Vietnam: Several Indians Feared Killed As Boat Capsizes Near Phu Quoc Island

Hanoi: Several Indian tourists are feared to be killed after a boat capsized near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Islan. The Indian Embassy informed that it is in touch with local authorities and closely monitoring the situation.

"In a tragic incident, a boat carrying several Indian tourists has capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago. Exact details of the incident are being ascertained as search and rescue operations by local authorities are ongoing,” Indian embassy in Veitnam posted on X.

Eyewitnesses reported that other boats in the vicinity immediately rushed to the scene and began pulling passengers out of the water. Subsequently, the Border Security Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and other rescue agencies also arrived at the site. However, the rescue operation proved challenging due to high waves and the fact that many people were trapped inside the boat. According to officials, 21 people were rescued safely, and the bodies of all the deceased have been recovered. The injured have been admitted to hospitals for treatment. The cause of the boat's capsizing is not yet known; the local administration has initiated an investigation into the matter.

The number of tourists traveling from India to Vietnam is rising rapidly. In 2023, approximately 392,000 Indian tourists visited Vietnam—three times the figure recorded in 2019. By 2024, this number had reached around 500,000, making India Vietnam's eighth-largest tourism market. Affordable flights, e-visa facilities, beautiful beaches, and cultural similarities attract Indians to the country.

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest island, renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, azure waters, and dense forests. It is famous for its world-class fish sauce and seafood. Tourists here enjoy attractions such as the VinWonders theme park, the world's longest sea-crossing cable car, water sports, the national park, and Vinpearl Safari. Its natural beauty, pearl production, and exciting activities make it the 'Island of Dreams,' drawing millions of tourists annually.

Relations between India and Vietnam are rooted in ancient cultural and historical ties dating back to the 2nd century. In modern times, diplomatic relations were established in 1972. Currently, the relationship stands at the level of an 'Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership' (ECSP), which was updated in 2026. Key areas of cooperation include defense, trade, investment, energy, digital payments, and security in the Indo-Pacific region. India views Vietnam as a crucial partner under its 'Look East Policy.' Both nations are strengthening ties through high-level visits, joint military exercises, and economic partnerships, all of which are proving beneficial for their respective populations.