New Delhi, May 6: India and Vietnam reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in the healthcare sector on Wednesday. They also emphasized the importance of integrating technologies like UPI-based digital payments between the two nations.
In a joint press conference following their meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong praised the advancements of the Indian pharmaceutical industry.
Both countries agreed to explore potential participation of Indian companies in drug procurement for Vietnam’s government health institutions starting in 2027.
Recognizing the growing significance of technology, both parties stressed the need to boost collaboration in the digital transformation of healthcare, particularly in promoting the use of artificial intelligence.
Considering the rich heritage of traditional medicine in both nations, the leaders agreed to enhance the exchange of knowledge, research, and best practices, as well as strengthen institutional cooperation.
They welcomed progress towards finalizing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on traditional medicine and appreciated the proposal to establish an academic chair for Ayurveda in Vietnam.
The leaders reiterated the importance of digital technologies and welcomed the agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the State Bank of Vietnam on financial innovation and digital payments.
Both countries agreed to connect retail payment platforms through QR codes, which will boost tourism and trade.
According to the official statement, the two sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in various fields, including digital public infrastructure, 6G, artificial intelligence, space and nuclear technology, marine science, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, and critical minerals.
The statement noted that cooperation would focus on practical initiatives, such as joint research, research and development centers, and product development, benefiting both nations.
The leaders acknowledged the importance of institutions like Mission Life (Lifestyle for Environment) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). India welcomed Vietnam’s interest in joining the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA).
They also highlighted the critical role of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in reducing disaster risk and enhancing resilience, emphasizing the promotion of digital and advanced technologies in smart agriculture, water management, and air pollution control.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with ongoing cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and agreed to further enhance collaboration in this area. India appreciated Vietnam’s invitation to participate in its nuclear energy sector.
Both leaders welcomed the agreement between IREL (India) Limited and a Vietnamese institution for collaboration in the rare earth minerals sector and stressed the need for its swift implementation.
They also agreed to enhance cooperation in marine science, which includes marine observation, data management, forecasting services, capacity building, and marine scientific research.
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