On behalf of the Party, Government, and people of Vietnam, Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung sent a heartfelt letter of condolence to the entire Weiss family.

Peter Weiss, born in 1925, and Cora Weiss, born in 1934, were unwavering American allies of Vietnam for many decades. Their voices played a crucial role in the anti-Vietnam War movement and later in the process of normalizing bilateral relations between the two nations.

During the war, the couple offered both sponsorship and staunch support for humanitarian and anti-war efforts. Their advocacy helped shape progressive public opinion in the United States in support of Vietnam.

Cora Weiss was among the most prominent leaders of the American anti-war movement. She tirelessly fought for an end to the bombing campaign, the withdrawal of troops, and the recognition of the Vietnamese people’s right to self-determination.

In September 2024, during a visit to the U.S., General Secretary and President To Lam awarded the Friendship Order to several individuals, including Cora Weiss, for their significant contributions to strengthening ties between the peoples of both countries.

After the war, the Weiss couple remained actively involved in supporting the Vietnam–U.S. Reconciliation and Development Foundation. They continued to voice strong calls urging the U.S. government to lift its embargo against Vietnam.

Peter Weiss was one of the first international guests to visit Hanoi while Vietnam was still under sanctions. Upon returning, he presented to a TNI conference on the situation in Vietnam, appealing for global support for Vietnam’s reconstruction and urging the U.S. to end its economic blockade.

Their sustained efforts laid the humanitarian groundwork and helped cultivate a positive international climate that enabled Vietnam–U.S. reconciliation and normalization - leaving behind a lasting legacy of empathy, solidarity, and shared belief in the value of peace.

The Weiss couple also maintained a close and heartfelt connection with Vietnam’s diplomatic service. They frequently participated in, and actively supported, Vietnam's external affairs events in the United States.

Even in their 90s, Cora and Peter Weiss attended a meeting between General Secretary and President To Lam and American friends on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in September 2024.

During that occasion, Cora Weiss was honored to receive the Friendship Order from General Secretary and President To Lam.

Tran Thuong