Ambassador Marc Knapper reflects on key 'meaningful moments' in Vietnam-U.S. relations in 2025
WVR - “As 2025 comes to a close, we celebrate a truly special milestone – 30 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam,” expressed U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper in his message on December 30, 2025.
Latest
 |
| Ambassador Marc Knapper reflects on key 'meaningful moments' in Vietnam-U.S. relations in 2025. (Photo: Nhat Hong) |
On the occasion of the New Year 2026, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper highlighted the achievements in bilateral relations over the past year and expressed hopes for the coming year. “As 2025 comes to a close, we celebrate a truly special milestone – 30 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam. This year was filled with meaningful moments, showcasing the strength and growth of our bilateral partnership,” Ambassador Marc Knapper stated.
In his message, Ambassador Marc Knapper mentioned the significant cooperation in higher education: We welcomed the largest delegation of U.S. university representatives to visit Vietnam, aimed at enhancing academic exchange and collaboration between universities of both countries. I am very proud that the excellent educational institutions in the United States continue to attract Vietnamese students, making Vietnam the fifth-largest source of international students, with 36,000 studying in the U.S.
In the cultural domain, Ambassador Marc Knapper referred to the series of commemorative activities that brought the stories of both nations to the public. This series included four Friendship Festivals held across Vietnam and a special collaboration with Vietnamese rapper Suboi to launch the music video "Never Before," celebrating the bond between the peoples of the two countries.
The United States also published a special report titled “Vietnam Matters for America, America Matters for Vietnam,” utilizing data and statistics to illustrate the depth of the cooperative relationship.
Additionally, according to Ambassador Marc Knapper, bilateral relations have expanded into humanitarian support in response to the aftermath of several storms and floods in northern and central Vietnam. In recent months, the U.S. has provided $1.75 million in aid to Vietnam. Furthermore, the two countries organized the first Pacific Partnership program between the U.S. Army Pacific and Quảng Trị province, focusing on enhancing medical readiness and disaster response capabilities.
The two nations inaugurated the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training Field at the Vietnam National Mine Action Center in Ba Vì and continued to make progress in dioxin remediation at Bien Hoa airport, underscoring the U.S.'s commitment to addressing war legacies while promoting cooperation on a forward-looking agenda.
Economic relations have continued to deepen this year. The United States remains Vietnam's top export market and second-largest trading partner. A record number of over 100 Vietnamese businesses attended the 11th SelectUSA Investment Summit, aiming to enhance trade and investment opportunities. “We look forward to welcoming more leading Vietnamese companies to this event next year,” Ambassador Marc Knapper shared.
The United States and Vietnam are closely collaborating in digital technology – with U.S. government programs and companies like Meta, Google, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and AWS working alongside Vietnamese ministries, universities, and startups to expand AI infrastructure, train talent, and accelerate national digital transformation, contributing to a stronger and more prosperous relationship.
“Looking towards next year, we remain committed to deepening our partnership and continuing our cooperation for a safer, more secure, and prosperous future for both nations and the Indo-Pacific region. I wish you a safe, joyful, and inspiring New Year,” Ambassador Marc Knapper concluded.
