According to the Vietnam News Agency, on February 13 at the Party Central Committee’s headquarters, General Secretary To Lam held talks with US Assistant Secretary of State Michael DeSombre, who was paying an official visit to Vietnam. 

US Assistant Secretary of State Michael DeSombre expressed his sincere appreciation to the General Secretary for taking the time to receive him, saying he was honored to visit Vietnam. He conveyed congratulations from US President Donald Trump to General Secretary To Lam on his re-election and on the success of the 14th National Party Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

The General Secretary shared that the 14th National Party Congress concluded successfully, marking a milestone that opens a new stage of development for Vietnam. He also extended his thanks to President Donald Trump for his congratulatory letter on the occasion of the Congress’s success.

Welcoming the visit by the US Assistant Secretary of State, the General Secretary highly valued the role of the US Department of State in fostering the positive momentum of Vietnam - US relations in recent years. He reiterated that Vietnam consistently considers the US one of its top important partners and is ready to enhance comprehensive cooperation in all areas for the benefit of the two peoples, while contributing actively to peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world.

The General Secretary underscored that Vietnam will continue to steadfastly pursue its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, self-strengthening, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, while promoting multilateralization and diversification of external relations. Vietnam remains a responsible member of the international community, ready to make active contributions to regional and global issues.

For his part, the US Assistant Secretary of State said President Trump greatly appreciates the General Secretary’s acceptance of the invitation to participate in the Peace Council initiative in Gaza.

He affirmed that the US attaches importance to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam, supports a strong, independent and prosperous Vietnam, and looks forward to elevating cooperation with Vietnam at a strategic level in both bilateral ties and regional and international matters.

The US Assistant Secretary of State also expressed his appreciation for the outcomes of his meetings with Vietnamese ministries and agencies during the visit, affirming his continued commitment to promoting substantive development of Vietnam - US relations in the coming time.