Prasad to President Ho Chi Minh in 1959.
Rabindranath Tagore’s Bust and Quan Ho Art Theater Performance
During his visit, Jaishankar also unveiled the bust of the iconic Indian poet and Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, at the Bac Ninh province of Vietnam. This gesture serves as a symbol of cultural and literary connections between the two countries. Additionally, he had the opportunity to witness a captivating performance by the Quan Ho Art Theater group, showcasing the artistic synergy between India and Vietnam.
Exploring Buddhist Cultural Connections
In a testament to the enduring cultural ties, Jaishankar visited the Phat Tich Pagoda, a Buddhist cultural center located in Bac Ninh province. The Pagoda holds immense cultural and sculptural significance, dating back to the Ly Dynasty. During this visit, Jaishankar met with the Most Ven. Thich Thanh Nhieu of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, further deepening the cultural connections between the nations.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The External Affairs Minister’s visit to Vietnam is not just symbolic but carries substantial diplomatic weight. He is in Vietnam at the invitation of his counterpart, Bui Thanh Son, and will co-chair the 18th meeting of the India-Vietnam Joint Commission on Economic, Trade, Scientific, and Technological Cooperation.
India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
India and Vietnam share a robust Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with Vietnam being a key member of India’s Act East Policy. Jaishankar’s visit offers a prime opportunity to assess progress in various sectors and explore avenues for further enhancing bilateral cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Next Stop: Singapore
Following his visit to Vietnam, S Jaishankar is set to depart for Singapore on an official visit from October 19-20. This diplomatic tour underscores India’s commitment to fortify its relationships with key Southeast Asian nations, bolstering the country’s role in the region.