NA Chairman holds talks with former Japanese PM

At a reception for the former Japanese PM on December 6, Hung acknowledged Hatoyama’s good sentiments given to the Vietnamese Government and people and expressed hope that with his experience, the former Japanese PM will continue to make greater contributions to promoting bilateral relations across many fields.

The Vietnamese chief legislator said his visit aims to boost the comprehensive strategic partnership and the ties of friendship and cooperation between the Vietnam NA and the Upper House of the National Diet of Japan.

In reply, Hatoyama applauded Hung’s positive contributions to consolidating the Vietnam-Japan relationship over many years and thanked Vietnam for joining hands with his country in dealing with the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami last year.

He said he is pleased to witness Vietnam’s rapid socio-economic development, especially in transport infrastructure, and is impressed with the increasing number of Japanese businesses investing in Vietnam.

Vietnam should expand its labour programs with Japan, which is facing an aging population and needs orderlies and nurses to care for their elderly, he affirmed.

The former PM also proposed intensifying rare earth research and exploitation in Vietnam and speed up the implementation of the already signed nuclear power projects.

 The NA Chief welcomed Hatoyama’s proposals and asked him to act as a bridge for both sides to increase bilateral cooperation in improving professional skills for young Vietnamese workers and enhancing cultural exchange.

Hung invited Hatoyama to visit Vietnam next year to mark the 40^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The same day, Hung also received leaders from the Communist Party of Japan.