Vietnam’s To Lam eyes trade, defence boost during trip to Australia, New Zealand

A visit by Vietnam’s top leader To Lam to Australia and New Zealand this week is expected to lead to stronger maritime security cooperation, especially in intelligence-sharing and joint patrols. The Vietnamese president is seeking to bolster partnerships and strengthen cooperation in science and technology, according to a government statement.During Lam’s six-day trip, which ends on Friday, he is expected to sign 12 to 16 agreements with Canberra – covering education, digital transformation, agriculture and healthcare.“We agree that, amid rapid and complex developments around the world, countries need to strengthen dialogue, build trust, ensure security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, and settle disputes by peaceful means in accordance with international law,” Lam said in a joint media appearance with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday.