HCM City (VNA) – A ceremony was held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 26 to mark the 249th anniversary of the US’ Independence Day (July 4, 1776–2025) and the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the US (1995–2025), underscoring the warm and growing friendship between the people of HCM City and the US.

Speaking at the event, organised by the HCM City Union of Friendship Organisations (HUFO), Standing Vice Chairman of the HCM City People’s Council and Chairman of the Vietnam – US Friendship Association of HCM City Pham Thanh Kien recalled that shortly after Vietnam’s independence, a Vietnam – US friendship association was established as the first bilateral people-to-people friendship organisation of the State of Vietnam under the directive of President Ho Chi Minh.

Despite a complex history, the Vietnam – US relationship has evolved remarkably, culminating in the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, he noted.

He emphasised the expansion of bilateral cooperation in areas ranging from trade, education, and defence to innovation and sustainable development, along with joint efforts to overcome the legacies of war, including the return of wartime artefacts, the clearance of bombs and mines, and the environmental remediation of toxic substances.

Kien attributed such results to not only efforts by both countries' governments but also perservering support from people's organisations, businesses, and dedicated individuals.

On this occasion, the official expressed appreciation to US Consul General in HCM City Susan Burns for her dedication to strengthening the friendship between the American and Vietnamese people, particularly in the southern city. Her support, he noted, has contributed significantly to fruitful cooperation in healthcare, education, environmental protection, and community development.

Burns, in her remarks, expressed gratitude to HUFO for organising the event, and noted the profound transformation in bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were established three decades ago. She described the Vietnam – US relationship today as one of mutual trust and friendship, built on reconciliation and respect for each other’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political systems.

Highlighting the potential for further collaboration, she highlighted education and training as a pillar of people-to-people diplomacy between the two countries. She reaffirmed the US Mission’s commitment to strengthening partnerships between their higher education institutions, enabling both nations to benefit from the talents of students and educators.

𝓡 Cultural and professional exchange programmes, she added, continue to play a central role in deepening mutual understanding and sustaining a strong bilateral relationship. Through cooperation and diverse initiatives, the two countries are working toward a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future together./.