Vietnam and Australia have held their 11th Diplomatic and Defence Strategic Dialogue in Hanoi, reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation on security, trade, investment and regional stability. The meeting brought together senior officials from both countries and formed part of efforts to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in March 2024.
The dialogue was co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Manh Cuong and Deputy Minister of National Defence Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Truong Thang. Australia was represented by Michelle Chan, Deputy Secretary for the South and Southeast Asia Group at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Hugh Jeffrey, a senior official responsible for defence strategy and international cooperation.
Both sides described their countries as reliable partners with many shared views on regional and international issues. They reviewed developments in bilateral relations and discussed ways to increase cooperation through diplomatic and defence channels. The meeting also provided an opportunity to assess existing programmes and identify areas where closer coordination could produce practical benefits.
Economic cooperation was an important part of the discussions. Vietnam and Australia agreed to promote two-way trade and investment while supporting an open, inclusive, fair and rules-based international trading system. They also discussed the need to diversify supply chains, particularly in the energy sector, as countries seek to reduce risks created by international disruptions.
Energy security was another major area of interest. The two countries recognised the importance of cooperation in energy reserves and supply-chain resilience. Stronger links in this field could help both economies respond to changing market conditions and improve the reliability of essential resources.
The officials also discussed science and technology, particularly strategic technologies, artificial intelligence and data security. These areas are becoming increasingly important to national economic development and security. Both countries want to improve their ability to use new technology while protecting important information and maintaining control over critical systems.
Defence cooperation remains another important pillar of the partnership. The two sides have developed exchanges involving military officials, training programmes, peacekeeping and cooperation on regional security. Continued dialogue is expected to help strengthen mutual understanding and improve coordination on issues affecting the wider Indo-Pacific region.
The meeting also reflected the broader diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and Australia. Since their partnership was upgraded in 2024, both countries have sought to expand cooperation beyond traditional trade and education links. Their agenda now includes energy, defence, digital technology, infrastructure and strategic supply chains.
The latest dialogue demonstrates that both governments want their relationship to deliver practical results. Increasing investment, improving security cooperation and supporting technology development could create opportunities for businesses and public institutions in both countries.
As regional competition and international uncertainty continue to influence economic and security decisions, Vietnam and Australia are seeking to maintain strong communication. Their cooperation is expected to remain important in efforts to promote stability, strengthen economic resilience and develop closer links across the Indo-Pacific.
