President Phuc affirmed Vietnam always considers the US as a leading partner in its foreign policy and wants to further develop bilateral cooperative ties.

The Vietnamese leader thanked the US for giving support to Vietnam in the fight against COVID-19, especially its donation of 5 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

He underlined the significance of promoting defence ties between the two countries, adding that Vietnam expects close coordination from the US in settling war aftermath, MIA search, bomb and mine clearance, among others.

Austin said the US side will continue to partner with Vietnam in developing COVID-19 vaccines, and will do its best to support Vietnam in pandemic prevention and control.

Austin proposed the two sides consider lifting bilateral ties to a strategic partner♐ship in the future./.