Publication

This report explores developments in US-Vietnamese relations in 2008, highlighting US Congress' role in enhancing bilateral and economic relations. The author shows that since 2002, US-Vietnam political and security ties have expanded, symbolized by annual summits held since 2005. He argues that Vietnamese leaders have upgraded relations with the US in part due to concern about China's expanding influence in Southeast Asia and a desire for continued US support of their economic reforms. The report explores US-Vietnam Relations between 1975-2000 and policy initiatives under various presidential administrations. It then examines ties from 2000-2008, highlighting areas of US policy concern, including human rights, religious freedoms and US economic assistance.