10-6-2024 (WASHINGTON) President Joe Biden has announced his intention to nominate Kin Moy, a distinguished career diplomat, as the next United States ambassador to Vietnam. The White House statement highlights Moy’s extensive experience in the Foreign Service, positioning him as a seasoned candidate for this pivotal role.
Kin Moy, currently serving as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, brings a wealth of diplomatic expertise to the table. As a member of the Senior Foreign Service with the rank of Career Minister, Moy’s appointment underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam, a key ally in the region.
Born in Hong Kong, China, in 1966, Moy traces his Chinese heritage to Taishan City, Guangdong Province. A third-generation Chinese-American, he is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, making him a valuable asset in navigating the intricate cultural and linguistic landscapes of the region.
Pending approval by the Senate, Moy will succeed the current ambassador, Marc Knapper, and become the first Asian-American ambassador to Vietnam from the United States, a historic milestone in the bilateral relationship.
Moy’s extensive diplomatic career has prepared him well for this pivotal role. He has held notable positions such as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of Intelligence and Research, chief of mission of the American Institute in Taiwan, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for mainland China, Mongolia, and Taiwan. His experience spans various U.S. diplomatic posts, including Beijing in China, Seoul in South Korea, and the Consulate in Busan.
Educated at the University of Minnesota and Columbia University, Moy’s linguistic proficiency in Mandarin and Cantonese further enhances his ability to navigate the complexities of regional diplomacy effectively.
If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Kin Moy will become the ninth U.S. ambassador to Vietnam since the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1995. His appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the United States seeks to deepen its strategic partnership with Vietnam in the face of evolving regional dynamics.
Moy’s predecessor, Marc Knapper, played a pivotal role in elevating the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during President Biden’s visit to Hanoi in September 2023.
