Vietnam and Sri Lanka have reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in national defence and security, according to a joint statement released at the conclusion of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s state visit to Vietnam from May 4 to 6.
The two sides agreed to review and renew the existing Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation, with plans to increase the exchange of defence delegations and promote collaboration in defence studies. This includes institutional linkages between Vietnam’s National Defence Academy and Sri Lanka’s General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University.
They also agreed to expand cooperation in areas such as education and training, intelligence sharing, and participation in UN Peacekeeping operations. Emphasis was placed on joint efforts to combat transnational crimes including terrorism, illegal immigration, and cybercrimes.
The statement further highlighted the importance of cooperation in the defence industry to enhance capacity building, and the strengthening of ties between the Ministries of Public Security in both countries.
President Dissanayake’s visit was made at the invitation of Vietnamese President Luong Cuong and marks a renewed commitment to deepening bilateral relations.
