The agreement was signed by both countries in Moscow in 1998 to complete legal mechanisms for ongoing Russia-Vietnam relations. It stipulates the criteria for Russia and Vietnam when they assist each other legally and settle issues related to laws as well providing legal aid for both countries’ citizens, including individual stipulations, labour rights, and immunities.

In addition, the agreement sets out the standards for criminal investigations, the return of or refusal to return criminals between both countries.

The agreement was ratified by the State Duma (lower house) and the Federal Council of Russia (upper house) on May 14 and 26, respectively.