10th Anniversary of Normalization

Remarks by Deputy Secretary Gordon Mansfield
Presidential Delegation Leader
Reception for 10th Anniversary of Normalization

Hanoi, July 12, 2005

Distinguished guests and friends,

I am honored to bring you greetings and best wishes from the President of the United States on this historic occasion.  Both President Bush and Secretary of State Rice wish the government and the people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam much happiness, good fortune, and long life. 
 
All of you, I am sure, have seen recent pictures of Prime Minister Khai together with President Bush.  Both men enjoyed their meeting and getting to know each other. Just the facts that their meeting went on for twice the time in their original schedules - and that both men were smiling broadly at the end of their meeting – clearly show the positive feelings both have for one another.
 
I am thoroughly impressed with the extraordinary list of events which are taking place here in Hanoi, in Washington, DC and in other cities in Vietnam and in the United States to commemorate the 10th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations between our two countries.  These events which include performing arts, exhibits, concerts, and sports events are excellent examples of our deep and still growing friendship.  
 
I know that the Ministry of Culture and Information and the U.S. Mission to Vietnam co-sponsored the 10th Anniversary Logo Contest.
 
If you look at the winning 10th anniversary logo on the banners here, you can see the vision of its designer, a young Vietnamese man named Mr.Trần Mạnh Linh. In that logo, the American flag shaped in the letter “A” and the Vietnamese flag shaped in the letter “V” stand in symmetry, side by side. That is the road and vision ahead – side-by-side, clear, and bright.
 
We will never forget our past.  We can look back at the path that has brought us this far and at the same time try to anticipate the road ahead. We remember the wounds of the past, but look beyond that to the opportunities of the future.  Each of us, as government officials, business people, veterans or NGO workers, has a role to play in building this vision together.
 
My wife and I, as well as all the members of my delegation, have been amazed and enthralled by our brief stay in this beautiful world capital.  All I can say is that we look forward to returning and getting to see some more of the many beautiful and wondrous sites.  Your friendship toward us has been very apparent and deeply appreciated.  Our best wishes for the future.
Thank you.