NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan hosts a reception for US Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink in Hanoi  on January 9, 2018.

Madam Ngan received new US Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink in Hanoi on Tuesday. She said Vietnam will push ahead with cooperation with the US in the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism and cross-border crime combat, and handling of food, energy and water security issues.

Ngan called on the US to remove its catfish inspection program, continue to help improve the Vietnamese marine police’s capacity, and strengthen cooperation in search and rescue, disaster relief, and the settlement of post-war legacy.

Welcoming the positive attitude of the US Congress and Government towards the East Sea issue, Ngan said Vietnam hopes the international community, including the US, will continue their consistent messages and policies to protect peace, stability, security and safety of navigation and aviation in the region. Ambassador Kritenbrink said the US considers Vietnam one of its most important partners. He added that during his upcoming visit to Vietnam, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis will reiterate the US’s support for the settlement of East Sea disputes by peaceful means and its commitments to helping improve Vietnam’s marine capacity and detoxify Bien Hoa airport.

At a reception for Canadian Ambassador Ping Kitnikone the asme day, Chairwoman Ngan called for further exchanges of visits to strengthen bilateral ties.

Ambassador Kitnikone said Canada is willing to cooperate with Vietnam in any family, woman, and child issues. She voiced her support for Vietnam’s viewpoint on navigation freedom and security with respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.