U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Jennifer Wicks kicked off her new term by inviting viewers to "enjoy one cup of iced milk coffee to begin this exciting journey!", in a video released on 15/7.
In the video, Wicks reiterated the geopolitical and strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region, a point emphasized by U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. She highlighted Vietnam as one of the U.S.'s most important partners in the area.
"I will strive daily to advance common interests, helping both our nations become safer, more secure, and more prosperous," she stated.
The ambassador also shared personal details, identifying herself as a Korean-American from a small town in Minnesota. She has dedicated her career to government service, including roles with the military and the Department of State.
"Over the past decade, I have guided over 1,000 foreign policy leaders through their confirmation and appointment processes by coordinating closely with the White House and the Senate," she explained.
Jennifer Wicks and her family arrived in Hanoi on 1/7. She officially began her term in Vietnam after presenting her credentials to General Secretary, President To Lam on 6/7.
During her initial days in Hanoi, the ambassador visited Hoan Kiem Lake and Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam. She also joined Vietnamese friends to celebrate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
Wicks reported that her first meeting with General Secretary, President To Lam focused on the importance of advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
"With a comprehensive and forward-looking agenda, our two countries have much more to accomplish together," she added.
Ambassador Wicks looks forward to advancing U.S. interests within the dynamic bilateral relationship with Vietnam. Her focus areas include: trade and investment, defense and security cooperation, and strengthening people-to-people connections.
During her meeting with Prime Minister Le Minh Hung on 13/7, Wicks also highlighted the importance of fostering people-to-people exchanges. She expressed a desire to expand cooperation in education, science and technology, and innovation, all to support Vietnam's development goals as outlined in Politburo Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW.
She affirmed her commitment to strengthening connections between U.S. and Vietnamese universities and supporting Vietnam in enhancing English language teaching quality. The ambassador pledged to be an active partner throughout her term, contributing to the continued development of Vietnam-U.S. relations.
Ngoc Anh
