Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong (fifth from left), Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio (sixth from left), their spouses, and the two countries' officials at the welcome ceremony in Tokyo on November 27. (Photo: VNA)Followingthe ceremony, the talks between the two countries’ delegations took place underthe chair of President Thuong and PM Kishida.
Vietnam - Japan relationshave recorded strong progress in all spheres over the recent past. Delegation exchangesat all levels have been increased. Japan remains a leading economic partner ofVietnam. Cooperation between their localities have been unceasingly reinforced,with about 100 pairs of Vietnamese and Japanese localities setting up relationsso far.
Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Pham Quang Hieusaid that in 2023, the two countries have organised nearly 500 practical andmeaningful activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of theirdiplomatic ties, helping strengthen the friendship and mutual understandingbetween the people of the two countries.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam YamadaTakio noted the highlights of the 50th anniversary this year includethe trip to the Southeast Asian nation by Crown Prince Akishino and CrownPrincess Kiko of Japan, along with this time’s visit by President Thuong andhis spouse.
He said Japan views Vietnam as an important partnerduring the realisation of its “Free and open Indo-Pacific” target. Bilateral connectionshave been increasingly tightened not only politics andeconomy but also mutual understanding, which is based on their long-standinghistorical and cultural bonds.
The trip to Japan by President Thuong is anoccasion for the countries to herald a new development stage of their relationswhile building a framework for their ties in the next 50 years. It isalso a good chance for Vietnamese ministries, sectors, and localities toenhance multifaceted cooperation and friendship with Japan.
Given thesound development of the relations at present and with the aspirations anddetermination of the States and people of both countries, the extensivestrategic partnership holds new and promising development opportunities for Vietnam and Japan./.
VNA
