PM Dung emphasised that the relationship between Vietnam and Japan has been developing and that the government and people of Vietnam will do their utmost to bring bilateral relations to a new height.

He briefed the guests on Vietnam's achievements after 20 years of pursuing a policy of transforming from a concentrated subsidiary economy to a market economy and integrating into the world and regional economies. One of the country's achievements was its accession to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), he noted.

The government leader said Vietnam has so far signed bilateral cooperation agreements with more than 70 countries, including Japan which is now a leading investor and number-one trade partner with Vietnam.

PM Dung emphasised Vietnam's policy of independence, self-confidence and multilateralisation, and its efforts to strengthen friendly relations with other countries for peace, stability and development.

PM Dung expressed his wish that the visit  would achieve satisfactory results to contribute to the development of bilateral relations.

VNA