On January 21, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son extended an official invitation to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to visit Vietnam in 2025, a year marking the 30th anniversary of Vietnam-U.S. diplomatic relations.

In his congratulatory letter to Secretary Rubio, who was recently confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Minister Bui Thanh Son reaffirmed Vietnam’s recognition of the United States as one of its top strategic partners.

He expressed confidence that the strong foundation built over three decades would continue to support practical and effective cooperation between the two nations, advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Both countries aim to enhance collaboration for the benefit of their people while contributing to peace, stability, and development in the region and globally.

Marco Rubio: The first Latino U.S. Secretary of State

On January 20, the U.S. Senate confirmed Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, making him the first Latino to lead the U.S. Department of State. Rubio, born to Cuban immigrants in Miami, holds a political science degree from the University of Florida and has served as a U.S. Senator representing Florida since 2011.

Rubio’s confirmation highlights his pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy under the new administration.

In addition to Minister Bui Thanh Son’s invitation, Vietnam’s top leaders, including General Secretary To Lam, President Luong Cuong, and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, also congratulated Donald Trump on his inauguration as the 47th U.S. President.

The Vietnamese leaders emphasized their commitment to furthering bilateral relations based on mutual respect for independence, sovereignty, and political systems.

They expressed optimism about the future of the Vietnam-U.S. partnership under President Trump’s leadership, especially as the two nations commemorate 30 years of diplomatic ties and two years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Tran Thuong