Marcos meets Chinh to strengthen Philippines-Vietnam ties

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Tuesday during his visit to Laos for the ASEAN Summit, aiming to strengthen ties between the Philippines and Vietnam.

Both leaders discussed deepening economic cooperation in areas such as trade and agriculture, reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing strategic partnership, and addressed mutual concerns in the region, including Chinese assertiveness.

Marcos expressed satisfaction with the effective implementation of previous agreements signed during his January 2024 state visit to Vietnam, emphasizing new areas of cooperation and closer maritime ties.

Prime Minister Chinh reiterated Hanoi's commitment to a strategic partnership with Manila, emphasizing peaceful resolution of disputes and joint efforts against Chinese claims in the South China Sea, while noting recent incidents involving Chinese vessels near disputed waters.

The two leaders agreed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Philippines-Vietnam Strategic Partnership in 2025 by enhancing collaboration in key sectors and addressing mutual concerns in the region, including upcoming defense ties with a landmark pact expected by year-end.

President Marcos also extended his condolences for the losses caused by Typhoon Yagi and the passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.