Vietnam and Japan have pledged to enhance their defence cooperation, focusing on several strategic domains such as military training, cybersecurity, and defence industry development. The two nations also aim to strengthen collaboration in United Nations peacekeeping operations and efforts for post-war recovery. This commitment was made during a meeting in Hanoi between Vietnam’s 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.
In their discussions, General Giang and General Uchikura explored ways to bolster bilateral defence relations and ensure the effective implementation of existing agreements. General Giang underscored Vietnam’s dedication to enhancing consultation and dialogue mechanisms, expanding military branch cooperation, and advancing collaboration in defence technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. He pointed out that defence relations are a vital component of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and Japan.
Highlighting Japan’s contributions, the Vietnamese minister praised their support in personnel training, defence industry development, technology transfer, and post-war recovery projects. He also advocated for increased scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defence personnel, particularly in science, engineering, and technology fields. This reflects the deepening ties between the two countries, with Japan being one of Vietnam’s key economic and strategic partners, supported by strong cooperation in trade, investment, development assistance, and labour exchanges.
General Uchikura reiterated Japan’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with Vietnam, expressing support for expanding cooperation in areas such as high-level exchanges, military education, cybersecurity, and healthcare services within the armed forces. The two sides agreed to continue their close coordination to enhance mutual trust, promote regional stability, and foster long-term strategic cooperation.