2026, Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A

Act East Policy is an impression of the enhanced strategic emphasis and the new strategic outlook in India’s eastward engagement. It seeks to deepen cooperation with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, with a particular focus on fostering ties with Southeast and East Asian nations. Vietnam is a key regional power, regarded as a trusted and privileged strategic partner and a significant pillar of the policy. Further, Engagement between these two countries underscores the role and significance of maintaining security, stability and growth in the region. Balancing against the rise of China is another key driver for New Delhi’s Act East stance. China is a major strategic rival for India and Vietnam, and its aggressive rise in the region is a shared concern for both states. The paper examines the mushrooming bilateral engagement between Vietnam and India within India’s Act East Policy (AEP) framework. Through the analysis of diplomatic, economic, and strategic dimensions, this study highlights the multifaced cooperation between these partner countries. The paper also underscores the importance of New Delhi and Hanoi’s relationship in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific construct and offers insights for further strengthening bilateral ties. Overall, it explores the challenges and opportunities confronting the India-Vietnam partnership.