Medary.com

Say what you will about the Americans, but we're pretty good at turning former bitter enemies into some of our closest allies.

Vietnam may be taking the first steps down that path, as Fred Stakelbeck observes at TCS Daily:

What was unthinkable only a decade ago has now become reality. The U.S. and Vietnam realize that beyond the shadows of mistrust and suspicion, lie similar aspirations and values which can be used for their mutual benefit. Vietnam is determined to take its place among other Asian countries in the global economy, and views the U.S. as a key partner that can help it meet its long-term objectives. New geopolitical realities, most notably China's growing influence in Southeast Asia and the creation of regional alliances such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), will also continue to bring both countries closer together.

The continuing growth of China's power makes a more favorable strategic relationship between the U.S. and Vietnam desirable for both sides--possibly moreso for Vietnam than for America.