Vietnam and Japan have reached an agreement to enhance their defense cooperation, focusing on key strategic areas such as military training, cybersecurity, and the development of the defense industry. Additionally, both nations are set to collaborate on United Nations peacekeeping missions and post-war recovery efforts. This decision 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.
During their discussions, General Giang expressed Vietnam’s dedication to improving consultation and dialogue frameworks, fostering collaboration across various military branches, and advancing partnerships in defense technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. He pointed out that the defense relationship has become a crucial component of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership shared by the two countries. General Giang also acknowledged Japan’s contributions in areas such as personnel training, defense industry development, technology transfer, and post-war recovery projects. He advocated for increased scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defense personnel, especially in the fields of science, engineering, and technology.
Japan is recognized as one of Vietnam’s key economic and strategic allies, with robust cooperation in trade, investment, development assistance, and labor exchanges. Over recent years, defense cooperation between the two nations has expanded significantly, bolstered by regular policy dialogues and military consultations. General Uchikura reiterated Japan’s commitment to strengthening its defense ties with Vietnam and supported the idea of expanding cooperation in high-level exchanges, military education, cybersecurity, and healthcare services within the armed forces.
Both parties concurred on the importance of maintaining close coordination to further enhance mutual trust, regional stability, and long-term strategic cooperation. The meeting underscored the shared vision of Vietnam and Japan to deepen their defense collaboration, ensuring a strong and stable partnership in the face of evolving regional and global challenges.