Gen. Giang noted that Kalinak’s visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Slovakia (1950–2025), providing new momentum to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and effectively implement the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation.

He expressed confidence Kalinak’s visit would help deepen bilateral defence cooperation in a substantive and effective manner, commensurate with the potential of both countries, for the benefit of the two countries and for peace, stability, and shared development in the region and the world at large.

Gen. Giang affirmed that the Party, State, and Government of Vietnam always value the consolidation and development of the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Slovakia. He thanked Slovakia for its valuable support given to Vietnam during the struggle for national independence and reunification in the past, as well as in the current process of national development and international integration.

Despite the geographical distance, he said, the two countries still have ample room and potential for cooperation across all fields, including defence.

Both sides exchanged views on regional and global developments, as well as issues of mutual interest. In recent years, defence cooperation between the Ministry of National Defence of Vietnam and the Ministry of Defence of Slovakia has been implemented in accordance with the 2015 Memorandum of Understanding, achieving positive results.

Gen. Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s adherence to its “Four Nos” defence policy while expressing the desire to expand both bilateral and multilateral defence cooperation based on equality and mutual respect.

He proposed that the two sides strengthen exchanges and establish cooperation mechanisms to enhance mutual understanding; promote military training, including Slovakia hosting Vietnamese personnel for Slovak language and specialised courses, and Vietnam hosting Slovak personnel for Vietnamese language and International Defence Officers courses.

Cooperation will also be expanded into other areas such as UN peacekeeping, defence industry, cybersecurity, mine clearance, war aftermath remediation, and responses to non-traditional security challenges, while supporting each other within the framework of Vietnam–EU cooperation.

For his part, Kalinak expressed satisfaction with the progress of defence cooperation, highlighted the significance of the long-standing traditional relationship, and agreed to appoint a Slovak Defence Attaché in Vietnam.

He proposed increasing cooperation in strategic areas such as the defence industry, high-level delegation exchanges, and cybersecurity.

During the talks, Gen. Giang cordially invited Deputy Prime Minister Robert Kalinak and leading Slovak defence industry enterprises to attend the 3rd Vietnam International Defence Expo, scheduled for late 2026.

Slovakia lauds Vietnam’s regional role and standing

VOV.VN - Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed high regard for Vietnam’s position and role in the region during a reception given by President Luong Cuong in Beijing on September 3, as part of his participation in the 80th anniversary of the world’s victory over fascism and working trip to China.