In an effort to fortify bilateral defence relations, Việt Nam and Japan have decided to intensify their cooperation in several strategic areas. These include military training, cybersecurity, and the development of the defence industry, as well as participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations and efforts aimed at post-war recovery. This accord was reached during a meeting in Hà Nội between Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, General Phan Văn Giang, and General Uchikura Hiroaki, Chief of Staff of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces.
General Giang articulated Việt Nam’s dedication to reinforcing consultation and dialogue mechanisms, enhancing collaboration among military branches, and advancing cooperation in sectors such as defence technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. He emphasized that defence relations have evolved into a crucial component of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. General Giang also underscored Japan’s contributions in areas such as personnel training, defence industry development, technology transfer, and initiatives for post-war recovery.
The Vietnamese minister expressed a desire for increased scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defence personnel, particularly in the fields of science, engineering, and technology. Meanwhile, General Uchikura affirmed Japan’s commitment to bolstering defence ties with Việt Nam, advocating for expanded cooperation in avenues like high-level exchanges, military education, cybersecurity, and healthcare services within the armed forces.
Japan continues to be a pivotal economic and strategic ally for Việt Nam, with robust collaboration extending across trade, investment, development assistance, and labour exchanges. The scope of defence cooperation between the two countries has notably widened, facilitated by regular policy dialogues and military consultations. Both nations have agreed to maintain close coordination to further bolster mutual trust, regional stability, and long-term strategic cooperation.