New Delhi, May 6 (IANS). India and Vietnam on Wednesday reiterated their commitment to strengthen cooperation in the health sector, while also stressing the importance of linking technologies like UPI-based digital payments between the two countries.
In a statement issued after a joint press conference in the national capital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnamese President To Lam praised the progress of the Indian pharmaceutical industry.
Both countries agreed that avenues will be explored for possible participation of Indian companies in the procurement of medicines for government health institutions of Vietnam from 2027.
In view of the increasing importance of technology, both sides emphasized on enhancing cooperation in digital transformation of the health sector, especially encouraging the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Noting the rich heritage of traditional medicine in both countries, the leaders agreed to promote exchange of knowledge, research and best practices and strengthen institutional cooperation.
They welcomed the progress towards finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Traditional Medicine and also appreciated the proposal to establish an Academic Chair for Ayurveda in Vietnam.
The leaders welcomed the Agreement on Financial Innovation and Digital Payments between the Reserve Bank of India and the State Bank of Vietnam, reiterating the importance of digital technologies.
Both countries agreed to link retail payment platforms through QR codes, which will boost tourism and trade.
According to the official statement, both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as digital public infrastructure, 6G, artificial intelligence, space and nuclear technology, marine sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced materials and critical minerals.
The statement said the cooperation will focus on practical initiatives, such as joint research, R&D centers and product development, which will benefit both countries.
The leaders also acknowledged the importance of institutions such as Mission Life (Lifestyle for the Environment) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). India welcomed Vietnam’s interest in joining the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA).
He also highlighted the role of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in reducing disaster risks and enhancing resilience and stressed the need to promote the use of digital and advanced technologies in smart agriculture, water management and air pollution control.
The leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation in the field of peaceful uses of nuclear energy and agreed to further enhance cooperation in this area.
India appreciated Vietnam’s invitation to participate in its nuclear energy sector.
The two leaders welcomed the agreement signed between IREL (India) Limited and the Institute of Vietnam for cooperation in the field of rare earths and stressed its early implementation.
The two countries also agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of marine science, including marine observations, data management, forecasting services, capacity building and marine scientific research.
–IANS
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