Thorne said his visit is part of a US programme to assist ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, to promote business and innovation.
He expressed his appreciation for the southern city’s support for the construction of a Fulbright University here.
He said he would ask President Barack Obama to visit the southern region and Ho Chi Minh City as part of his trip to Vietnam in May.
Ho Chi Minh City welcomes Obama’s upcoming visit, Secretary of the municipal Party Committee Dinh La Thang said, taking note of growing relations between the two nations – particularly after a visit to the US by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong in July last year.
Ho Chi Minh City pays due attention to co-operation with US localities and enterprises, he added.
According to Thang, the southern hub is home to more than 266,000 companies, which accounts for half of all Vietnam businesses. Aiming to double the number by 2020, local authorities have committed to promoting links in innovation and creativity while supporting start-ups, especially that of young people.
