Prime Minister Chinh said Vietnam always considers the US as one of the most important partners in its foreign policy, The Vietnamese government leader said the delegation's working visit to Vietnam helps tighten cooperation between the legislative bodies and the governments of the two countries. Senator Merkley affirmed that the US Congress considers Vietnam as one of the most important partners in the region. He pledged to continue supporting Vietnam in areas of mutual benefit, and wished the two side to upgrade their relations to a strategic partnership. The US Congress delegates said that priority will be given to addressing war consequences such as supporting people affected by war, searching for missing soldiers, combating climate change; and promoting cooperation in investment, trade, energy transmission./.