Vietnam, US hold virtual ministerial talks on reciprocal trade
Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien welcomed the proposals put forward by the US side and reiterated Vietnam’s request for consideration of key areas of interest, including reciprocal tariff policies and access for Vietnamese key export products to the US market.
At the simultaneous online talks between Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien and US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on June 19 (Photo: VNA)
Hanoi (VNA) – Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien on June 19 held simultaneous online talks with US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, as the two countries continue negotiations towards a reciprocal trade agreement.
The ministerial discussions focused on identifying solutions and orientations to resolve existing obstacles hindering the negotiation process.
Dien welcomed the proposals put forward by the US side and reiterated Vietnam’s request for consideration of key areas of interest, including reciprocal tariff policies and access for Vietnamese key export products to the US market.
He underscored Vietnam’s wish to work with the US in developing harmonised and practical rules of origin that are well-suited to global supply chains, ensure non-discrimination, and create favourable conditions for businesses in both countries.
At the event (Photo: VNA)
The US officials commended Vietnam’s efforts and goodwill in addressing outstanding issues. They noted that such an approach would provide a sound basis for the US to consider reciprocal tariff measures that are appropriate to Vietnam’s specific conditions and circumstances.
Both Lutnick and Greer affirmed the US’s willingness and determination to reach an agreement that serves the mutual interests of both sides. Greer added t♎hat the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) would soon finalise and return the necessary documents to Vietnam to facilitate further discussions./.
During the negotiations, the US highly evaluated Vietnam’s goodwill and efforts, affirmed its appreciation for the bilateral relationship, acknowledged Vietnam’s proposals and concerns, and considered these an important basis for continuing discussions and moving towards a final agreement.
The two sides also agreed to convene an online working-level meeting in the coming days to continue resolving outstanding issues and prepare for a virtual ministerial dialogue between Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien and US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick.
Regarding the ongoing negotiations on a Reciprocal Trade Agreement between the two countries, he emphasised that Vietnam remains consistent in its approach to the talks with the US, aiming for a bilateral agreement based on respect for sovereignty, independence, political system, harmonisation and balance of interests, as well as in line with international commitments and the development level of each country.
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