Defence Minister hails outgoing US Ambassador's contributions to bilateral ties

During a reception on April 16 for the US diplomat who came to bid farewell before ending his term in Vietnam, the Defence Minister congratulated the diplomat on his new post as Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, expressing his hope that he will continue to boost  ties between the two countries and armies, especially in overcoming the consequences of war.

Vietnam regards the US as among its important partners and aspires to reinforce the comprehensive partnership on the foundation of respect for each other’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political institutions, Giang told his guest. He also extended his best regards to US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. 

In response, Daniel pledged his best effort in any position to enhance relations between both nations and armies, particularly in overcoming the consequences of war.

The pair applauded cooperation outcomes over the years in bilateral, regional, and international aspects, as well as the practical implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding on Advancing Bilateral Defence Cooperation, the US-Vietnam Joint Vision Statement on Defence Relations, and most notably the cooperation results in dealing with the consequences of war. 

They also highly valued the success of a project to clean up dioxin contamination at Da Nang International Airport and a similar ongoing project at Bien Hoa Airport in Dong Nai province, efforts to search for soldiers Missing in Action (MIA), and overcoming the consequences of bombs and mines, which have helped deepen the friendship and added fresh impetus to cooperative efforts.

Cooperation in overcoming the consequences of war will continue to be a priority for Vietnam in the time ahead. Both sides consented to go ahead with joint efforts under signed agreements to greatly benefit both countries’ people.