Tokyo – President Vo Van Thuong of Vietnam, along with his spouse and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation, was officially welcomed by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and his spouse in Tokyo on the late afternoon of November 27. This ceremony marked the beginning of President Thuong’s official visit to Japan.
According to Vietnam News Agency, this visit coincides with a year of significant bilateral engagement, as nearly 500 activities have been organized in 2023 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations. These events have played a crucial role in strengthening the friendship and understanding between the peoples of the two nations.
The talks between the Vietnamese and Japanese delegations, led by President Thuong and PM Kishida, followed the welcome ceremony. The Vietnam-Japan relationship has seen considerable progress in all areas recently, with an increase in delegation exchanges at all levels. Japan continues to be a leading economic partner for Vietnam, and cooperation between localities of the two countries has been continuously strengthened, with approximately 100 pairs of Vietnamese and Japanese localities establishing relations.
Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio highlighted the significance of the 50th anniversary celebrations this year, including visits by the Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko of Japan to Southeast Asia and President Thuong’s current visit to Japan. Ambassador Takio noted that Japan regards Vietnam as a crucial partner in achieving its ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ goal. The bilateral ties are not limited to politics and economy but also extend to cultural and historical connections, fostering mutual understanding.
President Thuong’s visit to Japan is seen as an opportunity to initiate a new stage in the development of bilateral relations and to create a framework for the next 50 years of ties. It also presents an excellent opportunity for Vietnamese ministries, sectors, and localities to boost multifaceted cooperation and friendship with Japan.
Given the current positive trajectory of their relations and the aspirations and determination of the states and people of both countries, the extensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan holds promising opportunities for new developments and deeper cooperation.