(VOVworld) - Developing relations with major and important partners is a priority in implementing Vietnam’s foreign policy, stated Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong while meeting with representatives of the Vietnamese community in the US in New York on July 9 (local time). Briefing the participants of the outcomes of his official US visit, he said that the two sides discussed specific measures to further all-around bilateral cooperation and adopted a joint vision statement. Both sides candidly exchanged views on several issues including religion and human rights, he added. The Party leader hailed the significant contributions by the overseas Vietnamese community to their homeland’s socio-economic development, renewal process and the improvement of its position and role in the international arena. He said: "Whenever you go and whatever you’re doing, remember that you’re Vietnamese. Although the Vietnamese people still have some shortcomings, they have many noble characteristics including patriotism and unity. I hope that you will never forget your origins in Vietnam. I call on all of you to continue to contribute to Vietnam’s development while promoting images of Vietnam’s culture and traditions to the outside world." Representatives of the overseas Vietnamese community said they were delighted at Vietnam’s achievements in socio-economic development and external relations. They hoped to contribute more to national development and pledged to serve as a bridge to connect Vietnam with other countries and partners.