'Key' to the next 30 years of Vietnam-US relations

Education, innovation, and partnerships are crucial aspects contributing to "sowing the seeds" for a new chapter in the Vietnam-US relationship, according to Ambassador Marc Knapper.

“As the Vietnamese saying goes, ‘those who plant trees will one day reap the harvest,’ this truly reflects the relationship between our two countries. Over the past 30 years, we have sown the seeds of friendship and nurtured the trees to grow, so that we can all enjoy the fruits of the Vietnam-U.S. partnership and plant new trees for future generations,” said U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper at Hanoi National University, commemorating the 30th anniversary of bilateral relations (1995-2025).

Mr. Knapper emphasized that education , innovation, and partnerships will contribute to forming the foundation for the next 30 years of the Vietnam-US relationship. In particular, innovation "is key to the next 30 years of our relationship."

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper speaks. (Photo: Vietnam National University, Hanoi)

Regarding education, the Ambassador stated that Vietnam is currently the sixth largest source of international students in the United States. “I expect that number to increase to fifth, fourth, or even third someday. Currently, there are over 30,000 Vietnamese students studying in the US, but when including online programs, the number of Vietnamese students accessing the American education system is 300,000.”

Through educational programs, citizens of both countries will gain a better understanding of each other's countries, helping to bring a shared vision for the future to both nations, according to the Ambassador.

Mr. Knapper mentioned popular applications in Vietnam whose founders had studied in the United States. “These stories remind us that education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but also about identifying and solving real-world problems, driving economic growth and development through innovation.”

Thirty years ago, concepts like artificial intelligence, climate change, and cybersecurity were not widely discussed. Now, the United States and Vietnam have strong cooperation and investment in these fields.

“Therefore, in the next phase of our comprehensive strategic partnership, we are taking a forward-looking approach by focusing on high-tech industries, semiconductors, AI, 5G technology, renewable energy, digital innovation, etc. The private sector is strongly involved in this process, with companies like Intel and NVIDIA having invested significantly and collaborated with talented Vietnamese engineers to create new technologies,” the Ambassador said.

Delegates visit the traditional exhibition room of Hanoi National University.

He also reaffirmed the importance of the partnership, particularly in addressing the consequences of war. According to the Ambassador, 2025 is significant not only because it marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, but also because it marks 50 years since the end of the war. This is a journey that requires genuine courage and joint efforts from both sides.

“Now our comprehensive strategic partnership is ready and prepared to meet the challenges of today and the decades to come. The next chapter, the future of Vietnam, Vietnam’s relationship with the US and other countries, all depend on you,” he told the students.

Nguyen Hoang Hai, Vice Rector of Vietnam National University, Hanoi, delivered a speech.

Also at the event, Vice Rector of Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Nguyen Hoang Hai, reviewed the diverse educational cooperation programs (academic, research partnerships, proposed initiatives, faculty and student exchanges, and the organization of conferences and workshops) between the university and American educational institutions. According to Mr. Nguyen Hoang Hai, through these efforts, the parties not only promote knowledge but also pave the way for greater global cooperation and understanding.

"As we approach the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam, it is important to reflect on the incredible progress we have made together."

This milestone serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of partnership and the possibilities that unfold as our two nations work together for mutual benefit. It is an opportunity for both of us to celebrate our deepening and strengthening relationship and to look forward to the next chapter in this shared journey.”

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper during a meeting with students at Hanoi National University.

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Hai stated that in 2000, then-US President Bill Clinton visited and spoke with students at the university. Over the years, Hanoi National University has also welcomed many heads of state, politicians, and renowned scholars from around the world.

Vietnam National University, Hanoi has signed 33 bilateral cooperation agreements and treaties with leading universities and research organizations in the United States. Last year, Vietnam National University, Hanoi and the University of Arizona signed a cooperation agreement in the field of semiconductor technology research and development, with a plan to train human resources at various levels, from high school to university and experts working in the industry.

It is expected that in the future there will be continued exchange activities such as curriculum development, sharing of learning materials, and exchange of staff and students between the school and American educational institutions and organizations.

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/chia-khoa-cho-30-nam-tiep-theo-cua-quan-he-viet-my-ar919067.html