New York, NY, November 17, 2023 – Daniel Rosen, the Vice Chair of the American Jewish Congress, visited Vietnam, where he met with Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai. In their hour-long meeting, Daniel Rosen and the Deputy Prime Minister discussed several issues and topics, ranging from international diplomacy to trade and economic engagement.
Daniel Rosen’s visit last week comes at a time when Vietnam has become a pivotal actor and partner for the United States in its Southeast Asia policy, and at a time when Vietnam-Israel relations are at a historic high.
During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai highlighted the strengthening ties between the United States and Vietnam and celebrated the recently established U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, announced during President Biden’s visit to Vietnam in September 2023.
Rosen delved into the potential for increased cooperation across various fields. Moreover, he commended the enhanced ties between Vietnam and the State of Israel with the Deputy Prime Minister. Earlier this year, in July, Vietnam and Israel announced the signing of a free trade agreement (FTA) after seven years of negotiations, which made Israel only the 16th nation or grouping with which Vietnam has established a free trade pact.
The American Jewish Congress has long advocated for the intensification of ties and engagement with South Asian and Southeastern Asian states. Countries like Vietnam, eager for foreign investment and expertise to diversity their economies, also show significant potential for intensified political and diplomatic cooperation.
During this trip, Daniel Rosen also met with Ambassador Yaron Mayer, the Israeli Ambassador to Vietnam. A veteran diplomat, Ambassador Mayer concurrently serves as Israel’s non-resident Ambassador to Laos. This meeting provided an opportunity for them to discuss Israel’s growing footprint and influence in the region, as well as the diplomatic challenges stemming from the war between Israel and Hamas following the terrorist attack on October 7.
The American Jewish Congress will continue to remain a strong proponent for expanded regional engagement on diplomacy, trade, and climate with Asian nations. We look forward to advancing dialogue and initiatives in the region to further American and Jewish interests.
