The announcement was made during an April 24 meeting between Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh and the US Ambassador in Hanoi during which Thanh hailed positive developments in bilateral ties and thanked the US for its double increase of funding for post-war bomb and mine clearance in Vietnam.

He asked Ambassador Osius to continue support and build up better relations between the US and Vietnam, adding that the increase in budget for UXO removal will help Vietnam deal with the war aftermath and bring a peaceful life to the people. 

Minister Thanh also noted with satisfaction new developments in bilateral defence cooperation, including the sharing of experience in the US peacekeeping mission, humanitarian assistance, disaster mitigation, and ensuring maritime security and safety. 

The US diplomat in turn emphasized the need to strengthen high-level exchange visits by defence officials and properly carry out signed cooperation agreements.