National Assembly Vice Chairman Tran Quang Phuong welcomed Governor Fukuda Tomikazu of Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture in a meeting that symbolizes the growing partnership between the two nations, especially in the context of their 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

According to Vietnam News Agency, Vice Chairman Phuong expressed appreciation for Governor Fukuda’s visit, noting its significance during the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations. He highlighted the flourishing extensive strategic partnership between the two countries, with economic collaboration being a particularly strong aspect. Phuong thanked Japan for its adjusted Official Development Assistance (ODA) program for Vietnam and the increased loans for high-tech projects in the country.

He also acknowledged the support extended by Governor Fukuda and other Tochigi leaders to the Vietnamese community in the prefecture, including incentives encouraging local businesses to invest and expand operations in Vietnam. The NA Vice Chairman conveyed his hopes for more delegation exchanges and broader cooperation with Vietnamese localities. He emphasized the potential for enhanced collaboration in education and training, particularly in vocational training, by welcoming more Vietnamese interns and workers.

Highlighting the existing cooperation between Tochigi and Vietnam’s northern province of Vinh Phuc, Phuong expressed confidence that this relationship would become a prominent example of the Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership. Governor Fukuda, in response, affirmed Vietnam’s importance in Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy and expressed optimism for a strengthened bilateral relationship in the future.