On September 17, Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh led Vietnam’s delegation at talks with the Russian Maritime Council in Moscow, chaired by Presidential Aide Nikolai Patrushev.

Minister Tran Hong Minh (center) emphasized strengthening Vietnam–Russia cooperation in maritime and transport development.

Minister Tran Hong Minh emphasized the traditional friendship and comprehensive partnership between the two nations, highlighting transport and maritime sectors as key drivers of economic growth, trade, and tourism.

Both sides proposed cooperation in port construction, cargo transportation, transit shipping, shipbuilding, and oil-and-gas equipment supply. They also discussed opening new transport routes and creating favorable trade policies.

Minister Tran Hong Minh welcomed these proposals and urged Russia to accelerate procedures for signing the amended 1993 Commercial Maritime Agreement and a new Memorandum of Understanding with Vietnam’s Ministry of Construction.

He also praised Russia’s North–South Transport Corridor initiative, which could expand Vietnamese exports to Middle Eastern and Russian markets. In addition, he called for Russian support in training programs, scholarships, and professional development for Vietnamese maritime personnel.

Minister Tran Hong Minh (left) and Chairman Nikolai Patrushev (right) exchanged commemorative gifts, reaffirming the traditional Vietnam–Russia friendship.

The Vietnam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration was tasked to coordinate follow-up cooperation in shipbuilding, port development, and logistics. Both sides concluded by affirming their commitment to active exchanges and practical, effective collaboration.