Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang responded to reporters’ queries about the purpose and significance of the US naval ships’ visit to the central coastal city of Da Nang during a regular press briefing in Hanoi on March 5.

Aircraft carrier SS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) anchores at Danang Bay

The current visit of US Navy aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG52) to Danang contributes to the development of the relationship between the two nations.
The US naval ships are visiting Tien Sa port, Da Nang, from March 5- 9, as part of a host of activities to mark 25 years of Vietnam-US diplomatic ties.

The visit helps foster the bilateral relations under the framework of the bilateral comprehensive partnership and contributes to the maintenance of peace, stability, security and cooperation in the region, Hang said.

During the visit, US sailors are set to take part in such activities as a welcome ceremony, a joint press conference, a coutersy visit to municipal leaders, and community and professional exchanges, she added.

Concerning the ASEAN-US Summit, the official said the event is not transpiring in the time ahead due to the complicated developments of the acute respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)

With regard to citizen protection in epidemic-affected regions, Hang said this is a priority. 

The Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Vietnamese representative offices have established close contact with people living in regions hit by the novel coronavirus to get regular updates about the situation there and offer timely support if necessary.

They have advised Vietnamese people residing in the affected areas to rigorously follow instructions made by the local authorities to prevent the spread of the virus.

Vietnamese embassies have closely cooperated with host countries’ authorities and launched a round-the-clock hotline for Vietnamese expats to provide support for those in need.

Concerning information about the Republic of Korea’s sending of task forces to assist Korean citizens under medical observation, Hang said Vietnam has frequently shared information and facilitated the RoK’s citizen protection in line with epidemic control regulations, domestic and international laws and practices.