The event, themed "Nurturing Friendship–Building the Future," was organized by the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations, the Vietnamese Embassy in the US and Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the UN.
Speaking at the event, General Secretary and President Lam noted that although the war ended over half a century ago, there remain families awaiting news of their loved ones, victims of Agent Orange in need of care, and areas still contaminated by landmines and dioxin.
Vietnam is currently implementing a "500-day-and-night campaign" to search for, repatriate, and identify the remains of fallen soldiers, he added. The country continues to dedicate resources to this effort and deeply appreciates the support provided by the US side.
The top leader expressed hope for continued assistance in connecting information, sharing records, and exchanging expertise on database utilization to achieve greater success in locating and identifying those who made the ultimate sacrifice. For its part, Vietnam remains committed to close cooperation and facilitating the search for US service members missing in action.
General Secretary and President Lam said he hopes to continue working alongside US friends to care for those still suffering the consequences of the war, make the land safer, and help more families reunite with their loved ones.
On this occasion, the General Secretary and President presented the Friendship Order to several American friends. General Phan Van Giang, who is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, received war-related memorabilia presented by representatives from Texas Tech University.
