Hanoi - Vietnam's strengthening of ties with the United States, particularly in defence cooperation, was the focus of discussions between Sen. Lieut. Gen Nguyen Van Nghia, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People's Army, and General Charles Flynn, Commanding General of the US Army Pacific (USARPAC). The talks took place in Hanoi on November 13, against the backdrop of the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam-US comprehensive partnership, which was recently elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership during US President Joe Biden's state visit to Vietnam in September.
According to Vietnam News Agency, Nghia, in his conversation with Flynn, emphasized Vietnam's view of the US as a crucial partner in its foreign policy. He highlighted the significance of the ongoing celebrations of the Vietnam-US comprehensive partnership, noting that Vietnam aims to enhance relations with the US based on mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, and political institutions. This approach, he asserted, would benefit both nations and contribute to peace, stability, cooperation, and development globally.
The two countries have achieved positive results in their defence cooperation over the past years, particularly in addressing war legacies, participating in United Nations peacekeeping operations, personnel training, military healthcare, and cooperation between armed services, according to Nghia. He lauded USARPAC's role in facilitating these bilateral cooperation activities. Looking ahead, Nghia suggested that both sides continue to effectively implement existing agreements and documents, prioritizing cooperation in UN peacekeeping, training cooperation, and medical healthcare collaboration.
Nghia proposed that the US prioritize cooperation in addressing war consequences, including increasing support for dioxin detoxification at Bien Hoa airport, reviewing the results of dioxin detoxification at A Sho airport in A Luoi district of Thua Thien Hue province, and treating dioxin-contaminated soil at Phu Cat airport in Binh Dinh province. He reaffirmed Vietnam's commitment to facilitating the effective search for US servicemen missing in action. On this occasion, Nghia also extended an invitation to Flynn and USARPAC representatives to attend the second Vietnam International Defence Expo slated for late 2024.
Flynn, in response, underscored the significance of Vietnam-US defence ties, particularly the cooperation with USARPAC. He affirmed his commitment to enhancing the collaboration and achieving common objectives. Flynn stated his intention to work closely with the US Embassy and the Office of the Defence Attaché to further strengthen bilateral ties. He expressed a desire for expanded cooperation between the Vietnamese and US armies in various areas, including delegation exchanges, personnel training, and participation in events hosted by both sides.