Present at the event were U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper, leaders of the Air Defense - Air Force Service and the Chemical Corps, and representatives from international organizations, agencies of the Ministry of National Defense (MND), and Dong Nai. 

leftcenterrightdel
Learning about the dioxin remediation process at the project site

In the first phase of the project, thanks to the strong direction of the MND and with the non-refundable aid from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), over 107 cubic meters of dioxin-contaminated soil have been excavated, surveyed, and monitored. A total of 13 hectares of contaminated land have been excavated and treated, and the design for the first phase of the thermal treatment technology for dioxin-contaminated soil has been completed.

During the inspection, having heard reports from and talking with relevant units, General Chien acknowledged and highly appreciated their achievements in carrying out the first phase and requested the units and contractors to pro-actively address difficulties and expedite the project’s progress. 

While implementing the project, strict adherence to technical procedures is required, particularly in ensuring safety for workers and environmental protection. Regular checks and monitoring must be conducted, with an emphasis on managing and utilizing investment funds effectively.

Earlier on the same day in Bien Hoa city, General Chien met with Marc Knapper, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, during which the Vietnamese deputy defense minister shared the losses the U.S. suffered due to the recent historic forest fires. He also affirmed that in 2024, the two countries made significant progress in settlement of war legacy in Vietnam and effectively carried out cooperation programs between Vietnam and the U.S. across various fields.

During the meeting, the Vietnamese defense leader and the U.S. diplomat discussed and agreed on plans on implementing several defense cooperation initiatives and key programs on war legacy settlement in 2025, including organizing exhibitions reviewing the efforts of settlement of consequences of bomb and dioxin in Vietnam and effectively carrying out dioxin remediation projects in the country.

Translated by Tran Hoai