Vietnam Roundup: Bilateral relations, typhoons, cooperation agreements
U.S-Vietnam diplomatic relations
The United States and Vietnam continue to strengthen their diplomatic and military relations through mutual assistance and collaboration. Recently, the U.S. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) extended its appreciation to Vietnam for its instrumental role in locating the remains of U.S. Marine Corps Captain Ronald W. Forrester, who was declared missing in action 52 years ago during the Vietnam War, Tuoi Tre News reports. The identification of his remains, achieved through circumstantial evidence and mitochondrial DNA analysis, is pivotal in the ongoing efforts that have seen Vietnam help identify and repatriate over 1,000 sets of remains since the Paris Peace Accords in 1973.
German-Vietnam ties
In a bid to enhance diplomatic ties further, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính of Vietnam welcomed the newly-appointed German Ambassador to Việt Nam, Helga Margarete, on September 27, 2023. The Prime Minister remarked on the robust development of Việtnam-German relations, particularly in light of high-profile visits by German leaders. He proposed celebratory joint initiatives for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025 and highlighted the significance of cooperation under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. According to Vietnam News, the Ambassador committed to bolstering bilateral relations, especially in education and climate change, while both parties reiterated the importance of resolving regional disputes in accordance with international law.
Typhoon
Typhoon Yagi has wreaked havoc across northern Vietnam, marking a significant disaster with estimated damages soaring to $4.8 billion. As the strongest storm in Asia this year, the typhoon has resulted in 299 fatalities and 34 individuals reported missing, Lismore City News reports. Critical infrastructure, including factories and farmland, has suffered devastating impacts, raising concerns about Vietnam's economic growth forecast for 2024. Following the typhoon, the agriculture sector is experiencing inflation in pig prices, as flooding has disrupted farms, which in turn may pose challenges to financial institutions due to anticipated government debt relief measures.
Vietnam, Cuba renew long-standing friendship ties
Recent high-level discussions between Vietnam and Cuba have led to the reinforcement of their longstanding friendship, Vietnam News reports. Following a state visit by the General Secretary and President Tô Lâm from September 25-27, a joint statement was made emphasising the commitment to enhance exchanges across various sectors including agriculture, healthcare, and technology. A noteworthy declaration made during this visit was the establishment of 2025 as the 'Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Year', coinciding with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations, signifying a pivotal moment for cooperation and mutual support on international matters.
Vietnam-India cooperation
The recent 5th annual dialogue between the Việt Nam Academy of Social Sciences and the Indian Council of World Affairs, held in Hà Nội on September 27, sought to improve the efficiency of Việt Nam-India cooperation amid evolving global dynamics. According to Vietnam News, the dialogue underscored the necessity for routine information exchanges to fully realise the potential of their comprehensive strategic partnership. Discussions led by Indian Ambassador Soumen Bagchi highlighted the historical connections and the opportunities presented by recent shifts in leadership, particularly in areas including trade, technology, and defence.
