In a significant diplomatic move, Azerbaijani Minister of Defence Industry Vugar Mustafayev met with Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang in Hanoi on December 25. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to bolstering defence industry cooperation and exploring avenues for joint technology production and transfer.
General Giang welcomed Minister Mustafayev, emphasising the importance Vietnam places on strengthening its traditional friendship with Azerbaijan. This bond, he noted, was established by the late Presidents Ho Chi Minh and Heydar Aliyev and nurtured by subsequent generations of leaders. “The Vietnamese people and army value the support provided by Azerbaijan during Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification, as well as during its ongoing development,” General Giang stated. In May 2025, these relations were elevated to the level of a strategic partnership, reflecting the depth of mutual respect and cooperation.
The ministers discussed the progress of defence relations between Vietnam and Azerbaijan, which are advancing in line with directives from both countries’ leaders and defence ministries. “Defence relations between Vietnam and Azerbaijan are progressing in line with directives from the leaders and defence ministries of both countries and the signed cooperation agreements,” General Giang said. He highlighted positive outcomes, particularly in the exchange of delegations at various levels and within the defence industry.
Looking ahead, General Giang proposed accelerating the signing of defence industry cooperation agreements to ensure deeper collaboration based on mutual needs and capabilities. He suggested intensifying the exchange of delegations at all levels, supporting and participating in defence industry exhibitions organised by both sides, developing military trade, and exploring opportunities for joint technology production and transfer. Additionally, he proposed training skilled personnel to enhance both nations’ defence capabilities.
Vietnam is set to host the 3rd International Defence Industry Exhibition in 2026, and General Giang extended an invitation to Minister Mustafayev and representatives of Azerbaijan’s defence industry to participate. “We invite you to visit the country, participate in the event, and showcase your products,” Giang said, underscoring the importance of such engagements in fostering mutual growth and innovation.
In response, Minister Mustafayev affirmed that his visit reflects the growing bilateral defence industry relations. He praised years of cooperation in economics, energy, trade, and technology, and confirmed Azerbaijan’s readiness to deepen ties in agreed areas, particularly defence, based on shared interests and needs. “Azerbaijan is ready to deepen ties in agreed areas, particularly defence, based on shared interests and needs, with the goal of further strengthening the effective development of overall bilateral relations,” Mustafayev stated.
This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the defence cooperation between Vietnam and Azerbaijan, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration and mutual growth in the defence industry. As both nations continue to strengthen their strategic partnership, the potential for joint technological advancements and defence innovation becomes increasingly promising.