Hanoi, May 19 -- Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday held a ministerial-level bilateral meeting with Vietnamese Minister of National Defence Phan Van Giang in Hanoi, as India and Vietnam reviewed expanding defence ties and regional security cooperation.

During the talks, Singh highlighted the historical foundations of the India-Vietnam relationship and underscored the significance of his visit coinciding with the 136th birth anniversary of former Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh.

"It is a privilege for me to be present in Vietnam for this important meeting. I feel particularly proud that our meeting is taking place on the occasion of the 136th birth anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh. He was a visionary leader who is held ...