Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (left) met with US Vice President Mike Pence on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Singapore on November 14. (Photo: VNA)

Mr. Phuc said Vietnam considers the US one of its leading important partners and wants to lift the bilateral comprehensive partnership to a new height on the basis of mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and political institutions.

He applauded US leaders’ commitments to cooperation in dealing with war consequences in Vietnam, including dioxin detoxification at Bien Hoa airport. Vietnam will continue to consistently implement the renewal and international integration process, improve its business environment, raise its intellectual property protection capacity, ensure cyber security and safety, and abide by international financial and monetary standards. He proposed the two countries further facilitate their bilateral trade and investment ties, and satisfactorily address concerns of each side, for the benefits of their people.  

The Prime Minister spoke highly of cooperation between Vietnam and the US in regional and international issues. He commended the US’s affirmation to back ASEAN’s central role and cooperation initiatives contributing to regional peace and stability, and to respect independence and sovereignty of other nations.

Vice President Pence stressed that the US supports a strong, independent and prosperous Vietnam, and stands ready to cooperate with the country in matters of shared concern.