(VOVWORLD) - The 2024 Program on Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel (PP&PA-24) opened in the central province of Quang Ngai on Tuesday.
 Vo Phien, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Quang Ngai province, speaks at the event |
The programs co-hosted by Vietnam and various international partners, aim to enhance disaster response capabilities and promote international cooperation in disaster response.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Susan Burns, US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, highlighted the enduring friendship between the United States and Vietnam, which has been strengthened through cooperation in disaster response, healthcare, and education.
Emphasizing that Vietnam is always an important partner in the Pacific Partnership program, US Consul General Susan Burns stated that this marks the first time that the US Navy’s Pacific Partnership and the US Air Force's Pacific Angel have collaborated to support a strong, prosperous, resilient, and independent Vietnam.
Vo Phien, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Quang Ngai province, said: “Following the success of the Pacific Angel Program in 2015, we are very happy with the launch of the Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel Program in Quang Ngai. The program will contribute to fostering mutual understanding, solidarity, and international cooperation for peace and sustainable development.”
Colonel Daniel Keeler, Commander of the Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel Program, added that medical experts from different countries will conduct exchanges and training sessions at various hospitals and medical centers in Quang Ngai. Additionally, US and Vietnamese experts will engage in discussions on forest fire prevention, coastal erosion, and natural disaster management.
The event is part of a series of activities in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the US- Vietnam diplomatic relations (July 12, 1995 - 2025), and comes a year after the US and Vietnam elevated their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership level.
PP&PA-24, which will last to August 30, includes 60 activities in the fields of health, construction, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief. Soldiers of the US Navy and Air Force are expected to help renovate schools and health clinics, provide humanitarian support and disaster response training, exchange medical experiences, and participate in air performances and community exchange activities across Quang Ngai.