HCMC – Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called on the country’s trade negotiation team to intensify efforts to secure a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States, stressing the need for a balanced and mutually beneficial outcome.
During a meeting of the Government Standing Committee today (May 24), he reviewed the outcomes of the second round of negotiations for the Vietnam-U.S. bilateral reciprocal trade agreement, held in Washington D.C. from May 19 to 22. He commended the delegation’s diligent preparation and adherence to directives from the Politburo, the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat, the General Secretary, and himself.
“The negotiation team has made significant efforts, and we’ve seen positive progress,” Chinh said. “Both sides have had the opportunity to exchange information, share perspectives, and better understand each other’s circumstances, paving the way for a constructive next round.”
He urged the delegation to build on the progress made, adapt to evolving circumstances, and work toward an agreement that aligns with Vietnam’s capabilities. He stressed that negotiations must uphold principles of mutual benefit and shared risk, strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and the U.S. while contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and beyond.
The recent talks in Washington saw both sides identify areas of consensus and issues requiring further discussion. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for early June, as agreed by the chief negotiators of both countries.
Chinh also praised the proactive engagement of Vietnamese agencies, businesses, and diplomatic missions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vietnamese Embassy, and trade representatives in the U.S., for their support in advancing the talks. He encouraged continued collaboration to promote trade in goods where the U.S. has strengths and Vietnam has demand, such as Boeing aircraft, LNG, and select agricultural products, to achieve trade balance as soon as possible.
Relevant ministries, including Finance and Agriculture and Environment, have been directed to swiftly address issues related to U.S.-backed projects. The PM assured that the Government would closely monitor developments, ensuring alignment with strategic directives to deliver effective and substantive outcomes for both nations.
The push for a trade agreement reflects Vietnam’s commitment to deepening economic ties with the U.S. As negotiations progress, both sides aim to foster a framework that supports equitable growth and strengthens bilateral relations.
