Vietnamese president meets US counterpart Trump, calls for swift completion of reciprocal trade talks

During the meeting, the two leaders praised the positive outcomes of the Vietnam-U.S. comprehensive strategic partnership in recent years across multiple areas.

They agreed to continue close coordination to further develop bilateral ties in a deeper, more practical, stable, and sustainable manner, in line with the interests of both nations and contributing to peace, cooperation, and sustainable development regionally and globally.

Trade talks between the U.S. and Vietnam began in late April after Washington announced a reciprocal 46-percent tariff on Vietnamese imports, which was later postponed for 90 days to allow negotiations.

On August 1, President Trump issued an executive order cutting the tariff to 20 percent.

Building on the joint statement released on October 26 that outlined a framework for a fair and balanced trade deal, President Cuong called for the swift completion of negotiations on a reciprocal trade agreement to ensure mutual benefits.

He emphasized that Vietnam’s specific circumstances and the significance of bilateral relations should be taken into account throughout the negotiation process.

Cuong also proposed strengthening cooperation in politics and diplomacy, economy and trade, science and technology, defense and security, as well as in people-to-people exchanges and efforts to address war legacies.

He congratulated the U.S. on its achievements under President Trump’s leadership and commended his role in promoting conflict resolution and restoring peace in various parts of the world.

Vietnam welcomed Washington’s active and responsible contributions to the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions, he added.

Cuong emphasized that Vietnam stands ready to serve as a bridge and support efforts to seek lasting solutions to ongoing conflicts in line with international law.

For his part, President Trump reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam.

He praised Vietnam’s growing international role and its strong efforts in reform, openness, integration, and economic innovation.

Trump welcomed Vietnam’s increased imports of key U.S. products and expressed support for ASEAN’s central role, acknowledging Vietnam’s contributions to regional and international affairs.

During the meeting, President Cuong extended an invitation from Vietnam’s top leaders for President Trump and the First Lady to visit Vietnam, which Trump warmly accepted.

Trump also recalled his positive experiences during visits to Vietnam in 2017 and 2019 and pledged to arrange another visit.