Mr. Vuong, who is a permanent member of the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat, underscored the need to exchange high-level delegations and to step up cooperation in dealing with the consequences of the war, including decontaminating Bien Hoa airport and assisting Agent Orange/dioxin victims.

He called for the US to increase cooperation within the framework of the Lower Mekong Initiative and continue assisting Vietnam in UN peacekeeping activities.

Esper said the US attaches importance to and hopes to deepen relations with Vietnam in all fields, with defense being an important component.

He said the US supports settling disputes in the East Sea by peaceful measures, on the basis of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, respect for diplomatic and legal procedures, and ensuring freedom and safety of navigation and aviation in the region.