PNTR Legislation Marks Full Normalization of Relations: FM Spokesman

Statement by Mr. Le Dzung, Spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on December 20th, 2006 after U.S. President George Bush signed a legislation to establish permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) with Vietnam.

Vietnam welcomes the signing of a legislation by US President George Bush to establish permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) with Vietnam, marking full normalization of bilateral relations.

Such decision conforms with recent positive progress in Vietnam – US relationship. PNTR status will establish a sustainable foundation for the development of bilateral relations in all fields, particularly economic, trade and investment relations. From now on, Vietnam and the US are equal trading partners, applying mutually commitments made by the other side within WTO framework.

It is our hope that in coming time, Vietnam-US relations will be further strengthened and developed contributing to moving the bilateral relationship towards constructive partnership, friendship and multi-faceted cooperation on the basis of equality, non-intervention into each other’s internal affairs, mutual respect and benefit./.