US President Barack Obama and his government recognise the importance of relations with Vietnam, a relationship that has been built on mutual respect and common interests, a US trade official has said.

Meeting with the press in Hanoi on November 15, US Under Secretary of International Trade, Francisco Sanchez, who is visiting Vietnam from November 13-16, said that this is his third visit to the country in the last 20 months.

The visit reveals the commitment of President Obama and the US Government to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries, especially in trade, he said.

The official went on to say that his tour to Indonesia and Vietnam marks the development of trade ties between the US and ASEAN countries.

It is also to promote long-lasting relationships and trade commitments by creating a forum to discuss economic cooperation prospects and a foundation for cooperation.

Representatives of some US groups and companies said the visit is to seek trade opportunities and boost investment in infrastructure projects relating to energy, including civil nuclear energy, aviation, environmental technology, architecture, construction and engineering.-VNA