Professor Pham Quang Minh interviewed by Politico Magazine

The meeting aimed to discuss issues surrounding US President Donald Trump's 11-day visit to Asian countries, including Vietnam. First of all, regarding Vietnam's expectations after the US President's visit, Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh expressed his hope for changes in the US administration's foreign policy on issues such as bilateral and multilateral trade, as well as political relations with Asia, where there are US allies such as Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. Regarding trade, the Rector hopes that the Donald Trump administration will become more open in trade with Asian countries. Because Donald Trump's protectionist trade policy, typically the decision to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement, will make Asian countries worried. In addition, the Donald Trump administration needs to re-enforce political commitments and increase its presence in Asia. In particular, in sensitive issues such as the East Sea dispute, the US government can contribute to maintaining freedom of navigation/flight and supporting the development of a Code of Conduct (COC) of the disputing parties.

When asked about the US-Vietnam bilateral relationship, Prof. Dr. Pham Quang Minh expressed optimism about future prospects. Historically, the two countries have had interactions and contacts; for example, when President Ho Chi Minh sent a letter to US President Harry Truman in 1946, until the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1995. This proves that the two former enemies can overcome ups and downs to become friends and partners. The two countries are maintaining a comprehensive partnership. In the field of people-to-people diplomacy, there are currently more than 2 million Vietnamese people living in the US. Many have decided to return to Vietnam to invest and live. In terms of education, there are currently nearly 26,000 Vietnamese students studying in the US, and there are many prospects for improving educational cooperation between the two countries. Although there are still some disagreements on issues such as political institutions and human rights, the Principal believes that the relationship between the two countries will continue to develop, especially in the economic field.

Professor Pham Quang Minh took a souvenir photo with Ms. Isabelle Taft

On November 3, President Donald Trump began an 11-day trip to Hawaii and five Asian countries. This is the longest trip by a US president to Asia in 25 years. This is Mr. Trump's first trip to Asia, and also the longest trip he has ever made since taking office. Mr. Trump will pay a state visit to Vietnam from November 11-12, after attending the APEC Summit in Da Nang.