The visit is considered a landmark in the bilateral relationship between the two nations after over 40 years of diplomatic ties. Let’s take the time to review the friendship between Vietnam and Japan after the last 4 decades and the future for both nations.
Nhat Tan Bridge or the Japan-Vietnam Friendship Bridge - one of the world's three widest suspension spans, Terminal 2 at Noi Bai International Airport and the Ring Road 3, were all built with Official Development Assistance (ODA) and technical support from Japan. They have improved the capital’s infrastructure and are symbols of the friendship between the two nations.
Japan has become Vietnam’s largest donor of ODA over the past two decades. And Japan has committed a record 3 billion USD in ODA to the country this year, triple last year.
President Shimon Tokuyama, President, Association of Japanese Business Community in Vietnam, said: "There are currently 516 Japanese projects in Vietnam. We believe that this will grow. Compared to other countries, Vietnam has lower labour costs, and a stable political and social climate. With relations continuing to be fostered, Vietnam is going to be an attractive destination for Japanese investors".
In 2014, Vietnam-Japan ties were lifted to an ‘extensive strategic partnership’. From 2014 to the first half of this year, Japan has climbed from fourth to become the second largest investor in Vietnam.
Vietnam was the first destination in prime minister’s overseas trips after he took his office in 2013. This underlines Vietnam’s position in Japan’s foreign policy. Besides economics, both sides collaborate in culture, tourism and defence.
Vietnam and Japan see great potential still untapped in various sectors. And both sides are ambitious about popularising and bringing the relationship to the highest level of trust in the coming time.
