Australia and Vietnam deepen strategic partnership

Australia and Vietnam have elevated their relationship by agreeing to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership, marked by the signing of several cooperation agreements. The pacts span crucial areas including defense, agriculture, and border security, signaling a strengthened alliance between the two nations.

During Vietnamese President To Lam's official visit to Australia, both leaders, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and President Lam, jointly voiced concerns regarding restrictive trade practices that destabilize global supply chains. They committed to enhancing collaboration in vital sectors such as critical minerals, semiconductors, and clean energy, aiming to build more resilient supply networks.

The deepening partnership includes a memorandum of understanding between the Vietnam Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force to bolster maritime law enforcement cooperation. Further agreements were signed to improve collaboration and mutual assistance between their respective border forces, as stated by the Vietnamese government.

President Lam emphasized the importance of dialogue and trust-building amid global complexities, stating, "We agree that, amid rapid and complex developments around the world, countries need to strengthen dialogue, build trust, ensure security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, and settle disputes by peaceful means in accordance with international law." This sentiment underscores a shared commitment to regional stability and adherence to international legal frameworks.

Bilateral trade between Australia and Vietnam has shown robust growth, increasing by 22% year-on-year in the first half of 2026 to reach $8.1 billion. Key Vietnamese exports to Australia include electronics and garments, while Australia's primary exports to Vietnam consist of coal, minerals, and natural gas.

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We agree that, amid rapid and complex developments around the world, countries need to strengthen dialogue, build trust, ensure security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, and settle disputes by peaceful means in accordance with international law.