US Vietnam relations Biden

Despite the growing depth and breadth of strategic ties between the two countries, Washington ranks surprisingly low in Hanoi's hierarchy of diplomatic designations.

Reconciliation has happened through different measures and in different forms, ranging from efforts to heal wartime wounds to moves aimed at building mutual trust and respect.

The challenge for Washington is that countries like Vietnam are reluctant to sacrifice their relations with either China or the United States.

The $625 million project, and a planned new embassy building in Hanoi, symbolizes Washington's increased attention to Southeast Asia.

The visit highlighted both the overlaps and the misalignments between the U.S. and Southeast Asian governments.

Kamala Harris' visits to Singapore and Vietnam are intended to send the message that "America is back." But will the message stick?

Every step Vietnam takes toward the United States is accompanied by anxious glances in the direction of Beijing.

Vietnam came under mounting U.S. pressure under the Trump administration over the alleged devaluation of its currency.

Relations are set to continue on their upward trajectory, though there remain certain areas of concern.