US Ambassador Marc Knapper has extended his deepest condolences over the tragic boat accident that occurred in Quang Ninh on July 19. The United States stands ready to support Vietnam in disaster preparedness, rescue and relief operations, and in addressing extreme weather events.

On the morning of July 21, National Assembly Vice Chairman Tran Quang Phuong received Ambassador Knapper to discuss strategies for strengthening bilateral cooperation within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Vietnam-US diplomatic relations.

Vice Chairman Phuong affirmed Vietnam’s strong commitment to its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the United States and expressed appreciation for the US support of a “strong, independent, self-reliant, and prosperous” Vietnam.

He welcomed the positive developments in bilateral cooperation, spanning politics, diplomacy, economics, trade, investment, education, training, and post-war recovery.

The Vietnam-US parliamentary relationship has become a bright spot in the countries' ties, evolving from a focus on healing wartime wounds to full normalization and, today, strategic partnership.

Vice Chairman Phuong urged Ambassador Knapper to promote continued US support for realizing bilateral commitments. He called for greater engagement through high-level visits and delegation exchanges across all channels, to strengthen political trust and mutual understanding.

Regarding parliamentary exchanges, Vietnam’s National Assembly is open to receiving US congressional delegations and hopes to enhance mutual learning and legislative collaboration.

Ambassador Knapper reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working closely with Vietnam to effectively implement the pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He emphasized the US will continue to support Vietnam in achieving its socio-economic development goals.

Marking the 30th anniversary of diplomatic normalization, the ambassador pledged to further promote practical and meaningful cooperation initiatives through US government agencies.

Vice Chairman Phuong shared Vietnam’s policy direction and ongoing legislative efforts to reform the administrative apparatus, improve governance efficiency, and strengthen international economic integration.

Vietnam is determined to build an independent, self-reliant economy with deep global integration. Science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation have been identified as top priorities and key drivers for developing a modern production force.

He asked Ambassador Knapper and the US Embassy to enhance cooperation, facilitate technology transfer, and support Vietnam in becoming a regional high-tech hub and a vital link in the global semiconductor supply chain. He also urged the US to soon recognize Vietnam’s market economy status and remove the country from strategic export control lists D1 and D3.

Ambassador Knapper praised the strong commitment of Vietnam’s leadership in implementing a two-tier local governance system, citing his recent field visits as evidence of early successes.

He acknowledged the critical role of Vietnam’s National Assembly in shaping long-term national development policies, particularly those demonstrated during the 9th session of the 15th National Assembly.

The US business community has been especially encouraged by recent legislative outcomes, notably in the areas of digital economy and high-tech infrastructure development.

Ambassador Knapper concluded by reiterating his heartfelt condolences over the Quang Ninh tourist boat tragedy and confirmed the United States’ willingness to assist Vietnam in disaster response, emergency rescue, and climate resilience efforts.

Tran Thuong