(VOVworld) - Vietnam wants to work closely with the US to develop bilateral ties in a deep, practical and effective manner in all realms, primarily in politics, diplomacy, economics, investment, trade, education-training, and science-technology.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the statement while receiving Senators John McCain and Sheldon Whitehouse in Hanoi on Saturday. He spoke highly of effective cooperation in the Vietnam-US comprehensive partnership as well as both sides’ effort in boosting bilateral relations in recent times. He proposed that the US support Vietnam in Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement negotiations, taking into account the country’s development levels. He said successful negotiations and the signing of the trade pact will significantly benefit the two countries. The PM expressed Vietnam’s desire to increase cooperation with the US in national defense and security, and therefore, he proposed the US support Vietnam in improving its capacity to defend national sovereignty. He also asked for US assistance in overcoming the consequences of the past war, especially addressing unexploded ordnance and dioxin issues. Stressing the importance of internet security, the PM said Vietnam is ready to cooperate with the US in this field. Regarding human rights issues, Dung said Vietnam is making every effort to better guarantee fundamental human rights, as human rights are the legitimate goal and requirement of Vietnamese people. He told his guests that the human rights situation in Vietnam has improved significantly in recent years and Vietnam is willing to conduct frank dialogue on human rights with the US. Senators McCain and Whitehouse said they would propose the US Congress to lift the ban on lethal weapons sales to Vietnam. The two senators also said that the US wants to increase cooperation with Vietnam in navigation security, internet security, and the protection of the environment and water resources.