'The U.S. can help enhance Vietnam's long-term security.'

US Ambassador to Vietnam Ted Osius said that the United States can offer many things to help enhance Vietnam's security in the short, medium, and long term.

Yesterday, Mr. Osius spoke at Hanoi National University about the prospects for bilateral relations between Vietnam and the United States. Photo: AFP

Yesterday, Mr. Osius spoke about the current state and future direction of Vietnam-US bilateral relations to students at Hanoi National University, as the two countries celebrate the 20th anniversary of the normalization of relations.

The US ambassador reviewed the progress in bilateral relations across key areas including politics, diplomacy, economics, education, science and technology, environment, healthcare, addressing the consequences of war, and defense and security cooperation.

Regarding military and security cooperation, Osius suggested that, as Vietnam focuses on modernizing its defense capabilities, it might turn to traditional partners, which he considered understandable. "Vietnam needs many friends, especially in such a complex and dynamic region. However, the U.S. can offer many things to help enhance Vietnam's security in the short, medium, and long term," Osius said.

"There is much more that our two countries can do together to maintain peace, prosperity, and independence for Vietnam and the region. To do so, both sides will need to make bold decisions and look towards a new future, while we remember and sincerely address our history. Although we share a complex history, I believe we also share a bright future," the US ambassador said.

Mr. Osius also said that Minister of Public Security Tran Dai Quang will soon visit the United States to meet with high-ranking leaders and discuss various issues. Later this month, the armed forces of the two countries will jointly conduct humanitarian and disaster relief operations as part of this year's "Pacific Angel" program. In August, the navies of the two countries will collaborate on the Pacific Partnership program.

"One of my mentors was Ambassador Pete Peterson, the first U.S. ambassador to Vietnam after normalization. He told me in January that 'nothing is impossible'... Let's take that as our motto for the next 20 years and beyond," Osius said at the end of his speech.

"With its tradition of being descendants of the Dragon and the Immortal, Vietnam has forged a strong pair of wings to soar. The U.S. government and people are ready to empower Vietnam to fly even higher and further," Osius said in Vietnamese, receiving applause from the audience.

The above quotes are taken from a speech given by Mr. Osius to students at Hanoi National University.

In October 2014, the United States partially lifted its ban on the sale of lethal weapons to Vietnam, aiming to boost maritime security. This was considered a historic move nearly 40 years after the end of the war. The US is currently in the process of finalizing an agreement to supply Vietnam with six high-speed patrol boats.

According to VNE