Ambassador Knapper opened the video with the Vietnamese greeting, “Xin chào,” emphasizing that 2025 marks a significant milestone in the memorable journey of Vietnam and the US since establishing diplomatic ties in 1995.

The ambassador recalled a historic moment: on July 11, 1995, President Bill Clinton announced the normalization of relations between the two countries. Weeks later, embassies were opened in Hanoi and Washington, D.C., laying the foundation for a relationship that has grown increasingly dynamic and deepened year by year.

“Through dialogue and strengthened relations, we’ve built mutual trust and respect by addressing post-war issues, advancing trade and investment, enhancing healthcare cooperation, and expanding educational exchange programs to bring our people closer,” said Ambassador Knapper.

On January 13, 2025, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse welcomed Ambassador Marc Knapper at a New Year reception. The event symbolized the growing friendship between the two nations, fostering connections as they address global challenges such as climate change and health security, while advancing innovation in technology and education.

Consul General Susan Burns remarked, “From war to friendship, and now a comprehensive strategic partnership, Vietnam has become one of the US's leading trade partners in Southeast Asia, the largest source of international students in ASEAN, and an essential partner in ensuring regional security, stability, and prosperity.”

Addressing Vietnam’s younger generation, Burns expressed confidence that they would serve as a solid bridge between the two nations.

“I believe that through close collaboration, our future will be brighter than ever. This is why the US continues to invest in the Vietnam - US partnership by expanding educational programs and exchanges, including Fulbright Scholarships in science and technology,” she added.

Ambassador Knapper concluded the message by saying, “Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s look forward to another 30 years of friendship, cooperation, and shared success.”

The transformation of Vietnam - US relations has been remarkable. Today, the partnership encompasses nearly every sector. Over the past decade, bilateral trade has quadrupled, surging from $30 billion to more than $120 billion. The US remains Vietnam’s largest export market, while Vietnam has become the US's eighth-largest trading partner.

Vietnam is continuing efforts to have the US recognize its market economy status.

In the Joint Statement upgrading to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in September 2023, both nations expressed support for the rapid development of Vietnam’s semiconductor ecosystem. Collaborative efforts will be made to enhance Vietnam's position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Security and defense cooperation remain active, with a focus on addressing war legacies and improving maritime capabilities.

Educational collaboration has also achieved significant progress as both sides promote cooperation in education, training, and technology transfer.

Tran Thuong