Relations between India and Indo-China

The contacts between India and the States of Indochina, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, date back to the beginning of Christian era. During this period Indian merchants, adventurers, princes and priests visited Indochina region. They spread of Indian language and literature, religion and philosophy, art and architecture, customs and manners, the deep impact of which is visible even today. The contacts continued even during the period of colonialism between Indian and Vietnamese nationalists. After getting independence, India watched with attention the developments in the states of Indochina during the post-second world war period. India actively participated for the salvation of Indochina problem during Geneva conference and it was chosen as chairman of international commission for supervision and control (ICSC). Though India tried to create ‘an area of peace’ in Indochina, it could not succeed in its efforts because of cold war environment. India welcomed the establishment of communist regimes in the countries of Indochina. India continued to maintain good relations with Indochina countries especially with Vietnam.