Embassy Highlights, May - August 2010
American Center Celebrates Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month
May 4, 2010
The American Center celebrates Asian/Pacific Island Heritage Month with a presentation on the topic by visiting Professor Benjamin Muego
On May 4, the American Center celebrated Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month with a review and analysis of the origins and current socio-economic circumstances of Asian-Americans presented by visiting Professor Benjamin N. Muego. 53 American Center patrons gathered to learn about the size, diversity and growing cultural and political impact made by the many nationalities that comprise the Asian American population segment. Attendees were encouraged to ask questions to further their understanding of the presentation. Professor Muego (who is himself an Asian American) is a professor of Political Science and Asian Studies at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and a visiting professor at Ha Noi National University of Education.
Foreign Service Officer Test to be Offered in June
May 5, 2010
The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City have announced that they will offer the Foreign Service Officer Test in June 2010. In Hanoi, the test will be administered on Saturday June 5. Interested applicants can register online by going to www.careers.state.gov and clicking on ‘Register for the Test’. The registration deadline is May 24. Seating is limited.
The Foreign Service is the diplomatic corps of the U.S. Department of State comprised of approximately 11,500 employees dedicated to representing the American people, advocating the interests of the U.S. and responding to the needs of American citizens in other countries. Members of the Foreign Service can be sent to any embassy, consulate, or other diplomatic mission anywhere in the world, at any time, to serve the diplomatic needs of the United States.
While diplomatic careers are rewarding, they can require extremely difficult work, hardship and even working under dangerous conditions. To be eligible, the U.S. Department of State requires that all applicants be:
• U.S. citizens on the date they submit their registration package
• At least 20 years old and no older than 59 years of age on the day you submit your registration
• At least 21 years old and not yet 60 on the day you are appointed as a Foreign Service Officer
• Available for worldwide assignments, including Washington, D.C.
Embassy to Auction Excess Furniture and Equipment
May 7, 2010
The U.S. Embassy Hanoi will conduct an auction of excess office and household furniture, appliances, and computer equipment on Saturday, May 15, 2010, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. There will be no motor vehicles sold at this sale.
The auction is open to the general public and will take place at the U.S. Embassy Warehouse, 324 Nguyen Trai Road, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi.
All prospective bidders will be required to pay a VND 30,000 entrance fee and make a refundable deposit of USD 100.00 to be eligible to participate in the auction.
All items will be sold on an “as is” basis with no USG warranty with regard to operating condition. The vast majority of items will be sold in small individual lots.
U.S. Embassy to Co-Host Lower Mekong Initiative Infectious Disease Conference
May 11, 2010
From June 17 to 18, 2010, the U.S. Embassy and Vietnamese Ministry of Health will co-sponsor the “Lower Mekong Initiative Conference, Transnational Cooperation to Respond to Infectious Disease Threats.” The two-day forum, located at the Melia Hotel, will bring together senior government officials from LMI countries, namely Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with U.S. Government officials and international health experts to focus on an integrated regional approach to infectious disease. Participants will examine a range of topics primarily focused on international health regulations, counterfeit and substandard medicines, and regional successes in health research. Using a mix of presentations by experts and government officials, discussions and interactive panels, the gathering is expected to yield increased opportunities for communication and collaboration in the area of response to infectious disease threats. Click here for more conference information.
Background: On July 23, 2009, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the Foreign Ministers of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam met in Phuket, Thailand to highlight ongoing cooperation between the United States and the Lower Mekong countries in the areas of the environment, health, and education and to discuss the creation of the Lower Mekong Initiative to bolster this collaboration. At this meeting, the United States committed to hold a U.S.-Mekong conference on an integrated approach to infectious disease.
Mekong and Mississippi River Commissions Sign MOU
May 14, 2010
On May 12, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed creating a partnership between the Mekong River Commission and the Mississippi River Commission. The MOU will promote and enhance public safety and community welfare by fostering research, improving water resources development, and advancing systems for more economical, efficient, and environmentally-sound water resource engineering. The sister commissions plan to share research, expertise and experiences related to a host of topics including how river systems adapt to climate change, water resource management and forecasting, navigation improvements, food security, fish passage, wetland restoration and water quality. This historic MOU is the culmination of a year of collaboration between the two commissions brokered by the U.S. State Department and the Nations of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. Click here for further information.
American Hip-Hop Comes to Hanoi
May 14, 2010
American hiphop artists showcasing their skills in Hanoi
Three American hip-hop artists spent a week in Hanoi (May 10-14) conducting workshops in dance, rap & MCing and DJing for high school and university students in Hanoi and Haiphong. The visit culminated in a showcase performance with local professional hip-hoppers at Yamaha Town in Hanoi on May 14.
Each workshop included a lively multi-media presentation on hip-hop and the history of African American music, followed by master classes, one each for b-boys, rappers and emcees, and DJs. Vietnamese learners came away with better understanding of American culture in general and a broader knowledge of and improved skills in hip-hop in particular. The American hip-hop artists included Brandon Albright (Brother Peace – dancer), Chenits Pettigrew (Chen Lo – rapper & MC), and Kyle Clinton (DJ Scan – DJ). This program is part of the U.S. Cultural Envoy Program sponsored by the U.S. State Department. Similar activities take place in Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho from May 17-21. This program is part of the U.S. Embassy’s series of events to commemorate 15 years of U.S.-Vietnam relations.
Embassy Announces 15th Anniversary Logo Contest
May 18, 2010
The winner of the Logo Contest in celebrating 10th Anniversary of U.S.-Vietnam Relations
The U.S. Embassy Hanoi and the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City have announced a logo design contest to celebrate the 15th anniversary of normalization of U.S.-Vietnam relations. On the occasion of this important milestone, the Embassy is issuing a call for the creation of an original, dynamic anniversary logo honoring the strong ties and promising future shared by these two countries.
The theme of the contest is: “U.S. - Vietnam Friendship and Cooperation: A Shared Future.” The contest is open to the general public. Applicants may submit up to two entries by the deadline on Monday, June 7, 2010. The winner will receive $150 to be presented at a ceremony in their honor. Second prize winner will receive $75 and third prize receives $50. For more information about the contest: click here.
U.S. Signs Open Skies Cargo Agreement with Vietnam
May 18, 2010
U.S. Ambassador Michalak and Vietnam’s Minister of Transportation Ho Nghia Dung signing amendments to the U.S. –Vietnam Bilateral Air Transport Agreement.
On May 18, U.S. Ambassador Michalak and Vietnam’s Minister of Transportation, Hồ Nghĩa Dũng, signed amendments to the U.S.-Vietnam Bilateral Air Transport Agreement. The agreement expands the 2003 agreement by liberalizing air cargo services between the two countries. The Ambassador congratulated the Minister on Vietnam’s growing civil aviation sector and thanked him for his support and cooperation, not only for expanding aviation trade but also for improving Vietnam’s aviation safety and security. In addition to this agreement, the U.S. and Vietnam cooperate on a variety of technical assistance projects aimed at the advancement of Vietnam’s aviation system.
American Bar Association Receives License to Operate in Vietnam
May 21,2010
ABA Country Director Susan Goldman receives permit from PACCOM Director General Don Tuan Phong. Also pictured: Khuong Thu Thi Huong, Advisor to ABA Vietnam, Michael Orona, U.S. Embassy, & Mr. Le Khac Quang, VLA Official. (State)
On May 21, the People’s Aid Coordinating Committee (PACCOM) Director General Don Tuan Phong and Director of the North American Desk, Le Trung Hieu, presented Susan Goldman, American Bar Association (ABA) Country Director, with an official license to operate. The permit, which is valid for six months, allows the ABA to begin its long-awaited rule of law reform project and provides the Association the option of extending the project after six months. The informal ceremony was attended by Michael Orona, U.S. Embassy Political Officer and members of the Vietnamese Lawyers Association.
The Internet and You
May 25, 2010
Visiting Professor David Ortiz, Cascadia Community College (Bothell, WA) engages American Center patrons in a lively discussion about the internet (State Dept.)
On May 25, 54 American Center patrons participated in an engaging discussion on the internet led by visiting Professor David Ortiz of Cascadia Community College. (Bothell, WA). In his presentation, participants learned about the role of the internet in the globally connected world and about how networking sites bring together people and ideas. Professor Ortiz used guided discussion and analysis to give the attendees a deeper understanding of the subject.
Public Health and Clinical Research Presentation at Hanoi School of Public Health
May 26, 2010
Dr. Kagan speaks to lecturers from the Hanoi School of Public Health on the topic of Clinical Research and Public Health. (State)
On May 26, Dr. Jonathan Michael Kagan from the National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, Division of Clinical Research conducted a presentation on the relationship between Public Health and Clinical Research to 50 lecturers at the Hanoi School of Public Health. Although the subject was not new to the attendees, the talk provided them the U.S. Government’s definitions and perspectives of the two disciplines. The ensuing discussion demonstrated the audience’s interest in sharing their points of view with the speaker and learning more about American practices in the fields of public health and clinical research. Dr. Kagan is currently in Vietnam investigating challenges to Clinical Research in this country.
Non-immigrant Visa Application Fees Increase June 4
May 27, 2010
On June 4, the Department of State will increase the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees to meet the increasing cost of processing nonimmigrant visas (NIVs). The new fee schedule will affect the majority of applicants (Tourist, short-term business/ conference, crew/ transit, and student/ exchange - B-1/B-2, C1/D, F, and J visa applicants) who will see their fee increase to $140. In addition, the new MRV fee for H, L, O, P, Q and R visas (the petition-based visas) will be $150. The new MRV fee for E visas is $390, and K visas is $350. These changes will go into effect for all visa interviews scheduled June 4th, 2010 or later. For more information, click here.
U.S. Higher Education Presentation at Thang Long University
May 27, 2010
Public Affairs Officer David Moyer speaks to students at Thang Long University on the topic of Higher Education in the U.S.
On May 27, Public Affairs Officer, David Moyer conducted an informational presentation on higher learning opportunities in the United States at Thang Long University in Hanoi. Participants of the presentation were informed of programs currently active in Vietnam that send students to the U.S such as the Fulbright Scholarships and the Vietnam Education Fund. They were also made aware of the plethora of educational establishments available to choose from in the United States. In the follow-on discussion, Mr. Moyer provided information about resources such as EducationUSA, an organization that offers free educational counseling for students interested in study in the U.S.
Gershwin Concerts to Celebrate 15th Anniversary
May 28, 2010
On June 5 & 6, the U.S. Embassy Hanoi and the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra will host two nights of concerts at the Hanoi Opera House as part of the bilateral activities to celebrate 15 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam.
Featuring music by American composer George Gershwin, the concerts will be conducted by David Alan Miller and will include performances by pianist Kevin Cole, who are both from the Albany Symphony Orchestra, New York. Concert tickets are free, but those interested must obtain a ticket in advance. For more information click here.
Embassy Outreach to Central Highlands
June 4, 2010
Political Officer Christian Marchant with students from Central Highlands University.
From May 31 to June 4, Political Officer Christian Marchant travelled to the Central Highland provinces of Dak Lak, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum to meet with regional and provincial officials, religious leaders, leading corporations, university students as well as tour two USAID funded projects.
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| Political Officer Christian Marchant with USAID Cocoa project beneficiary H’Bim. |
In meetings with local and regional officials he discussed pressing bilateral issues and regional economic development. He also met with students at Central Highlands University where he presented a speech on the fifteenth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam and answered questions about college life in the U.S. Mr. Marchant also toured a USAID funded cocoa project that trains and assists ethnic minorities and impoverished locals to make a better life for themselves through cocoa farming.
15th Anniversary Concerts Delight Audiences
June 6, 2010
David Alan Miller of the Albany Symphony Orchestra (NY) conducts the Vietnamese National Symphony Orchestra in a 15th Anniversary Concert in Hanoi.
On June 5 & 6, Hanoi audiences were treated to two nights of American music at the city’s historic Opera House. The concerts, hosted by the U.S. Embassy Hanoi and the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra, were part of a series of commemorative cultural, academic and official events being held throughout the year to celebrate 15 years of United States-Vietnam relations. Featuring music by American composer George Gershwin, the concerts were conducted by David Alan Miller and included performances by pianist Kevin Cole, both from the Albany Symphony Orchestra, New York. Through their expert performances and commentary, Miller and Cole shared with Vietnamese audiences Gershwin’s important place in America’s musical heritage. In a special gesture of friendship, the orchestra surprised concert-goers by playing Lý Hoài Nam, one of the most popular Vietnamese folk songs. U.S. Ambassador Michael Michalak and Dr. Nguyen Van Tinh of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism made opening remarks to the audience, emphasizing the 15th anniversary and highlighting the ever expanding and deepening relations between the two countries.
American Ways: Understanding Cultural Traits and Behavior
June 9, 2010
VEF Program Officer Sandarshi Gunawardena presents information about understanding American culture to an audience at the American Center in Hanoi.
On June 9, Vietnam Education Foundation Program Officer, Sandarshi Gunawardena, spoke to an American Center audience on the topic of American culture and cultural traits. 87 attendees learned about the meaning of culture and how it defines a person as well as how that person views the world. She engaged the audience in an activity to define their own cultural traits before she spoke about and contrasted them with some American cultural traits.
LMI Conference Targets Transnational Cooperation
June 17, 2010
Rear Admiral Timothy Ziemer (USN, Retired), U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator, delivers the keynote speech at the Lower Mekong Initiative Infectious Diseases Conference in Hanoi.
On June 17th, Rear Admiral Timothy Ziemer (USN, Retired), U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator, delivered the keynote speech at the Lower Mekong Initiative Infectious Diseases Conference. The two-day meeting held in Hanoi brought together health officials from the Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam to discuss transnational cooperation to respond to infectious disease threats.
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| Group photo of participants at the Lower Mekong Initiative Infectious Diseases Conference in Hanoi, June 17-18, 2010. |
USAID Provides Support for National Disability Law
June 17, 2010
On June 17, the National Assembly of Vietnam enacted the country's first comprehensive national law guaranteeing the rights of people with disabilities. The new law mandates equal participation in society for people with disabilities. Drafted with the support of USAID technical assistance, the law is expected to have a direct impact on the growth of Vietnam's economy, as inclusive policies expand opportunities for Vietnamese with disabilities to be productive and achieve economic independence. The National Disability Law is the culmination of an intensive effort of more than a decade to develop a legal framework for an inclusive society where people with disabilities have access to the programs and supports necessary for their full participation. (Full story)
15th Anniversary Logo Unveiled
June 29, 2010
In a press conference on June 29th, U.S. Ambassador Michalak unveiled the winner of the 15th Anniversary of U.S. – Vietnam Relations Logo Contest. The logo, created by Nguyễn Trần Dương of Hanoi, features a flying kite composed of American and Vietnamese flags. Mr. Dương wrote that his logo represents “the two nations in a positively ascending relationship”.
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| Ambassador Michalak congratulates Nguyễn Trần Dương’s father, mother and brother on the winning logo design. |
The winning logo was chosen from a total of 108 submissions and will be used on materials related to the anniversary. Mr. Dương’s family accepted the prizes on his behalf at a ceremony honoring the contest winners at the American Center just prior to the press conference. Mr. Dương was unable to attend the ceremony as he is currently in the U.S. on business. The first runner up was a logo design by Trần Văn Hoàng Dũng and the second runner up was submitted by Trần Duy Thắng.
Debate is Great at the American Center
June 16, 2010
Public Affairs Staff, Sean Donovan explains debate rules to participants at the Debate Club.
On June 16th, the American Center introduced a new regular Wednesday afternoon feature: the Debate Club. The Club attracts students who are interested in developing a host of important skills including critical thinking, fact finding, analysis and public speaking. These programs help students learn about the way to formulate well-prepared arguments with team members and dispute topics using internationally accepted debating rules. In the process, participants improve their English speaking skills and have fun.
U.S. and Vietnam Sign Megaports Agreement
July 2, 2010
Vice Minister of Finance Do Hoang Anh Tuan and U.S. Ambassador Michael Michalak sign the Megaports Memorandum of Understanding, July 2, 2010.
The United States and Vietnam signed an agreement in Hanoi on July 2 to begin a cooperative effort to deter, detect and interdict illicit smuggling of nuclear and other radioactive material. The agreement paves the way for the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) to work with the Ministry of Finance’s General Department of Customs and other government ministries in Vietnam to install radiation detection equipment and an associated communications system at the port of Cai Mep in the province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau.
"The Megaports Initiative is a critical part of the United States' effort to implement our commitment to securing vulnerable nuclear material and keep it out of the hands of terrorists, smugglers and proliferators," said U.S. Ambassador Michalak. "Our partnership will facilitate international trade, improve security and create jobs for both Vietnam and the U.S. It will also help ensure the security of the international maritime trading system and enhance the reputation of Vietnam ports as some of the safest and most secure ports in Asia."
In addition to the work at Cai Mep, NNSA and the Ministry of Finance’s General Department of Customs may collaborate on installing radiation detection equipment at other ports in Vietnam in the future. NNSA will also train Vietnamese officials on the use of the equipment and provide for maintenance of the equipment.
Senator Webb Visits Vietnam
July 5, 2010
Senator Jim Webb gives the keynote address at a symposium in Hanoi commemorating 15 years of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Vietnam.
During the week of July 5th, Senator Jim Webb (VA) visited Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho. Senator Webb traveled to Vietnam to meet with senior government officials and to give the keynote address at a symposium sponsored by the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam and Texas Tech University’s Vietnam Center commemorating the 15th anniversary of normalization of diplomatic relations between the two nations. In Hanoi, Senator Webb met with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, Minister Chairman of the Office of the Government Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Cao Duc Phat, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Duc Kien, Deputy Defense Minister General Nguyen Chi Vinh and Deputy Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh. In Can Tho, Senator Webb met with regional and local officials and toured the Mekong River Delta. While in Saigon, Senator Webb met with the rector of HCMC University of Technology, HCMC People's Committee Chairman Le Hoang Quan, and attended the Independence Day Reception at the Consulate.
Harkin Delegation Focuses on Labor and Trade
July 7, 2010
United States Senator Tom Harkin meets with Vietnamese Prime Minister Dung in Hanoi.
United States Senators Tom Harkin (IA), Bernard Sanders (VT) and Al Franken (MN) visited Hanoi on July 7th. Following on earlier stops in Ho Chi Minh City to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Senator Harkin’s investigation of the Con Son Island “tiger cages,” and in Danang to visit USAID-funded disability rehabilitation and Agent Orange remediation projects, in Hanoi the delegation met on a wide range of labor and trade issues. The group met with Prime Minister Dung and the Standing Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam’s Central Committee Secretariat, Vietnam’s National Assembly, Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs, and the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor. In their meetings, the delegation affirmed the importance of improved labor laws and worker rights to future trade agreements, and shared their desire to increase U.S. support for disability rehabilitation and Agent Orange remediation projects in Vietnam.
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| Harkin Delegation meets with the Vietnamese National Assembly. |
U.S. – Vietnam Relations Discussed at the American Center
July 9, 2010
Professor Vu speaks at the American Center on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of U.S.-Vietnam relations.
On July 9th, the American Center of the U.S. Embassy Hanoi held a special event to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Vietnam and U.S. relations titled: "U.S-Vietnam Relations Over the Past 15 Years". Professor Tuong Vu from the Department of Political Science at the University of Oregon gave a presentation on the history of the harmonious cooperation between the U.S. and Vietnam over the past 15 years. The audience of 65, together with Prof. Vu, had an enthusiastic discussion in which they expressed different points of view on the relations of the two countries. The discussion emphasized the positive aspects of U.S - Vietnam relations and Professor Vu’s belief that the two nations would continue to maintain and nurture their friendly relationship.
Immigration Reform Event at the American Center
July 7, 2010
Consular Chief Bill Weissman answers a question about immigration from the audience.
On July 7, the American Center held a special event focused on President Obama’s recent speech on immigration reform. 45 participants watched 11 minutes of the speech, after which, Consular Chief Bill Weissman provided some context and explanation of the issues to the group. Following his remarks, Vong Chao, an American citizen who immigrated to the U.S. from Laos spoke about her own experience as an immigrant in America. After Bill and Vong spoke, the audience had several questions for them which covered among other things the positives and negatives of immigration in the U.S.
15th Anniversary U.S. – Vietnam Relations English Writing Contest Winners Announced
July 12, 2010
Grand Prize winner Nguyen Quoc Phuong reads the winning essay from the 15th Anniversary of U.S.- Vietnam Relations English Writing Contest.
On July 12, 65 people gathered at the American Center to learn the names of the winners of the 15th Anniversary of U.S. –Vietnam Relations English Writing Contest. Grand Prize winner Nguyen Quoc Phuong of Foreign Trade University had his essay chosen from 36 eligible entries by a panel of 3 in-house judges. This ceremony was held on the actual anniversary day and was held in conjunction with an American Center Open House featuring games, anniversary prizes and refreshments. The first runner up of the Writing Contest was Trinh Thi Hai Yen of National Economics University and the second runner up was Huong Le of Foreign Trade University. Winners received cash prizes as well as gift books and a certificate signed by the Ambassador.
Academic Symposium Looks at U.S. – Vietnam Relations
July 8, 2010
15th Anniversary of U.S. – Vietnam Relations Symposium Speakers: L to R: Ambassador Michalak, Senator Jim Webb, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh and DAV Director Duong Van Quang.
On July 8 and 9, the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, together with the Vietnam Center at Texas Tech University, organized a two-day symposium entitled, “United States-Vietnam Relations: Toward a Brighter Future.” The symposium was attended by senior officials, former ambassadors and prominent scholars on both sides who have played major roles in bringing the two countries closer together. U.S. Senator Jim Webb and Vietnamese Standing Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh delivered keynote speeches at the conference during which participants discussed different aspects of U.S.-Vietnam relations and how to continue strengthening them. The conference was held with the support of the U.S. Embassy Hanoi in commemoration of 15 years of bilateral relations.
Youth Advocacy and Sustainable Development
July 30, 2010
On July 30, the American Club held a special event on U.S. youth advocacy and sustainable development. Pickering Fellow Danielle Maniscalco provided insight on what sustainable development means to U.S. youth, the importance of effective youth organization, and examples of how youth organize to promote change in the U.S. Many of the students shared their knowledge of sustainable development, their perspective of the environmental challenges in Vietnam, and what they thought youth in Vietnam could do to advance sustainable development. The discussion lasted for over 30 minutes and focused on resources available to Vietnamese youth and the importance of building awareness of sustainable development issues among students in Vietnam.
Challenges Facing Asians Coming to the United States
August 4, 2010
Professor John Baker talks to students about life in the United States at the American Center.
On August 4, Professor John Baker from Louisiana State University presented the topic “Challenges Facing Asians Coming to the United States" in the American Center, gathering an audience of 65 Vietnamese students. Professor Baker introduced several topics to think about before coming to the United States, such as how to deal with Asian traditions while living in modern America, how to handle different business and social environments, and concluded the event by talking about academic expectations in high schools and universities in the U.S.
The Political, Social and Economic Effects of Health Care Reform
August 4, 2010
On August 4, Professor John Baker of Louisiana State University gave a lecture at the Vietnam Institute of American Studies on the topic of "Political, Social and Economic Effects of Health Care Reform.” The audience was comprised of 35 researchers, professors and lecturers from different universities and research institutes in Vietnam. Professor Baker first provided a brief overview of the evolution of health care in the U.S. and described how a multitude of factors have led to serious systemic problems. Reviewing the passage of President Obama’s health care bill, Mr. Baker explained the pending federal court challenges that it may face. In his conclusion, Professor Baker emphasized that the issue of health care reform demonstrates how the U.S. Constitution shapes the social, political and economic dimensions of all significant legislation.
Seventh Fleet Kicks Off Training Activities With Vietnamese Navy
August 8, 2010
U.S. Ambassador Michalak and senior Vietnamese military officers observe take-offs and landings aboard the USS George Washington aircraft carrier.
The U.S. 7th Fleet kicked off a weeklong series of naval engagement activities with the Vietnam People's Navy on August 8 to commemorate the 15th anniversary of normalization of relations between the United States and Vietnam. The activities are centered around non-combatant training, such as in the area of search and rescue. Friendship-building events included medical and dental civic action projects, as well as sporting events. On August 8, a group of Vietnamese government and military leaders flew from the city of Da Nang to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) to meet with U.S. Navy leadership and observe the strike group as it operates in the South China Sea. "This is indicative of the increasingly closer ties between the U.S. and Vietnam,” said Rear Adm. Ron Horton, commander, Task Force 73 and commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific. "Exchanges like this are vital for our navies to gain a greater understanding of one another, and build important relationships for the future."
USS John S. McCain Begins Milestone Visit to Vietnam to Commemorate Relations
August 10, 2010
Crew members of the USS John S McCain destroyer share search and rescue techniques with Vietnamese Navy officers.
The guided missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56)
arrived at the pier in Da Nang on August 10, marking the first time the ship has
visited Vietnam. The visit, commemorating the 15th anniversary of
the normalization of relations between the two countries, also began the
first-ever military training exchanges between the U.S. and Vietnamese Peoples
Navy. “This is a historic event for USS John S. McCain,” said Cmdr. Jeffrey
Kim, John S. McCain’s commanding officer. “For this ship and her crew, to be
able to make our first visit to Vietnam, especially during this landmark event
is truly an honor,” he added. During the visit, the ship’s crewmembers will
share their experiences conducting sea rescue missions and containing navel
emergencies. They will also play sports with the city’s students and soldiers
of Naval Zone C, conduct humanitarian health check-ups and administer treatments
at Son Tra district’s health clinic and other activities.
Summer Camp for Disadvantaged Students
August 16, 2010
Access Summer Camp 2010 participants cheer during an icebreaker activity.
From August 13-16, recipients of the English Access Microscholarship Program participated in a summer camp organized by the U.S. Embassy Hanoi. Held on Cat Ba Island, Access Summer Camp 2010 brought together 16 current participants of the English Access Microscholarship Program for a series of academic workshops designed to develop the students’ English skills, social skills and volunteerism. Also participating in the summer camp were alumni of other U.S. Government sponsored exchange programs including university graduates from the U.S. who recently arrived in Vietnam under the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program. Summer Camp participants gained an improved understanding of American English pronunciation and American cultural values as well as essential life skills and volunteerism.
The Access Microscholarship Program is a State Department program that offers long term English language training to disadvantaged students. The current group of Access students are talented and disadvantaged students from lower secondary schools in suburban districts of Hanoi who will receive intensive language training for two years. They are Vietnam’s first group of Access students as the scholarship program was inaugurated in Vietnam in 2009.
First U.S.-Vietnam Defense Policy Dialogue
August 17, 2010
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Robert Scher and Vice Minister of Defense Nguyen Chi Vinh hold a press conference following the inaugural Defense Policy Dialogue.
On August 17, the U.S. and Vietnam held the inaugural Defense Policy Dialogue in Hanoi. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Robert Scher was the senior U.S. representative and Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh, Vice Minister of Defense, was the Senior Vietnamese People’s Army representative. The open and productive dialogue was the outcome of an agreement between U.S. Secretary of Defense Gates and Vietnam’s Minister of National Defense Thanh to establish a senior-level forum to exchange strategic perspectives on bilateral, regional and global defense and security issues of mutual interest. Held on the 15th Anniversary of normalization of U.S.-Vietnam diplomatic relations, the dialogue represents a significant and historic step in the two countries’ increasingly robust defense relationship. In addition to discussing war legacy issues such as soldiers missing in action, unexploded ordnance and Agent Orange, the senior defense leaders also discussed ways in which the two countries could better cooperate on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, search and rescue, international peacekeeping operations and maritime security.
USAID Supports IPR Enforcement Website in Vietnam
August 18, 2010
Confetti showers Ambassador Michalak after pressing the button to launch Vietnam's first IPR enforcement website.
On August 18, U.S. Ambassador Michael Michalak joined Deputy Ministry of Science and Technology Nguyen Quan to launch a website about intellectual property rights in Vietnam. The portal, http://thanhtra.most.gov.vn in Vietnamese and http://iprenforcement.most.gov.vn in English, was created with support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The cases shared on the website can be used by enforcement agencies to determine if a violator has repeated the same infringement in more than one locality, which is a condition for tougher penalties and criminal charges. According to Ambassador Michalak, information on the web portal explaining the enforcement and intellectual property rights code, which codifies over a thousand relevant provisions in more than 100 legal documents into a single code, "will provide a practical guide on enforcement in Vietnam." The web portal also serves as a common platform for enforcement agencies and intellectual property rights holders to share their experiences. Ambassador Michalak noted that the website launch highlighted the Ministry of Science and Technology's "commitment to enforcement of intellectual property rights."
With the conclusion of the U.S.-Vietnam Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and Vietnam's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), the country's Intellectual Property Law and the Criminal Code have been revised to criminalize various violations. These legal improvements have helped bring Vietnam's legal framework closer to international best practices and WTO and BTA commitments.
Higher Engineering Education Program Announced
August 24, 2010
USAID launches a higher engineering education program with Intel and Arizona State University at a signing ceremony on August 24, 2010.
On August 24, the U.S. government joined forces with American universities and the private sector in efforts to enhance the quality of engineering education at Vietnam’s top technical universities. In collaboration with the Government of Vietnam, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is working with Arizona State University, Portland State University, and Intel Corporation as part of the new Higher Engineering Education Alliance Program valued at $2.5 million. Intel’s anticipated contribution to the program totals $1.5 million. “This program will result in a more highly educated and motivated faculty using cutting edge curricula,” said U.S. Ambassador Michael W. Michalak. “They will train bright and successful engineers who will help Vietnam reach its rightful place in the global economy.” The three-year public-private partnership will work closely with the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and technical universities in Vietnam to advance their electrical and mechanical engineering curricula and instruction leading to a highly-skilled technical workforce to strengthen the emerging high-tech manufacturing in Vietnam. Click here for more information.
Business Speaker Brings Local Entrepreneurs to American Center
August 24, 2010
Author and business thinker, Tad Waddington presents to the business community at the American Center.
On August 24, the U.S. Embassy’s American Center in partnership with Thai Ha Books and Hanoi Young Business Association presented author, business thinker and international speaker Tad Waddington. The 2 ½ hour presentation drew 115 attendees representing the Hanoi business community. At the event, Mr. Waddington shared lessons and insights from his book: Lasting Contribution: How to Think, Act and Plan to Accomplish Meaningful Work which has been recently translated into Vietnamese by Thai Ha Books.
U.S. Speaker on Reproductive & Sexual Health Care for Women
August 25, 2010
Dr. Jane Ann Dimer speaks at the “Reproductive & Sexual Health Care for Women” workshop in Hanoi.
On August 24-25, the U.S. Embassy Hanoi, in cooperation with the Vietnamese Institute for Reproductive & Family Health, organized a workshop titled “Reproductive & Sexual Health Care for Women” at La Thanh Hotel, Hanoi. The speaker, Dr. Jane Ann Dimer, from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine presented information on issues such as reproductive and sexual health care, family planning and domestic violence. Included among the more than 80 participants of the workshop were health practitioners from obstetrics and gynecology hospitals in Hanoi and nearby provinces, NGO workers focusing on women’s health, and reporters from local newspapers and television stations.
U.S. Embassy Supports ASEAN Youth Leadership Community Service Project
August 30, 2010
Acting Public Affairs Officer David Moyer speaks to 2009 ASEAN Youth Leadership participants.
On August 30, a group of Vietnamese high school students who participated in the 2009 ASEAN Youth Leadership Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, organized a website launch ceremony during which they announced the photo contest “For Future Smile”. The website, http://nucuoichoem.org and the photo contest were created to enhance the community’s awareness of cancer and to raise funds to support Vietnamese children affected by the disease.
The ASEAN Youth Leadership Program is designed to promote high-quality leadership, civic activism and responsibility within ASEAN countries’ future leaders. In his opening remarks, Acting Public Affairs Officer, David Moyer congratulated the students on their project and encouraged them to continue their efforts.
Humphrey Fellow Lecture on Global Financial Crisis
August 20, 2010
Dr. Can Van Luc speaks about the global financial crisis at U.S. Embassy Hanoi’s American Center.
On August 20, Humphrey Fellow, Dr. Can Van Luc presented “Global Economic Crisis and its Implications for Vietnam” at the U.S. Embassy Hanoi. More than 40 Vietnamese students, economic journalists and financial professionals attended the presentation in which Dr. Luc discussed the causes and major developments of the crisis as well as responses by different countries around the globe. He also spelled out the crisis’ implications for Vietnamese government and businesses. Dr. Luc was a Humphrey Fellow in banking and finance at the University of Boston in 2007-08, after which he became a senior fellow at Harvard Kennedy School and visiting scholar at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington D.C and the Federal Reserve Bank in Boston. He is currently Senior Advisor to the Chairman of the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV).
Basics of the U.S. Education System
August 31, 2010
Christopher Schwab provides an overview of the U.S. education system to students at the American Center.
On August 31, Mr. Christopher Schwab of the U.S. State Department presented the topic “Basics of the U.S. Education System” at the American Center. In his presentation, Mr. Schwab provided 68 university students an overview of the U.S. educational system. He covered topics such as curricular structure, grading policy, and standardized testing from the primary to university levels. Students raised many questions during the Q&A session regarding graduate programs and social life at universities. Mr. Schwab included some of his own school experiences in the presentation and encouraged audience members to find out more about studying in the U.S. at the American Center.