PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosted a reception for U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry on January 13 in Ha Noi.

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (centre) and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (3rd from L), Ha Noi, January 13, 2017 

“The relations between Viet Nam and the U.S. have flourished in a practical and positive manner at bilateral, regional, and international level in favour of respective benefits for the sake of regional peace, stability, cooperation, and development,” PM Phuc said.

The PM appreciated the effort of the U.S. Secretary for the bilateral relations.

He informed that during his recent phone call with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, the two sides discussed ways to spur the bilateral relations. On the basis of the foundation, Viet Nam would continue to cooperate with the new American administration to boost the relations between Viet Nam and the U.S. in a long-lasting, practical, and effective manner.

He noticed the importance of maintaining regular contacts and exchanges of delegation at all levels; promoting cooperation in mending post war consequences and in other areas.

The Government chief hoped that the U.S. would continue to cooperate with Viet Nam to conduct ongoing projects to decontaminate dioxin in Da Nang and Bien Hoa airports and responding to climate change in the Mekong Delta Region.  

PM Phuc reiterated the invitation to visit Viet Nam to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on the occasion of APEC 2017 and highlighted the strategic economic significance of the TPP Agreement for member states, including the U.S.. He also hoped that the U.S. would commit to spurring regional economic and commercial development.

Finally, the host leader hoped to continue to receive valuable support from the guest leader for the better ties between the two countries.  

In reply, Mr. John Kerry said that he was pleasant to return to Viet Nam. “The two sides have spared no effort to overcome the history and build a better future,” he said.

The Secretary of State reaffirmed U.S. commitments to respect for Viet Nam’s political institution, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The U.S. has long-term interests in the Asia-Pacific Region, said the guest. He was convinced that the new administration would continue to pursue the policy on strengthening relations with the region.

Mr. John Kerry also underscored that he would always be a friend of the country and people of Viet Nam.

The U.S. said the Secretary of State stands ready to back Viet Nam to cope with climate change and natural disasters.

According to the guest leader, Fulbright University Viet Nam represents a typical example for the fine relations between Viet Nam and the U.S.. Once coming into operation, the university would contribute to developing high-quality human force and business start-up in the Southeast Asian nation.

VGP