US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper (fourth from left) at the ribbon cutting ceremony to inaugurate new classrooms at Hoa Dinh Tay elementary school, August 18, 2023. (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the event, US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper said PP23 is clear evidence of the members’ commitment to security cooperation and people-to-people diplomacy, demonstrating the shared interests of the involved parties in regional stability and security through activities aimed at enhancing disaster response capabilities and providing humanitarian support when necessary. 

This is prominently manifested as engineers, doctors and experts work closely with the Vietnamese partners to contribute to improving the local lives in Phu Yen, according to the Ambassador.

Over the past 18 years, the program has translated leaders' commitments into numerous specific activities, striving for a safer and more secure future for the people, he said.

Held from August 9-18, PP23 featured school construction, medical training workshops, free surgeries for local residents, and musical exchanges, among others.