Australia and Vietnam Enhance Strategic Defence Ties

During Vietnamese President To Lam's official visit to Australia, he and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a joint statement emphasizing the need to deepen strategic ties, particularly in response to restrictive trade practices affecting global supply chains. They agreed to enhance cooperation on critical minerals, semiconductors, and clean energy.

A memorandum of understanding was exchanged between the Vietnam Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force to improve maritime law enforcement collaboration. Additionally, an agreement was signed to bolster cooperation and mutual assistance between the border forces of both nations.

The leaders noted that Australia regularly deploys naval vessels and surveillance aircraft in the South China Sea as part of its Indo-Pacific operations. Bilateral trade between Australia and Vietnam surged by 22% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, reaching $8.1 billion, with Vietnam exporting electronics, smartphones, and garments to Australia, while importing coal, minerals, and natural gas.