Vietnam, US Discuss War Legacy Efforts, Defense Cooperation

Top leader To Lam stated that Vietnam considers the US one of its most strategically important partners and wishes for the stable and substantive development of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, contributing positively to peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond. On September 21 (US time), General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President To Lam met with John Noh, US Assistant Secretary of War for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, in New York. This meeting was part of his visit to the US to attend the High-Level General Debate of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly and undertake bilateral engagements. President To Lam also held discussions with leaders from three major US groups – Warburg Pincus, Boeing, and Apple – focusing on investment, aviation, and technology cooperation. He also met with Thomas R. Hardy, Acting Director of the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), to exchange views on investment opportunities. These meetings underscore Vietnam's commitment to deepening its multifaceted relationship with the US. Vietnam aims to expand its role on the international stage while upholding its foreign policy of independence and self-reliance. Strengthening ties with the US aligns with Vietnam's foreign policy objectives of contributing to regional and global security and development. Concurrently, Vietnam continues its participation in UN peacekeeping operations. On September 22, a departure ceremony was held at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi for the Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation 8 and Engineering Unit Rotation 5, bound for UN peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Abyei. This signifies Vietnam's readiness to fulfill its responsibilities within the international community. During his US trip, President To Lam also engaged with Vietnamese experts and intellectuals in the US, as well as leaders of the Communist Party USA and American friends, fostering broad exchanges. These activities highlight Vietnam's efforts in building its international network and engaging in dialogue with diverse stakeholders. Vietnam officially joined the United Nations on September 20, 1977, and has since been actively involved in global efforts for peace, security, and development for nearly half a century. Vietnam's peacekeeping forces have helped project an image of a peace-loving and responsible nation, ready to make greater contributions to the UN’s common endeavors. Source: VietnamPlus English