The Defense Department’s online newspaper said the visit was a chance for both sides to assess the progress in defence cooperation made since the United States and Vietnam normalized diplomatic relations in 1995.

“The relationship between the two nations is based on mutual trust and understanding,” it cited Panetta as saying, “We have a complicated relationship but we're not bound by that history.”

Panetta said he hopes to witness promotion in high-level dialogues and further cooperation in maritime security, search and rescue operations, peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

He expressed his sincere thanks for Vietnam’s long-standing efforts to help the US search for those missing in action during the Vietnam War.

“In particular I want to thank Vietnamese Defence Minister Phung Quang Thanh for his offer to open up three new areas for remains recovery,” he said.

In an interview with Foxnews, Secretary Panetta emphasized the importance of his visit and affirmed that the US wants to improve its relations with Vietnam.