Meeting Ambassador Pham Quang Vinh in Washington on January 22, Senator John McCain and Congressman Eliot Engel expressed their appreciation for Viet Nam’s contributions to the Asia-Pacific region.

Senator John McCain

McCain said Viet Nam has played a significant role in the region and committed to improving bilateral relations with the US, including dealing with the post-war aftermath and campaigning for the full lift of a ban on the sale of lethal weapons.

He plans to visit Viet Nam this year, in honour of the 20^th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Congratulating McCain on his appointment to Chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, the ambassador spoke of common priorities across economy, trade, investment, science and technology, education, national defence and security.

He also asked for early completion of the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations and closer cooperation at the ASEAN-US forums, the East Asia Summit, the ASEAN Regional Forum and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

Discussing the Bien Dong (East Sea) disputes, both sides underscored the need to address them through peaceful means to ensure peace, stability, and maritime freedom in the region.

In his first-ever meeting with Congressman Eliot Engel, a senior Democrat of the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs, Vinh discussed further opportunities to foster the Vietnam – US comprehensive partnership.

Engel said the bilateral ties, especially those between legislatures, are crucial to the all-around interests of both sides.