The Indian Coast Guard and Vietnam Coast Guard held their seventh high-level meeting in Chennai on August 25, 2026, the Ministry of Defence announced. The talks brought together senior officers from both nations to discuss maritime cooperation under a framework agreement signed in 2015. The meeting reflects India and Vietnam’s shared focus on safety and security in ocean waters.
What was discussed
Director General Paramesh Sivamani of the Indian Coast Guard and Major General Luong Dinh Hung, Vice Commandant of the Vietnam Coast Guard, led the discussions. Both sides reviewed their existing working relationship and explored ways to expand it further.
The main topics covered included:
- Maritime Search and Rescue operations
- Maritime Law Enforcement
- Marine Pollution Response
- Capacity building programmes
The two nations confirmed their intention to strengthen these areas through regular professional exchanges, training programmes, ship visits, and sharing of operational methods. Both Coast Guards stressed that frequent institutional contact and joint training help build trust and improve how well their forces can work together during actual operations.
India and Vietnam also committed themselves to supporting maritime safety, security and environmental protection across the region.
What comes next
A joint maritime exercise called SAHYOG-HOPTAC was scheduled for August 27, 2026, just two days after the high-level meeting. This at-sea exercise allows personnel from both Coast Guards to practise working together, test their ability to coordinate during real situations, and learn from each other’s methods and experience.
What this means for you
These meetings signal India’s growing maritime partnership with Southeast Asian nations. Stronger cooperation with Vietnam’s Coast Guard helps both countries tackle challenges like illegal fishing, pollution and rescue operations in shared waters. For Indian citizens and businesses relying on maritime trade or operating in ocean regions, improved coordination between the two nations provides greater security and safety standards.