PM hopes for Japan’s continued cooperation in pandemic combat

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Pham MinhChinh on June 15 hosted a reception for Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio, during which he suggested theJapanese government and relevant agencies continue to cooperate with Vietnam inthe fight against the pandemic.

The Vietnamese leader also wished for Japan’s support in the transfer of COVID-19 vaccine production technology to Vietnam.

He asked the diplomat to propose the Government andcompetent agencies of Japan encourage Japanese businesses to promote two-waytrade, especially creating favourable conditions for Vietnam’s exports such as agriculturaland seafood products and seasonal fruits to enter the Japanese market.

PM Chinh called on Japanese investors to continue investing in Vietnam,especially in infrastructure development and areas where Japan has strength andVietnam has potential.

According to the PM, there are about 450,000 Vietnamese people living, studying,and working in Japan. He expressed his hope that the Japanese Government wouldcreate conditions for them to have a safe and stable life in the country,contributing to promoting bilateral relations.

He suggested the Japanese side consider accepting Vietnamese interns,especially those with visas waiting for going to Japan; and resuming commercialflights soon when conditions permit.

The PM also hoped for the practical and effective implementation of economicagreements signed by the two sides.

For his part, Ambassador Takio conveyed amessage from Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide to PM Chinh, which announcedthe Japanese Government's decision to provide Vietnam with 1 million doses ofCOVID-19 vaccines, saying that this is a testament to the deep friendshipbetween Vietnam and Japan.

Japanese associations and 36 businesses in Vietnam have donated 39.2billion VND (over 1.7 million USD) to Vietnam’s COVID-19 vaccine fund, he said,adding that more donations will be made in the coming time

PM Chinh expressed his sincere thanks to the Prime Minister,Government and people of Japan for the decision, as well as valuable donationsfrom foreign associations and businesses in Vietnam, including those fromJapan, to support the country in the fight against COVID-19.

Takio affirmed the Japanese government's strong cooperation commitment withVietnam, saying that Vietnam is still the best investment destination forJapanese companies and investors.

He promised to immediately convey the message and suggestions of the Vietnameseleader to the Japanese Government and PM Suga Yoshihide./.

VNA