Three decades of partnership: From humanitarian support to sustainable development

Minister Do Duc Duy acknowledged USAID’s valuable support during its more than three decades of operations in Vietnam. USAID-funded projects have been effectively implemented in key areas such as climate change adaptation, disaster prevention, sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and plastic waste reduction.

Minister Do Duc Duy meets USAID Mission Director Aler Grubbs and U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper on 8 July to mark over 30 years of Viet Nam–USAID cooperation

He noted that cooperation between Vietnam and the United States is entering a particularly positive phase, especially following the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the current context, as Vietnam advances its green transition and sustainable development, the partnership and support of the international community, including USAID, remain indispensable.

Mission Director Aler Grubbs highlighted notable achievements in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, such as the application of forest monitoring technology, conservation of rare species, camera-trap initiatives, and the issuance of Green List certifications for national parks. She stressed that the conclusion of certain USAID programmes does not mean the end of cooperation; rather, it opens the way for building on the legacy of bilateral achievements.

Minister Do Duc Duy expressed his hope that the U.S. Embassy and USAID will continue to mobilise American investors to participate in rural development projects, support vulnerable communities, and assist farmers in disadvantaged areas. Vietnam, he added, stands ready to share its experiences in green and circular agriculture and to learn from the United States’ advanced technologies and technical solutions.

Strengthening the foundation for future cooperation

The Minister proposed that Ambassador Marc Knapper further promote bilateral cooperation in digital agriculture, cross-border agri-forestry-fishery supply chains, support for lifting the EU’s “yellow card” on illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, expansion of environmental pollution reduction models, and the development of solar power and ocean plastic waste treatment initiatives.

According to Minister Do Duc Duy, Vietnam and the United States both have strengths in agriculture that complement rather than compete with each other, creating strong potential for mutually beneficial collaboration. Ambassador Knapper affirmed that, over the past 30 years, the two countries have made notable progress in economic growth, environmental management, education, assistance to vulnerable groups, and post-war recovery. These achievements form a solid basis for implementing effective cooperation programmes in the future.

The Minister also underlined that Vietnam has gradually overcome poverty, ensured national food security, and is now contributing resources to support countries in need, a gesture that reflects both gratitude and a commitment to global development.

Recognising contributions, nurturing long-term friendship

To acknowledge her outstanding contributions during her tenure in Vietnam, Minister Do Duc Duy presented the Medal for the Development of Agriculture and Environment, the Ministry’s highest honour, to Ms. Aler Grubbs, as well as to Ms. Anna Way, Director of the Climate Change, Energy and Environment Office at USAID Viet Nam.

Minister Do Duc Duy presented the Medal for the Development of Agriculture and Environment, the Ministry’s highest honour, to Ms. Aler Grubbs

The award was not only a personal tribute but also a gesture of appreciation to the entire USAID team for their more than three decades of partnership with Vietnam.

Minister Do Duc Duy affirmed that every cooperative effort by USAID or any international organisation towards Vietnam’s prosperity is valued and recognised. The Ministry will continue to expand joint initiatives to ensure that each investment and contribution brings tangible benefits, helping to build a modern, environmentally friendly agriculture sector capable of effectively adapting to climate change.

Minh Thao