(VOVworld) - Relations between the US and Vietnam have developed well since the two countries normalized diplomatic ties 19 years ago, Senators John McCain and Sheldon Whitehouse told Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong in Hanoi on Friday.

They shared Vietnam’s views on regional and international issues, and said they expressed deep concern about freedom of navigation and recent tensions in the East Sea, noting it is necessary for all countries to fully conform to international law. They affirmed that the US Congress and government want to boost cooperation in various areas with Vietnam in a mutually equal and respectful manner, as well as through channels, including the Communist Party of Vietnam. For his part, Party leader Trong noted with satisfaction the positive development of all-round cooperation between Vietnam and the US, especially after the two countries established the comprehensive partnership last year. He said the Party and State of Vietnam consider the US a leading partner and they support promoting bilateral cooperation in all levels and areas in the interest of the two peoples, and for peace stability and development in the region and the world at large. He said he hopes both Vietnam and the US will work closely together to realise their comprehensive partnership and successfully organise activities to mark 20 years of diplomacy in 2015.