Vietnam: History

France begins its colonial rule in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh announces Vietnam's independence from France. 

The U.S. ends its 30-year trade embargo with Vietnam.

Vietnam and U.S. restore full diplomatic relations. Vietnam becomes full member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The U.S. and Vietnam begin a trade agreement, which normalizes trade between the two countries. 

Vietnam joins the World Trade Organization. Also, the government approves a $33 billion plan to build a high-speed rail link between the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

After years of stagnation, Vietnam's economy grows by 5.14% in the first three quarters of the year.