A Historic Milestone: The Return of US Properties and the Normalization of US-Vietnam Relations
In 2025, we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the United States and Vietnam. This historic turning point, following decades of conflict and estrangement after the Vietnam War, marked the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation and mutual respect between the two nations.
One often-overlooked yet critical step in this process was the formal return of US government properties in Vietnam and the acceptance of their return to US control. For over a year, I had the honor of leading the US side in negotiating the return of these properties — including former embassy buildings, consulate compounds, and other diplomatic facilities — which had been left behind since the fall of Saigon in 1975.
In 1995, as the first US diplomat assigned to Vietnam specifically to work on normalization, I helped establish the US Liaison Office in Hanoi including hiring all local staff and identification, training and planning for all requirements for an active diplomatic post representing US interests. This office served as the initial bridge of communication and cooperation, laying the groundwork for the eventual opening of a full-fledged US Embassy which I also led in planning and implementing.
AP News documents the signing ceremony marking the official return of all US properties by the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
The video clip shared here, by AP News (https://youtu.be/rvZXh9hu2NY?si=Pya0snb2FdL62ilN) documents a pivotal moment: the signing ceremony marking the official return of all US properties by the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This event was not merely symbolic; it was the final administrative step in a long and complex process of starting a new relationship. With this, both nations demonstrated their commitment to moving beyond the shadows of the past and towards a future of partnership which now helps both sides to work together in a plethora of fields of cooperation.
The return of these properties was significant on multiple levels. It honored diplomatic protocols, provided the US with functional facilities to re-establish its official presence, and, most importantly, it embodied the spirit of reconciliation that defined this new era in both countries’ linkages.
Soon after, the US Embassy in Hanoi was officially opened, representing a new era of dialogue, trade, and people-to-people exchanges that continue to flourish to this day.
As I reflect on this journey 30 years later, I am deeply proud to have been part of this historic process. The normalization of relations between Vietnam and the United States is a testament to what can be achieved through patience, diplomacy, and a shared vision for the future.
