The talks were held as part of the ninth Vietnam – China Border Defence Friendship Exchange taking place in Lang Son (Vietnam) and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (China) on April 16-17.

Giang affirmed that prior activities, such as medical treatment and free medicine distribution to people in border regions, exchanges between localities, citizens, and students, as well as young officer exchanges, have significantly contributed to the realization of the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Cultural Exchange.

These activities serve as a solid foundation for maintaining stable borders and promoting the development of bilateral relations, he said, adding that the joint patrols in the Gulf of Tonkin between the Vietnamese and Chinese navies marked a significant milestone in defence cooperation.

Giang maintained that defence cooperation between the two sides has been promoted and achieved practical results in recent times. Key areas of progress include high-level delegations, enhanced cooperation mechanisms, and closer military cooperation along the Vietnam-China border. Border management forces from both sides have continued to actively cooperate in combating crime and ensuring border security.

Furthermore, maritime border cooperation has expanded, with the navy and coast guard of both countries continuing to implement effective bilateral cooperation mechanisms. Cooperation on political work, military exchanges, and defence industry has been strengthened.

Giang reiterated Vietnam’s deep gratitude and appreciation for China’s valuable support during Vietnam’s past struggle for independence as well as its current national development. In early April 2025, Vietnam’s Ministry of Defence completed the restoration of Chinese war cemeteries in Vietnam.

Building on the shared understanding of senior leaders from both countries, especially following the state visit to Vietnam by Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, the two Ministers agreed to maintain the exchange of delegations at all levels, the continuation of effective bilateral cooperation mechanisms, and increased collaboration in border management, naval and coast guard cooperation, and defence industry development.

During the discussions, the two sides also shared their perspectives on global and regional security issues of mutual concern.

Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, emphasizing the country’s commitment to multilateralising and diversifying international relations. Vietnam seeks to befriend all nations, especially neighbours, and remains steadfast in its “Four No’s” defence policy: no military alliances, no alignment with one country to counter another, no foreign military bases on Vietnamese soil, and no use or threat of force in international relations.

Regarding the East Sea (known internationally as South China Sea), Vietnam remains committed to resolving the issue peacefully, adhering to the common understanding between the two countries’ senior leaders. Vietnam also abides by international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC). Vietnam hopes that China and ASEAN will soon sign a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

As part of the discussions, Giang extended a formal invitation to Dong to attend the 50th Anniversary of the Liberation of South Vietnam and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - 2025) in Ho Chi Minh City, and invited a Chinese military delegation to participate in the military parade to be held during the commemorations.

For his part, Dong thanked Giang and the Ministry of Defence of Vietnam for their excellent organisation of activities, contributing to the success of the ninth joint Border Defence Friendship Exchange.

He emphasised that the exchange, which followed Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam, reflects the strong will of the two Parties, governments, and peoples to further strengthen the traditional friendship and enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two Ministers witnessed the signing of a twin-town agreement between the Border guard post of the Huu Nghi (Friendship) International Border Gate of Lang Son province and the Pingxiang border guard meeting stations of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Chinese defence chief Dong Jun arrives in Vietnam for border friendship exchange

VOV.VN - Senior Lieutenant General Dong Jun, Minister of National Defence of China arrived in northern Lang Son province on April 17 morning for the 9th Vietnam-China Border Defence Friendship Exchange.