Hanoi (VNA) – Minister of National Defence General Phan Văn Giang on February 25 met with Acting Secretary for Defence of South Africa Thobekile Gamede as part of the latter's visit to Vietnam to co-chair the third Vietnam-South Africa Defence Policy Dialogue.
Appreciating the results of the dialogue, Giang emphasised that through the event, the two sides exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern, as well as the outcomes of defence cooperation, and directions for the time ahead.
He affirmed that the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence will instruct relevant agencies to actively implement the agreements reached at the dialogue.
Giang highlighted South Africa's important role and position in Africa, noting its rich natural resources, significant economic potential, developed industrial and agricultural sectors, and advanced science and technology.
Congratulating South Africa on its achievements in the defence industry and recognising its active participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations in Africa, Giang emphasised that the defence cooperation between Vietnam and South Africa has always been a priority of the two defence ministries. Attention has been paid to the implementation of the 2006 defence cooperation agreement, which has yielded positive results in areas such as dialogue, delegation exchange, defence industry, logistics, and military medicine.
The host minister said that he hopes in the coming time, both sides will promote existing cooperation areas, enhance collaboration in other potential spheres, and prioritise high-level contacts through delegation exchanges and dialogue mechanisms, which will help both parties share strategic visions and establish future cooperation directions.
Additionally, he suggested exploring the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation, which will serve as an important foundation to enhance the defence ties in a more substantive and effective manner.
For her part, Gamede expressed her delight at the dialogue outcomes, particularly regarding the continued sharing and effective cooperation in the area of UN peacekeeping.
This is a field where both South Africa and Vietnam have actively participated and made significant contributions to noble humanitarian missions in conflict-affected regions.
Gamede expressed her hope that in the coming time, the two sides will actively coordinate and strengthen cooperation in the agreed areas, thereby contributing to the further development of the relationship between the two ministries./.
