Australia, Vietnam Pledge Stronger Defense and Economic Cooperation

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Vietnamese President To Lam met in Canberra on Tuesday, agreeing to strengthen defense and economic cooperation between their nations.

Lam received a ceremonial welcome, including an honor guard inspection, before talks with Albanese and their respective delegations. The leaders focused on enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established last year.

Albanese announced a new joint statement on economic resilience, emphasizing the importance of reliable supply chains in an increasingly uncertain global environment. "Whether it's food, energy, or critical goods, both our countries have an interest in keeping trade open and reliable," he said.

The leaders also agreed to expand cooperation in defense, maritime and border security, the digital economy, agriculture, energy, minerals, and science. In a notable development, Vietnam will open its market to Australian kangaroo and deer meat, potentially generating up to half a million dollars in trade for Australian exporters.

Lam arrived in Australia late Sunday for his first visit as Vietnamese leader.