An Engaged Vietnam: Developing a U.S. Pacific Command Solution

Abstract

Abstract : Since opening diplomatic relations with Vietnam nearly twenty years ago, the United States and Vietnam have exercised measured and cautious bilateral security cooperation. During the same period, both nations influences within the Asia-Pacific region have grown substantially. Vietnam has developed a complex approach to its national security, focusing on economic growth and stability, which has been enabled primarily through expanding and strengthening regional and global relationships, to include with the United States. As the United States moves forward in its cooperative relationship with Vietnam, U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) is in a unique position to shape that relationship. This paper examines how USPACOM can implement a theater security cooperation plan with Vietnam that strengthens partnerships and enhances security preparedness throughout the region, improves the interoperability of Vietnamese forces with the U.S. and others in region, and effectively meets the demands of shared interests and shared threats while meeting standing directives and agreements.