Australia and Vietnam Deepen Military and Trade Ties

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Vietnamese President To Lam met in Canberra on Tuesday to expand military cooperation and strengthen trade links. The leaders pledged to develop resilient supply chains for critical minerals, clean energy, and semiconductors. They also vowed to collaborate in countering transnational organized crime and people smuggling.

Both leaders expressed concern regarding the South China Sea, emphasizing the necessity of freedom of navigation and overflight. They called for the peaceful resolution of regional disputes through diplomatic processes. This meeting follows the March 2024 upgrade of the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

To mark the diplomatic visit, Vietjet Aviation JSC announced the launch of a new direct flight service between Ho Chi Minh City and Western Sydney, scheduled to begin in January 2027.