Stronger ties are developing with Asia America. The US is indicating a more substantial commitment to Asia in recent times. This was particularly noticeable when, at the end of July, President Barack Obama hosted the Vietnamese President, Truong Tan Sang at the White House. The meeting was particularly poignant since it happened four decades after the end of America’s military involvement in the Vietnam War. As well, this is a time of advancing ties in security and trade with Asia America, via Washington and Hanoi.
President Obama said that he understood Asia America’s “extraordinarily complex history.” Further, the two regions have developed “mutual respect and trust,” and it is hoped that this will advance even more on economic as well as military issues in the future.
Some of the subjects discussed at the meeting included: the Trans-Pacific Partnership; South China Sea maritime disputes; climate change; human rights and economic ties. Vis-à-vis the partnership, Obama said, “we’re committed to the ambitious goal of completing this agreement before the end of the year because we know that this can create jobs and increase investment across the region and in both our countries.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, President Obama said:
“So I just want to say to President Sang how much I appreciate his visit. I think it signifies the maturing and the next stage of the development between the United States and Vietnam. As we increase consultation, increase cooperation, increase trade, and scientific and education exchanges, ultimately, that’s going to be good for the prosperity and opportunities of the people here in the United States, as well as good for the opportunities and prosperity of the people of Vietnam.”