Vietnam, US boost defence ties

At the meeting, both sides agreed to further bilateral defence ties. They expressed their hope to further strengthen defence ties on the basis of respecting independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of each nation.

"We signed a joint statement to guide future military co-operation between the two countries. We’ll enhance training co-operation, increase military consultations and strengthen co-operation in overcoming the aftermath of the American War, support each other in UN peacekeeping mission, and increase maritime security co-operation", said General Phung Quang Thanh - Vietnamese Defence Minister.

This is the fifth visit to Vietnam by a US Defence Secretary since the two countries normalised relations. Defence Secretary Carter visited a Vietnamese coast guard ship in Haiphong and pledged to provide $ 18 million to help Vietnam purchase new patrol vessels.

The joint vision statement on defence co-operation is expected to strengthen bilateral friendship, mutual trust and understanding and deepen the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.