Pham made the statement during his reception for a business delegation from the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) in Ha Noi on July 11.

He went on to say that Viet Nam will continue to further ease regulations on visa and work permits.

Regarding trade relations between Viet Nam and the U.S., Prime Minister Pham said the two countries have actively engaged in negotiations and basically agreed on a joint statement on a reciprocal trade agreement framework to lay foundation for promoting bilateral economic and trade cooperation in a stable and sustainable manner. He appreciated American businesses' support and positive contributions during the negotiation process.

Pham called on American businesses to push for the U.S. early recognition of Viet Nam's market economy status and lift export restrictions on certain high-tech products.

He also urged American businesses to expand high-quality investment in Viet Nam, speed up transfer of advanced technologies, and help train workforce for Vietnamese enterprises.

The Prime Minister pledged to continue simplifying administrative procedures and protect legitimate rights and interests of investors in the Southeast Asian country.