The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to openly discuss technical issues arising during implementation, thereby helping to ensure the effectiveness of development assistance programmes.

Opening the meeting, Deputy General Director Dang Ngoc Minh welcomed the participation of representatives from the US Embassy and emphasised that tax refunds related to aid programmes are primarily technical matters arising in the course of policy implementation.

“Viet Nam always respects and strictly fulfils the commitments stipulated in the Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation between the Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the US Government, signed on June 22, 2005, including provisions relating to tax policies for aid programmes.

Viet Nam’s tax authorities always work closely with relevant agencies to ensure proper implementation in accordance with regulations, while facilitating the effective execution of development assistance programmes,” the tax leader stressed.

Minh also affirmed that in the coming period, Viet Nam’s tax authorities will continue to enhance exchanges and coordination with international partners and diplomatic missions in order to promptly address any issues arising during the implementation of tax policies for aid programmes. This will contribute to reinforcing a transparent and stable cooperative environment consistent with international practices.

Also speaking at the meeting, James Peranteau, Economic Officer at the US Embassy in Viet Nam, highlighted that relations between the two countries have now been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, creating an important foundation for expanding cooperation across various fields. According to James Peranteau, US technical assistance and aid programmes in Viet Nam have recently been implemented in numerous areas of shared interest, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development.

Regarding aid funds provided to Viet Nam that are not subject to taxation, representatives of the US Embassy stated that the US would comply with these regulations during implementation. James Peranteau also emphasised that refunded taxes do not bring financial benefits to the US, but will instead continue to be used for assistance and aid programmes serving development objectives in Viet Nam.

The working session took place in an open, candid and constructive atmosphere. Both sides agreed to continue strengthening exchanges and close coordination in order to address difficulties during implementation, ensuring that aid programmes are carried out smoothly, in compliance with regulations, and contribute to further enhancing effective and substantive cooperation between Viet Nam and the US.