Defense Minister receives commanding officer of the Thai military forces
## Strengthening Defense Ties: Vietnam and Thailand's Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
In a significant development, the defense ties between Vietnam and Thailand have been strengthening, with both nations focusing on maritime security and regional peace. This renewed focus comes following a visit by **Gen. Songwit Noonpackdee**, Chief of Defence Forces of Thailand, to Vietnam in July 2022.
During his visit, Gen. Noonpackdee was received by **Gen. Phan Văn Giang**, Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence of Vietnam, in Hà Nội on July 5. The two officials held talks on deepening defense cooperation between the two countries [1].
Gen. Phan Văn Giang acknowledged the proactive role of Thailand, particularly its Ministry of Defence and Royal Thai Army, in promoting multilateral cooperation, especially within ASEAN [2]. He emphasized the need for strategic consultations and exchanges between the two militaries, as well as boosting fruitful coordination between the military arms and services of both countries [3].
Gen. Songwit Noonpackdee expressed his belief in Vietnam's ongoing historic reform for building the two-tier local administration model [4]. He also expressed his hope for further strengthening effective collaboration between the two militaries.
The minister applauded the outcomes of the talks held on July 4 between Noonpackdee and **Gen. Nguyễn Tân Cương**, Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army and Deputy Minister of National Defense. The minister also affirmed that Việt Nam always attached great importance to strengthening its close friendship and good cooperation with Thailand [5].
The elevation of Việt Nam - Thailand relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership in May 2025 marked a historic milestone. This partnership underscores the importance of defense cooperation as a key pillar [6]. Both countries have expressed a desire to enhance mutual understanding and trust through strategic consultations and exchanges of delegations at all levels [3].
Looking forward, both sides aim to increase delegation exchanges, leverage existing cooperation mechanisms, and foster more practical collaboration, particularly in maritime law enforcement and defense training [2][3]. They also plan to explore other potential areas of cooperation and enhance mutual support at multilateral forums [2].
Gen. Phan Văn Giang suggested expanding ties in potential areas aligned with each side's demand and strengths [7]. He also suggested all-level mutual visits between the two militaries to foster greater understanding and trust [8]. The Ministry of National Defence of Vietnam supports deeper cooperation between the Vietnamese and Thai militaries, with a focus on enhancing regional security and stability.
In the realm of general news, discussions about strengthening the defense ties between Vietnam and Thailand, particularly in areas of maritime security and regional peace, are of significant interest, given their ongoing comprehensive strategic partnership. The desire for strategic consultations, exchanges, and enhanced collaboration extends beyond defense to include areas such as maritime law enforcement and defense training, as both countries look to boost these partnerships.
