China’s PLA invited to Vietnam military parade as both sides pledge closer defence ties

Invite comes as Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun meets Vietnamese counterpart Phan Van Giang days after state visit by President Xi

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Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun (right) and Vietnam’s Phan Van Giang inspect a guard of honour at the Huu Nghi international border gate in Lang Son province on Thursday. Photo: Handout

Published: 5:28pm, 18 Apr 2025Updated: 8:21pm, 18 Apr 2025

China and Vietnam have agreed to bolster defence cooperation, with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) receiving an invitation to take part in a Vietnamese military parade later this month.

The invite came as Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun met his counterpart Phan Van Giang in northern Vietnam on Thursday, and as the navies of the two countries wrapped up their 38th joint patrol.

The talks in Lang Son – held as part of the 9th China-Vietnam Border Defence Friendship Exchange – saw both sides explore closer military cooperation as well as the signing of a framework agreement to boost border force collaboration.

“The relationship between China and Vietnam is one of comradeship and brotherhood,” Dong said, as he emphasised the strategic value of their military ties.

“Our two militaries must further enhance strategic communication, deepen exchanges at all levels and in all fields, improve the effectiveness of border defence friendship activities, and continuously expand practical cooperation.”

Phan invited Dong to attend a national military parade in Ho Chi Minh City on April 30, marking the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification. The invitation was also extended to the PLA, for its troops to take part in the parade, according to Vietnam’s People’s Army Newspaper.