Vietnamese President To Lam began his first state visit to India on Wednesday with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit follows his election as Vietnam's president in April and marks a key moment in India-Vietnam bilateral relations. Lam also held talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval ahead of his meeting with Modi.

The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in trade, defence, and emerging technologies, with a focus on maritime security and submarine rescue mechanisms established through a recent bilateral agreement. India and Vietnam reaffirmed commitment to a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, including freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Discussions touched on regional developments, including the situation in the South China Sea, where Vietnam and other ASEAN nations have contested claims with China over maritime sovereignty. India has consistently supported adherence to international law in resolving such disputes. President Murmu is scheduled to hold separate talks with Lam during the visit.

To Lam is set to travel to Bodh Gaya and Mumbai before concluding his three-day trip. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that the visit will deepen strategic coordination between the two nations. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.