Vietnamese ambassador to Japan Chu Tuan Cap highlighted the historical meaning of National Day. He stressed that sixty-two years is a magnificent period in the history of Vietnam after the country won two invasion wars to preserve its independence and now is moving ahead in its doi moi (renewal) process and international integration.

Ambassador Chu Tuan Cap also praised the fine development in the Vietnam-Japan relations. The two countries leaders’ agreement to build “a strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia” has helped open a new chapter in Vietnam-Japan relations. Regular meetings among leaders of the two countries have laid a firm background for expanded relations in politics, economics, and culture. Japan is the biggest official development assistance (ODA) provider for Vietnam, the leading trade partner and one of the biggest investors in Vietnam.

Vietnam and Japan are now cooperating in big projects in Vietnam, including the north-south railway route, the north-south highway and the Hoa Lac Hi-tech park. The two countries are also facilitating negotiations to sign the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) early, as well as boosting cooperation in international issues.

Tsutomu Takebe, President of the Japan-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Federation, expressed his fond sentiments towards Vietnam’s land and people. He also reviewed positive developments in Japan-Vietnam relations in politics, economics, trade, investment, tourism and culture.