Viet Nam, U.S. starts second round of negotiations on reciprocal trade agreement

The Vietnamese delegation is headed by Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien.

During the first working day, both sides discussed a comprehensive approach to addressing fundamental issues of mutual concern and accelerating the negotiation process.

They engaged in open, frank, and constructive exchanges on key areas of mutual interest, aiming to clarify the content of the agreement and share information on each side's current policies, thereby laying the groundwork for the next steps in the negotiation process.

The same day, Nguyen had a working session with Westinghouse Electric Company-the world's leading supplier of safe and innovative nuclear technology.

He reiterated that Viet Nam has restarted its nuclear power program to ensure energy security amid rising electricity demand and instability of renewable energy sources.

The nation has potentials for nuclear power development, he said, adding that it provides a basis for promoting cooperation with international partners such as Westinghouse, including both large-scale nuclear power projects and small modular reactors (SMRs).

Energy cooperation will also serve as a key driver in helping to balance the bilateral trade relationship, noted Nguyen.

Executive Vice President of Westinghouse Electric Company Margaret Cosentino expressed strong support for Viet Nam's plan and emphasized the importance of long-term energy cooperation.

Both sides agreed to share information and move toward signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Westinghouse and the Viet Nam National Industry-Energy Group (Petro Viet Nam) in the field of nuclear power development.

They also committed to fostering stronger ties, particularly in key areas such as investing in energy infrastructure, enhancing technology transfer, as well as training a skilled technical workforce for nuclear power sector./.