HCMC - Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and State President To Lam met with U.S. President Joe Biden in New York on September 25 (local time) to discuss ways to deepen bilateral relations between the two nations.

This was the first meeting between the two leaders since Lam took up his new roles. The Vietnamese leader praised President Biden's address at the opening session of the United Nations General Assembly, saying he shared the lessons learned by the U.S. and Vietnam in promoting reconciliation and building post-war relations. Vietnam and the U.S. share a common vision of building a brighter future for all humanity, grounded in the lessons learned from their past, Lam said. He emphasized the unique nature of the Vietnam-U.S. relationship, which has over the past 50 years has evolved from being adversaries to partners, advancing from a comprehensive partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership—the highest level of bilateral relations. President Biden expressed his sympathy to Vietnam over the devastating impact of typhoon Yagi, while affirming that the U.S. Government is ready to assist Vietnam in the recovery process. He noted that the U.S. will continue to promote the partnership between the two countries based on mutual respect for each other's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political system. Party General Secretary and President To Lam underscored the strategic importance of the U.S. as a partner, expressing confidence that the Vietnam-U.S. comprehensive strategic partnership will continue to develop steadily and sustainably, serving the interests and aspirations of the people of both nations. The two leaders agreed that both sides should continue to closely coordinate to effectively implement the 2023 Vietnam-U.S. joint statement. This includes enhancing contacts and exchanges at all levels, particularly at the senior level, with a focus on boosting economic, trade, and investment cooperation, as well as high technology and semiconductor collaboration. Additionally, it aims to further leverage the potential for cooperation in the field of high-quality human resource training, considering this a continued priority and a breakthrough area in Vietnam-U.S. ties. Regarding shared international and regional issues, the two leaders agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in regional and international forums, including the ASEAN framework, the Mekong-U.S. Partnership, APEC, and the United Nations. This cooperation aims to promote dialogue, peace, stability, collaboration, and development in the region and globally.