Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Ha Kim Ngoc (right) and US Congressman Ted Yoho (Photo: VNA)

Both sides praised developments of the Vietnam-US Comprehensive Partnership in politics, diplomacy, economy, trade, security, defense, war recovery, and people-to-people exchanges. They anticipated more joint activities and new achievements to celebrate the 25th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year.

The two sides exchanged frank views on democracy and human rights, agreeing that all differences can be resolved through constructive dialogue based on mutual understanding and respect. Mr. Yoho expressed concern over recent developments in the East Sea, where China has sent survey vessels and armed escort ships into Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone, violating Vietnam’s sovereignty.

He condemned China’s actions, which have violated international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, militarized artificial islands illegally built on the East Sea, eroded trust, increased tensions, threatened freedom of navigation and aviation, and undermined peace and stability in the region.