Tokyo – Vietnam and Japan issued a joint statement on November 27, announcing the elevation of their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This significant development occurred during the official visit of Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and his spouse to Japan.
According to Vietnam News Agency, President Thuong and Prime Minister Kishida Fumio confirmed the adoption of the ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World’ during their summit meeting. This decision underlines the commitment of both nations to enhance cooperation and expand their relationship to new areas. The visit, which included meetings with Japan’s Emperor and Empress and various high-level engagements, coincides with the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations.
The leaders emphasized the fundamental principles guiding the Japan-Vietnam relationship, including respect for the United Nations Charter, adherence to international law, and mutual respect for each country’s political systems, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The two leaders reviewed the progress of Japan-Vietnam relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1973, noting significant growth in areas such as economy, trade, investment, social development, defense and security, and people-to-people exchange. They acknowledged Japan as one of Vietnam’s most important economic partners, with Japan being Vietnam’s largest provider of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and a key partner in labor cooperation, investment, tourism, and trade.
President Thuong expressed gratitude for Japan’s contributions to Vietnam’s socio-economic development, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The two leaders also lauded the deepened people-to-people exchanges, with the Vietnamese community in Japan and the Japanese community in Vietnam significantly contributing to both countries’ socio-economic development.
Cultural exchange and tourism cooperation between the two countries were also highlighted, with increased scope and popularity of Vietnamese and Japanese festivals fostering mutual understanding and social bonds.
The two leaders affirmed their shared view of the bilateral cooperation’s contribution to peace and prosperity not only in their respective countries but also in Asia and the world. They committed to maintaining high-level engagement and enhancing exchanges across various channels.
In terms of security and defense, the two leaders agreed to bolster cooperation, including in UN Peacekeeping operations, addressing war remnant issues, military medicine, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief. They also concurred on enhancing maritime security and safety cooperation.
Economic linkages and ensuring economic security were key points of discussion. Japan reaffirmed its support for Vietnam’s development of an independent, self-reliant economy and its industrialization and modernization goals. Both sides recognized the importance of transparent, diverse, secure, sustainable, and reliable supply chains.
Human resources development, cultural and tourism exchanges, and interregional cooperation were also emphasized as areas for further collaboration. The leaders acknowledged the positive impact of Vietnamese Technical Intern Trainees and workers in Japan and committed to creating favorable conditions for their integration into Japanese society.
The two leaders discussed regional and international issues, reaffirming the importance of ASEAN unity and centrality and expressing support for the United Nations, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and other regional mechanisms. They also expressed concerns over regional security issues, including the situation in the South China Sea and the Korean Peninsula.
In conclusion, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in various fields, including sustainable development, climate change, green growth, and digital transformation. They emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation to achieve net zero emissions and transition to a circular economy.
President Thuong extended an invitation to Prime Minister Kishida to visit Vietnam, which was appreciated by the Japanese leader.