During this event, Deputy Defence Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh and his Russian counterpart discussed major security challenges for their mutual countries, including issues in the East Sea.
The two sides used the meeting to air opinions on Russia’s strategic interests in Asia-Pacific region and Europe that might affect Vietnam. The topic included the East Sea dispute which is considered the most challenging issue in terms of peace, stability, security and aviation safety in the East Sea.
"The two sides agreed that the East Sea situation has become more complicated, not only concerning territorial and natural resources disputes, but also when it comes to defining territorial waters at sea and strategic competition between major countries. If the strategic competition brings benefits for the region, it will be supported. However, if it increases tension and creates an arms race in the Asia-Pacific region, it would be very dangerous", Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, Vietnamese Deputy Defence Minister, said.
The two sides have highlighted acts that run counter to international law, and threaten aviation safety as worrisome issues for both Vietnam and Russia. The two countries agreed that any challenges should be peacefully resolved for the benefit of the involved parties, and based on mutual respect and international law.
Deputy Defence Minister Nguyen Chi Vinh emphasised that the legal framework had guaranteed peace for many years, adding that it was not imposed upon the region and had not been pushed in the interests of any one nation. Defence co-operation between Vietnam and Russia will provide mutual support in terms of addressing issues in the region.
