India and Vietnam have decided to deepen cooperation in several important sectors, including healthcare, digital payments, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology.
The announcement was made after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Vietnamese President To Lam on Wednesday.
Both leaders highlighted the growing partnership between the two countries and agreed to work more closely in areas that can benefit businesses, healthcare systems, and technological development.
Big Push for Healthcare Cooperation
India and Vietnam agreed to strengthen ties in the health sector, especially in medicines and digital healthcare.
The two countries acknowledged the progress made by India’s pharmaceutical industry and discussed the possibility of Indian companies supplying medicines to Vietnamese public healthcare facilities from 2027.
The leaders also supported greater cooperation in digital healthcare, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical services.
Traditional Medicine Gets Attention
Traditional medicine was another major focus of the discussions.
Since both countries have a long history of traditional healing systems, the leaders agreed to promote:
Exchange of knowledge
Joint research
Sharing of best practices
They also welcomed progress on a proposed agreement related to traditional medicine and an Academic Chair in Ayurveda in Vietnam.
UPI and Digital Payments Could Expand to Vietnam
India and Vietnam also discussed strengthening digital payment systems between the two countries.
The leaders welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the State Bank of Vietnam on digital payments and financial innovation.
Both countries now plan to explore retail payment connections through QR codes, which could make payments easier for tourists and businesses.
This move may eventually help Indian travellers use UPI-based payment systems more smoothly in Vietnam.
Cooperation in AI, 6G and Space Technology
The two nations also agreed to increase collaboration in several future-focused sectors, including:
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
6G technologlogy
BiotechnologySpace technoy
Pharmaceuticals
Critical minerals
Marine sciences
The partnership will focus on practical projects such as joint research, research and development centres, and product innovation.
Focus on Clean Energy and Environment
India welcomed Vietnam’s interest in joining the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA).
The leaders also discussed cooperation in:
Sustainable water management
Air pollution control
Smart agriculture
Renewable energy
They recognised the importance of initiatives like Mission LiFE and the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in promoting environmental sustainability.
Stronger Partnership in Nuclear and Maritime Sectors
India and Vietnam also agreed to expand cooperation in the peaceful use of atomic energy.
India appreciated Vietnam’s invitation to participate in its nuclear power sector.
two countries also signed an agreement related to cooperation in rare earth materials.
Apart from this, both nations decided to improve collaboration in oceanography and maritime scientific research, including ocean data management and marine prediction systems.
The latest agreements show that India and Vietnam are looking to build a stronger long-term partnership across healthcare, technology, energy, and digital infrastructure.
