The Party chief congratulated Ambassador Knapper on the successful completion of his tenure and highly valued his important contributions to the positive development of the Vietnam–US comprehensive strategic partnership.

He welcomed the many notable achievements the two countries have recorded across a wide range of fields, including politics and diplomacy, economy and trade, defence and security, post-war legacy issues, as well as science and technology.

Vietnam stands ready to further promote deeper and broader cooperation with the United States, including the signing of a reciprocal, fair and balanced trade agreement, the General Secretary said.

He reaffirmed that Vietnam consistently pursues an independent and self-reliant foreign policy of cooperation and development, diversification and multilateralisation of external relations, along with its defence policy of “four no’s”. Vietnam always attaches importance to relations with the United States and wishes to continue close cooperation to further deepen bilateral ties on the basis of mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and political institutions, thereby contributing positively to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.

On this occasion, General Secretary To Lam shared with Ambassador Knapper several of Vietnam’s major achievements since the 13th National Party Congress, particularly the strong progress that has earned international recognition, such as policies on innovation and the development of science and technology. The upcoming 14th National Party Congress, he noted, will mark a new stage of development aimed at peace, independence, democracy and national prosperity.

Regarding regional and international issues, the Party leader stressed the need to uphold the United Nations Charter and international law, and to resolve disputes through dialogue and other peaceful means.

On regional matters, he called on the United States to continue supporting the maintenance of peace, stability, security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Activities by all parties in the East Sea should contribute to this shared objective, he said.

General Secretary To Lam expressed his confidence that, regardless of his future position, Ambassador Marc Knapper would continue to support the promotion of Vietnam–US relations and help the two countries achieve further positive outcomes in the time ahead.

For his part, Ambassador Knapper sincerely thanked the leaders of the Party, the State and the people of Vietnam for their attention and support, which enabled him to fulfil his duties successfully.

He congratulated Vietnam on its remarkable achievements, noting in particular the country’s sustained economic growth, improving living standards and rising international stature and prestige.

Ambassador Knapper said he was proud to have taken part in major milestones in bilateral relations, especially the upgrade of Vietnam–US ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in September 2023, as well as key activities marking the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

He affirmed that, in whatever role he may hold in the future, he will continue to make every effort to nurture the relationship between the two countries, contributing meaningfully to peace, stability, cooperation and prosperity in the region and the world.

Tran Thuong