In a recent interview granted to the media on the 15^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the US and Vietnam, Mr Webb said that during the past ten years, bilateral relations have improved significantly through regular dialogues and expanded cooperation in al fields. The balance in the US’s external policy towards Vietnam compared to other countries is of great significance for consolidating bilateral relations to ensure stability in Southeast Asia and in the East Sea.

Vietnam plays an important role in ASEAN as well as in Southeast Asia and the country has made drastic changes in recent years through its efforts to facilitate overseas investments, use of the Internet, business relations and travelling domestically and abroad, said the US senator.

Mr Webb praised Vietnam’s open policies for religious affairs, particularly its relations with the Vatican. Currently, Vietnam and the US are trying their best to resolve differences to strengthen bilateral relations for mutual benefit.

Senator Webb said that he has long admired the Vietnamese people and their culture and has made every effort to promote bilateral relations and mutual understanding between Vietnamese people in Vietnam and those living the US, now numbering around two millions.