The Hill News

Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) stressed the economic ties between the United States and Vietnam during a visit there last week.

"In the last 15 years, the relationships between the two countries have developed strongly, especially in trade and economic exchange," he said in an interview with VietnamNet.

"The US is Vietnam’s top export market," he added.

Still, Harkin identified problems with certain exports.

"There are some issues with fish, shrimp, etc.," he said. But he added that he thinks "everything will be fine," he continued.

"We have very good relations now. Many overseas Vietnamese have returned Vietnam to visit their families," he said.

He added that Vietnamese Americans are increasingly participating in business, health and the military services.