Deputy Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Stilwell (Photo: Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Mr. Son hailed practical developments in the two countries’ relations, particularly in trade and economic cooperation. He suggested both countries enhancing cooperation in other sectors such as science, technology, education, security, and dense and settling the war consequences.

Mr. Stilwell said that the US respects the comprehensive partnership with Vietnam and supports a strong, independent, and prosperous Vietnam. He agreed that priorities should be given to economic, trade, and investment cooperation which will be the momentum for the comprehensive partnership. He said the US will help Vietnam to resolve the consequences of war, including a project to treat dioxin pollution at Bien Hoa airport.

Mr. Stilwell repeated the US policy of maintaining security, safety, freedom of navigation and aviation, and unimpeded trade in the East Sea. The US supports the settlement of disputes in the East Sea by peaceful means in line with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The US wants to boost cooperation with Vietnam in the Lower Mekong Initiative, at regional forums, and particularly during Vietnam’s 2020 ASEAN Chairmanship and 2020-2021 UN Security Council non-permanent membership term.