Professor Pham Quang Minh gives an interview to Politico Magazine.

The meeting aimed to discuss issues surrounding US President Donald Trump's 11-day visit to Asian countries, including Vietnam. First, regarding Vietnam's expectations after the US president's visit, Professor Pham Quang Minh expressed hope for a change in the US administration's foreign policy on issues such as bilateral and multilateral trade, as well as political relations with Asia, home to US allies like Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. On the trade issue, the Rector hoped that the Trump administration would become more open to trade with Asian countries. This is because Trump's protectionist trade policies, exemplified by his decision to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, would cause concern among Asian nations. Furthermore, the Trump administration needs to reaffirm its political commitment and strengthen its presence in Asia. In particular, in sensitive issues such as the South China Sea dispute, the US government can contribute to maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight, and support the development of a Code of Conduct (COC) among the disputing parties.

When asked about US-Vietnam bilateral relations, Professor 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, leading up to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1995. This demonstrates that two former enemies can overcome ups and downs to become friends and partners. The two countries maintain 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. Regarding education, there are nearly 26,000 Vietnamese students studying in the US, and there are many prospects for enhancing educational cooperation between the two countries. Although there are still some disagreements on issues such as political systems and human rights, the Rector believes that the relationship between the two countries will continue to develop, especially in the economic field.

Professor Pham Quang Minh poses for a commemorative photo with Ms. Isabelle Taft.

On November 3rd, 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. It is also Trump's first trip to Asia and his longest since taking office. He will pay a state visit to Vietnam from November 11-12, following his participation in the APEC Summit in Da Nang.