Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel Unite to Bolster Disaster Readiness in Quang Ngai, Vietnam

Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel have joined forces for a mission stop in Vietnam aimed at bolstering disaster response preparedness and enhancing international cooperation. The mission, scheduled to run from August 19 through August 31, is set to make a significant impact.

In Quang Ngai, approximately 200 participants from multiple countries, including the Australian Defense Force, British Armed Forces, Chile, Japan, and the U.S. Armed Forces, will be involved. The U.S. Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Susan Burns, will attend the opening ceremony on August 20.

“During this year’s Pacific Partnership and Pacific Angel mission, we underscore the enduring friendship propelling the U.S.-Vietnam relationship forward in disaster response, medicine, and education,” said U.S. Consul General Burns. “Our shared past has laid a foundation for a brighter future for the next generation.”

The humanitarian mission encompasses a broad scope of activities. Medical professionals will engage in training sessions at hospitals and medical centers in Quang Ngai, focusing on mass casualty incidents, surgeries, public health, and infectious diseases. Additionally, U.S. and Vietnamese officials will discuss forest fire prevention, coastal erosion, and natural disaster management, supported by a site survey of the Nghia An anti-erosion embankment.

U.S. Navy Captain Daniel Keeler, PP24-2 mission commander, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “Our leaders view collaboration with governmental and non-governmental experts as crucial for enhancing the resilience of vulnerable communities through disaster preparedness initiatives. We aim to strengthen regional and global coordination on shared concerns.”

The mission also includes significant construction efforts. Renovations are planned at multiple local facilities such as Tinh Minh Kindergarten, Nghia Lo Medical Station, Tinh Khe Elementary School, and Tinh Khe Medical Station. These projects are intended to improve local infrastructure and community resilience. In addition, community engagement will be fostered through English language and music exchanges with local students, promoting cultural interaction and mutual understanding.

Major Bradley Emmett, PA24-3 mission commander, highlighted the mission’s broader goals. “We are committed to enhancing capacity, interoperability, and combined readiness with our partners in the Indo-Pacific. The relationships we build through these missions contribute to regional peace and stability.”

This mission represents a milestone in U.S.-Vietnam foreign affairs, reinforcing the bilateral relationship nearly a year after upgrading to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The program emphasizes Quang Ngai province’s dedication to global partnerships and disaster preparedness.