Seasoned IFS Officer to Deepen Strategic Bilateral Engagements
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday announced the appointment of Tshering Wangchuk Sherpa, a 2002-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), as the next Ambassador of India to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Currently serving as Joint Secretary in the MEA, Mr. Sherpa is expected to take charge of his new responsibilities in Hanoi shortly.
“Tshering Wangchuk Sherpa (IFS:2002), presently Joint Secretary in the Ministry, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam,” the MEA said in its official communiqué.
Veteran Diplomat with Extensive Foreign Policy Experience
Mr. Sherpa brings with him over two decades of distinguished diplomatic service. Over the course of his career, he has played a significant role in advancing India’s foreign policy priorities across diverse domains, ranging from bilateral negotiations to multilateral diplomacy. Recognized for his strategic acumen and nuanced understanding of global affairs, his appointment is viewed as a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to further strengthening ties with Vietnam — one of its most crucial partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
India–Vietnam Relations: A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
India and Vietnam share a relationship that has long been marked by mutual trust, cultural affinity, and strategic convergence.
Key milestones in this enduring partnership include:
Diplomatic relations established: 7 January 1972
Strategic Partnership formalized: 2007
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership elevated: 2016, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Vietnam
Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity and People adopted: 2020
50 years of diplomatic ties celebrated: 2022, with renewed commitments to cooperation in defense, trade, education, digital technology, and energy sectors
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has maintained a consistent engagement with Vietnam’s leadership, with recent exchanges involving General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and former Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, further reinforcing the strategic trust between the two nations.
Recent Diplomatic Appointments Highlight Regional Priorities
Mr. Sherpa’s appointment follows a series of important foreign postings announced by the MEA. Earlier this week, Rohit Rathish, also serving as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry, was appointed High Commissioner of India to Seychelles. These appointments underscore India’s strategy of positioning experienced diplomats in strategically significant geographies, at a time when the global order continues to evolve and regional partnerships are gaining greater salience.
