U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Vietnam on Sunday, emphasizing reconciliation efforts from the Vietnam War as a cornerstone of the bilateral defense relationship.

During talks with Vietnamese Defense Minister Phan Van Giang, Hegseth returned wartime artifacts, part of broader postwar cooperation that also includes clearing unexploded ordnance, recovering missing service members, and cleaning up dioxin contamination.

The visit coincides with 30 years of diplomatic ties and two years since upgrading relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Vietnam’s highest diplomatic status, the AP has reported.

Experts say such legacy-focused cooperation builds trust and political cover for expanding defense relations, especially as Vietnam balances ties with other powers, including potential purchases of Russian fighter jets.

The visit underscores U.S. efforts to demonstrate long-term responsibility and strengthen ties with a vital but cautious regional partner.