On Wednesday, India and Vietnam announced the elevation of their bilateral relations to an enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership. This significant development was confirmed during discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President To Lam, who is on his first state visit to India since taking office. The partnership aims to bolster economic and defense ties, with both leaders emphasizing a shared vision for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of China's increasing military assertiveness. Modi highlighted Vietnam's role as a key pillar in India's Act East Policy and expressed intentions to strengthen cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Additionally, the two countries plan to enhance financial connectivity by linking India's UPI with Vietnam's fast payment system. Previous agreements include a pact for submarine search and rescue operations and a letter of intent to enhance collaboration in the defense industry.