PM meets new US ambassador, calls for early TPP signing

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung asked the US to adopt a more flexible approach to the negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) for the agreement’s early signing, while receiving new US Ambassador Theodore Osius in Hanoi on January 7.

PM Nguyen Tan Dung receives new US Ambassador Theodore Osius in Hanoi on January 7. (Image credit: VGP)

The PM suggested both sides work hard to carry out co-operation in nine areas as specified in their bilateral strategic partnership framework, including economics, trade, investment, and the exchange of high-level visits, especially in 2015 when Vietnam and the US are to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the normalisation of ties.

Osius conveyed President Barack Obama’s words noting his appreciation for the outcomes of his talks with PM Dung on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit in Myanmar last year, while also reiterating his support of Vietnam’s prosperity and independence.

According to the ambassador, President Obama believes participation in the TPP is crucial for Vietnam to become a strong, independent and prosperous country.

Ambassador Osius said he agreed with Vietnam’s economic development priorities, adding that the US has been more flexible with the TPP talks, in the hope that the negotiations will conclude in March so that President Obama can submit it to the US Congress for approval in May.

On the economic front, the guest said the US’s ambition is to become the top investor and trade partner of Vietnam.

As for other issues, Osius acknowledged Vietnam’s progresses in ensuring human and citizen rights and expressed support for the country in building a law-governed state.

The US also supported Vietnam’s stance and viewpoint regarding regional security issues, he said, adding that President Obama is making efforts for the full removal of the arms sale ban on Vietnam.

Stressing the significance of the Vietnam-US comprehensive partnership, Osius vowed to do his best during his tenure for the benefit of bilateral ties.

(Source: nhandan.org.vn)