Hanoi (VNA) - ⭕Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko recently visited Vietnam from October 10-11, making it one of her first international visits after assuming office on September 13, 2023.

During her visit, she reaffirmed Japan’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam across all sectors and proposed further deepening the Vietnam-Japan Extensive Strategic Partnership. In an interview with VietnamPlus, spokesperson for the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kobayashi Maki shared her personal sentiments about the amicable relations between Vietnam and Japan.

Mutual Respect, Understanding, and Admiration

- Could you share your impressions of your visit to Vietnam?

Ms. Kamikawa Yoko: I visited Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City ten years ago as a tourist, and I must say that your country has undergone remarkable transformations since then. Personally, I have always felt that Vietnam and Japan share a very close relationship and a long-standing friendship. In fact, there are numerous Vietnamese restaurants in Japan, and I have enjoyed traditional dishes like “pho” and spring rolls. However, experiencing authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Vietnam has been an even more captivating experience. I have discovered that Vietnamese cuisine incorporates a wide range of spices and vegetables, which adds to its richness and diversity.

- How do you assess the importance of cultural exchange in promoting diplomatic ties between the two countries?

Ms. Kamikawa Yoko:  Vietnam-Japan relations have been thriving in all domains, bolstered by robust political trust. Both sides have actively fostered exchanges at various levels, including the recent visit of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko to Vietnam. I believe that the cordial relations between Vietnam and Japan are not solely built on high-level meetings but, more importantly, on people-to-people exchanges. This relationship is founded on mutual respect, understanding, and an appreciation for each other’s culture, history, and traditions. Japan and Vietnam share a longstanding bond rooted in these fundamental aspects. In 2023, as Vietnam and Japan commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, we are delighted to witness the successful organisation of nearly 500 commemorative activities in both countries. Notable recent events include the Vietnamese Pho Festival held in Japan, a special tour of Vietnam-Japan Festival Symphony Orchestra, the performance of the opera “Princess Anio,” and various other cultural exchange initiatives. Through these activities, Vietnamese individuals who have yet to visit Japan have gained a certain understanding and familiarity with the country. Vice versa, Japanese people have also felt a closer connection to Vietnam and its people.

- In your opinion, what are the key factors that promote cultural exchange and cooperation between the two countries?

Ms. Kamikawa Yoko:  I believe that Vietnam and Japan share numerous commonalities that can serve as a solid foundation for cultural exchange and cooperation. Both countries possess unique and rich cultural heritage. It is evident that Vietnamese and Japanese people highly value familial bonds, maintain a strong connection to their roots, and uphold core values cherished by their respective societies. During my visit to the Temple of Literature, I was captivated by the ancient architecture, which bore some resemblance to religious spaces in Japan.

Relaxing visa for Vietnamese citizens

- How do you assess the significance of Minister Kamikawa Yoko’s visit in light of the current relations between the two countries?

Ms. Kamikawa Yoko:  Minister Kamikawa’s visit reaffirms the pivotal role that high political trust plays in fostering the robust development of bilateral relations. The two countries work closely together across various areas, encompassing bilateral, regional, and international issues. Japan actively collaborates with Vietnam in areas of mutual interest to provide specific support for peace and security in the region. In addition to bilateral matters, Minister Kamikawa Yoko’s visit to Vietnam also serves as preparation for the upcoming ASEAN-Japan Summit in December. During the summit, both sides will issue a statement underscoring their shared determination and vision for regional issues, as well as their desire to create a prosperous future through cooperation. Minister Kamikawa emphasized Vietnam’s crucial role in the region and in the ASEAN-Japan relationship. Given the common challenges faced by Japan and ASEAN, the two sides should share experiences and collaborate, including in areas such as establishing regulations for the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

- The Japanese government is exploring ways to attract more highly skilled workers. Can you share if Japan will introduce specific policies for Vietnamese citizens in the near future?

Ms. Kamikawa Yoko:  While we do not have specific policies tailored to any particular country, it is true that Japan is grappling with the challenges posed by an aging population. Therefore, the government is committed to finding ways to attract high-quality workers by expanding opportunities in various professional fields and improving working conditions. Discussions are underway regarding specific policies. In the immediate future, Japan is considering measures to facilitate entry for Vietnamese citizens. This could involve simplifying visa procedures, such as including Vietnam in the list of countries eligible for e-visas. It could also involve issuing long-term visas (5-10 years) to Vietnamese individuals with multiple entries to Japan in the past without legal violation. This aims to move towards visa exemption for Vietnamese citizens. Thank you very much!