CRWTC Welcomes The Ambassador of Vietnam To The United States

 

During a historical visit to the campus of Union College in Schenectady, New York, on March 28th, His Excellency, Nguyen Tam Chien, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United States made it clear that Vietnam was on the road to joining the global economic community and that entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) cannot come soon enough. "Vietnam is not a war" he exclaimed to the group of more than 60 business and civic leaders attending the luncheon event jointly presented by Union College and the Capital Region World Trade Center and sponsored by Whiteman Osterman & Hanna.

The signing of a historical Bilateral Trade Agreement with the United States in December 2001 was the first step on the path towards WTO accession. Ambassador Nguyen elaborated on the many changes now occuring in Vietnam including liberalized foreign investment environment that now provides for 100% foreign investment in Vietnam. He also pointed out that Vietnam is a poor country with a large portion of the economy still dependent upon agricultural products, including rice, Vietnam's major export.

Union College President Roger Hull and Schenectady County Community College President Gabriel Basil welcomed the Ambassador. Before departing, Schenectady County Manager, Kevin DeFebbo presented Ambassador Nguyen with the Schenectady County flag along with a Proclamation granting honorary citizenship.