US President Barack Obama has held historic long talks at the White House with Vietnam’s Communist Party leader, Nguyen Phu Trong.
The first such meeting since the two countries normalised their relations to some extent around 20 years ago, Obama stated that despite of differing political philosophies, the two countries were “deepening co-operation”.
Analysts state that the two countries are seeking stronger ties in the face of an increasingly assertive China. This month also marks 40 years since the end of the historic Vietnam war.
“Obviously, there has been a difficult history between our two countries in the 20th Century and there continues to be significant differences in political philosophy and political systems. What we have seen is the emergence of a constructive relationship that is based on mutual respect and that has benefited the people of both countries,” remarked the First Man.
Trong described the talks as “cordial, constructive, positive and frank”. “What is of utmost importance is that we have been transformed from former enemies to become friends [and] comprehensive partners. I am convinced our relationship will continue to grow in the future” he further added. He also said that he had invited Obama to visit the Asian nation, and that the President had also accepted that warmly.
Also on the agenda were talks regarding trade. President Obama is seeking to create a 12-nation free trade plan known as the Trans- Pacific Partnership that would include Vietnam.
However, Tuesday’s meeting was not welcomed by everyone. There were many protests outside the White House.
