On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has extended warm congratulations, praising the "remarkable journey" that has transformed former adversaries into Comprehensive Strategic Partners. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) and in remarks to the press, Secretary Rubio highlighted the deep trust and cooperation that have blossomed across diverse fields, from trade and education to health and security. This milestone underscores a unique partnership committed to advancing peace, prosperity, and security for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
From Former Foes to Trusted Partners: A Thirty-Year Odyssey
July 12, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in international relations: the 30th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic ties between the United States and Vietnam.
In a message posted on his X social media account on July 11 (US time), Secretary Rubio wrote, "Thirty years ago, the U.S. and Vietnam began a remarkable journey from former foes to Comprehensive Strategic Partners.
This sentiment was echoed in his remarks to the press on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where he emphasized the "deeply symbolic" and "promising" nature of the US-Vietnam partnership.
Key Milestones in a Rapidly Evolving Relationship
The journey from the formal announcement by US President Bill Clinton and Vietnamese Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet on July 11-12, 1995, has been marked by continuous upgrades and deepening cooperation:
1995: Normalization of Diplomatic Relations: This laid the groundwork for a new era of engagement after decades of conflict.
2013: Establishment of Comprehensive Partnership: This elevated the relationship, fostering cooperation across a broader spectrum of areas.
2023: Upgrading to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: During President Joe Biden's state visit to Hanoi in September 2023, the ties were formally elevated to the highest level, signaling a profound level of trust and shared strategic interests.
This new framework for Peace, Cooperation, and Sustainable Development encompasses a wide range of collaboration.
Pillars of the US-Vietnam Partnership Today
Secretary Rubio and other US officials have highlighted several key areas where the two nations are collaborating:
Economic Growth and Trade: The bilateral trade volume has seen unprecedented growth over the past three decades, with continued efforts to ensure a balanced partnership that benefits both economies.
The U.S. remains a top foreign investor in Vietnam. Peace and Security: Both nations are committed to promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, including issues related to maritime safety and security, particularly in the South China Sea.
Education and People-to-People Ties: Strong exchanges in education and cultural understanding continue to build bridges between the two peoples.
Health and Development: Collaboration extends to public health initiatives, energy security, and sustainable development goals.
Overcoming War Legacies: Joint efforts to address the aftermath of war, including accounting for missing personnel and environmental remediation, have been crucial in building mutual trust.
A Model for International Relations
US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper also released a video message, remarking that in just three decades, the two countries have moved from "healing the wounds of war to becoming trusted partners." He expressed optimism that the trust and cooperation will continue to grow in the next 30 years.
The transformation of the US-Vietnam relationship is often cited as a unique and remarkable model in international diplomacy, demonstrating how former adversaries can overcome a complex past to forge a strong, multifaceted partnership based on mutual respect and shared interests.