Friday, 01/31/2020, 14:03

VOV.VN - Both Vietnam and the US share strategic interests in terms of regional issues regarding the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea), the Mekong region, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), in addition to co-ordination at ASEAN, APEC, UN, and WTO forums.

 

Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Ha Kim Ngoc speaks at the ceremony

Future prospects for the relationship appear to be bright with the Vietnamese Embassy in the US kicking off the 25th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries on January 30. First starting in 1995, relations between both nations were celebrated at a ceremony co-chaired by Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Ha Kim Ngoc along with US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Stilwell.

 

During his opening address, Ambassador Ngoc emphasized that despite 25 years being only a short time in terms of bilateral relations, the strides that the two countries have achieved serves as an impressive feat. By moving from former enemies to friends, both nations have been comprehensive partners since 2013 and enjoyed strong development across nine different areas of co-operation.

Leaders from each country frequently exchange visits and meetings whilst being respectful and committed to each other's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political institutions. Indeed, this can be seen by both political parties in the US Congress supporting the promotion of relations with Vietnam. With the framework for this policy dialogue continuing to expand, greater levels of trust are being built between the two countries whilst there have been great strides made in terms of economic, trade, and investment co-operation, creating a driving force for stronger development in general.

The Vietnamese diplomat shared reports of impressive progress made in defence and security co-operation over the past 25 years, especially with regards to co-operation in dealing with the consequences of war and improving the capacity of law enforcement at sea.

 

US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Stilwell gives a speech at the event

 

This close relationship in defence has also seen the two countries work together during UN peacekeeping operations, increasing co-operation in order to deal with regional and international security risks in an effective manner. Co-operation in education, culture, science, technology, and people-to-people exchanges have also expanded, contributing to deepening mutual understanding.

Moreover, it is noteworthy that at a central level, the party, parliamentary, and governmental relationship between various Vietnamese localities and states in the US are enjoying steady growth.

Elsewhere at a multilateral level, both nations share strategic interests and are keen to maintain peace, security, stability, co-operation, and rule-based order throughout Asia-, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific region.

Ambassador Ngoc attributed the achievements of both sides to a clear vision and wise decisions made by leaders of the two nations, and the contributions put in by generations of government officials, members of parliament, scholars, businesses, parts of the media, and people who believe in peace and prosperity.

Assistant Secretary of State Stilwell described it as an honour to co-chair the ceremony, saying that both sides have worked hard to overcome difficult times following periods of conflict but have now become reliable partners with a relationship based on mutual respect. The partnership and friendship between the two countries have been built through joint efforts, he noted.

Both Ngoc and Stilwell shared their confidence and optimism regarding the prospects of stronger mutual relations over the course of the coming decades. With high levels of political determination, a long-term vision, and combined efforts, the joint partnership will continue to enjoy strong growth whilst reaching new heights.

 

 

During the ceremony the Embassy of Vietnam and the US Department of State introduced a logo marking the 25th anniversary of bilateral relations with a dove’s wings bearing the national flags of both Vietnam and the US. The logo was designed by artist Tran Hoai Duc and was selected following a competition held by the US Embassy in Hanoi and the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations.

Guests at the ceremony watched a video clip featuring warm greetings sent from Hanoi by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son. Deputy Minister Son stated his wish for a bright future for bilateral relations for benefits of the people of both countries, and for peace, stability, co-operation, and development throughout Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Pacific region, and the world as a whole.

VOV