State President hails Vietnam-US defence cooperation
VOV.VN - The Vietnam-US defence cooperation over the years has brought about practical results, contributing to strengthening the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.
State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc made the statement while receiving visiting US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin in Hanoi on July 29.
He hailed the outcome of the earlier talks between Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang and Secretary Lloyd Austin, noting Vietnam considers the US a leading partner in its foreign policy, and aspires to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the fields of mutual interest.
Considering defence cooperation as a pillar in the Vietnam – US cooperation, Phuc expressed his hope Vietnam will continue to receive stronger US assistance in addressing war aftermath, especially in landmine clearance, dioxin remediation, and humanitarian relief, as well as supporting Vietnam in joining UN peacekeeping missions.
In his capacity as Chairman of the National Defense and Security Council, the President said that he would create all favourable conditions for the Vietnamese Defence Ministry and the US Department of Defence to increase cooperation in the fields of their strength.
Vietnam wants the US to further deepen its relationship with ASEAN for peace and prosperity in the region and the rest of the world, he said.
Phuc thanked the US Government for donating medical supplies, including five million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, to Vietnam, and said they would help halt the spread of the virus in the country.
For his part, Secretary Austin said the US will continue to cooperate with Vietnam in developing a COVID-19 vaccine, and providing equipment to Vietnam’s ongoing COVID-19 fight.
The US will further boost cooperation with Vietnam in overcoming the consequences of the past war, thereby consolidating trust between the two countries, he assured his host.
He thanked Vietnam for its close cooperation in the search for the remains of US servicemen missing in action during the war, and said the US will continue to support Vietnam in dealing with the consequences of Agent Orange/dioxin, especially the ongoing dioxin remediation project at Bien Hoa Airport.
Austin also affirmed that the US will continue to promote cooperation with ASEAN in maintaining peace and security in the region.
On this occasion, State President Phuc conveyed his greetings and wishes to US President Joe Biden, and said Vietnam is looking forward to welcoming President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to Vietnam in the near future.
