As 2024 draws to a close, US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper shared a heartfelt message in Vietnamese, reflecting on the achievements in Vietnam-US relations and the promising future of their partnership.

Strengthening a comprehensive strategic partnership

In a three-minute video released by the US Embassy, Ambassador Knapper praised the progress in bilateral relations, underscoring milestones achieved and future opportunities for collaboration.

“When 2024 comes to an end, I want to take a moment to reflect on a year of profound significance for the US-Vietnam relationship,” the Ambassador began.

He highlighted the elevation of the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the joint commitment to building a shared future of prosperity and security.

One key achievement noted was the dramatic fourfold growth in bilateral trade over the past decade, rising from $30 billion to over $120 billion.

Ambassador Knapper also recalled the largest US Agricultural Delegation visit to Vietnam in September and the transfer of five T-6C training aircraft to Vietnam. Additionally, the US allocated $12.5 million to enhance maritime security in Vietnam.

“These opportunities for cooperation are expanding across both sides of the Pacific,” he said.

Focus on sustainability and education

The Ambassador expressed pride in supporting Vietnam’s green transition, environmental conservation in the Mekong Delta, and eco-friendly agricultural initiatives.

He emphasized the US’s ongoing commitment to sustainable environmental practices and climate resilience efforts in Vietnam.

In 2024, the US expanded its English language training programs with a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), bolstered higher education cooperation, and launched the ITSI-CHIPS Workforce Accelerator Program to help Vietnam cultivate a globally competitive workforce in the semiconductor industry.

Healing the past, building the future

Ambassador Knapper shared memories of a visit to Da Nang, where Vietnam and the US have cooperated to address war legacies and heal wounds from the past.

He announced an additional $65 million in US funding to support the cleanup of dioxin contamination at Bien Hoa Airbase and a $26 million grant to address areas affected by unexploded ordnance.

“In the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi, we stood with Vietnam as partners and friends, providing $1 million in emergency relief to directly impacted families,” he recalled.

Looking ahead to 30 years of relations

As the two nations prepare to mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025, Ambassador Knapper expressed confidence in the continued growth of their partnership.

“Together, we will seize new opportunities, address global challenges, and build a prosperous, stable, and secure future for all,” he said, concluding with a warm “Thank you and Happy New Year.”

Tran Thuong