During their talks in Tokyo on March 18, President Truong Tan Sang,now on a state visit to Japan , and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abeagreed to establish the extensive strategic partnership between the twocountries for peace and prosperity in Asia. Following is the full textof the statement on the establishment.
1) At theinvitation of Japan, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet NamTruong Tan Sang and Madam paid a State Visit to Japan from 16 to19 March, 2014. During the visit, Their Majesties the Emperor andEmpress of Japan hosted a solemn welcoming ceremony and a StateBanquet in honor of President Truong Tan Sang and Madam. PresidentTruong Tan Sang expressed his sincere gratitude to Their Majesties theEmperor and Empress, the Government and the people of Japan for thewarm welcome and hospitality extended to him and the Vietnamesedelegation.
2) On 18 March 2014, Prime Minister of JapanShinzo Abe and President Truong Tan Sang held a summit meeting. Buildingon the cooperative relations between Viet Nam and Japan , which havebeen dramatically strengthened in recent years, the two sides decidedto elevate the Strategic Partnership between Viet Nam and Japan toa higher level, namely Extensive Strategic Partnership for Peace andProsperity in Asia. They stated that this new level of cooperationreflected political trust as well as deep and extensive development ofthe bilateral relations in all areas, which was in the fundamental andlong-term interests of the two countries’ people, meeting theirexpectation, and contributed to the peace, stability, cooperation, anddevelopment in the region and the world.
I Bilateral Relations
1 Political and Security Areas
High-level mutual visits and dialogue mechanisms
3) President Truong Tan Sang extended his invitation to TheirMajesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, and to Prime MinisterShinzo Abe, to visit Viet Nam at the time of mutual convenience.The Japanese side expressed appreciation for the invitation.
4) The two sides highly valued the important role of and shared theintention to maintain visits and contacts between the high-level leadersof both countries as well as to further strengthen exchanges betweenthe two sides’ political parties and Parliament including friendlyparliamentary caucuses. The Japanese side highly praised the speech byPresident Truong Tan Sang at the National Diet of Japan on 18 March2014.
5) The two sides shared the intention to continueimplementing effectively existing dialogue mechanisms, such as theViet Nam - Japan Cooperation Committee at the foreign ministeriallevel and the Strategic Partnership Dialogue at the vice-foreignministerial level, and maintaining frequent exchanges among leaders andrelevant Departments of their foreign ministries.
Defense cooperation
6) The two sides shared the intention to continue workingclosely for the effective implementation of the “Memorandum between theMinistry of Defense of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Defense of Japan onBilateral Defense Cooperation and Exchanges” signed in 2011; continueimplementing the Viet Nam - Japan Defense Policy Dialogue atvice-ministerial level; enhance the exchange of delegations at variouslevels, including ministerial level, senior official level and expertlevel; promote cooperation between the respective services of the VietNam People’s Army and the Japan Self-Defense Forces, and advancecooperation such fields as human resource development, capacitybuilding, and visits of military ships.
7) TheJapanese side welcomed the Vietnamese sides’ decision to participate inthe UN peacekeeping operations and reaffirmed its assistance to theVietnamese side through human resource training, sharing of experience,and in other forms.
8) President Truong Tan Sangexpressed his appreciation for Japan ’s announcement of assistancefor the clearance of unexploded ordnance and landmine through the JapanASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).
Maritime Cooperation
9) The two sides confirmed that they would further strengthen theircooperation on maritime safety. Bearing in mind the urgent need toenhance the capacity of maritime law enforcement agencies of Viet Nam,Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced the dispatch of a survey team toViet Nam at an early date to exchange opinions on supporting Viet Namto build capacity for its maritime law enforcement agencies.
Cooperation in public safety and security
10) The two sides highly praised the Viet Nam-Japanvice-ministerial level Public Safety and Security Dialogue, and decidedto hold the next Dialogue in 2014.
Cooperation in the justice sector and legal system development
11) The Vietnamese side proposed an early commencement ofnegotiations on treaties on mutual legal assistance, extradition, andthe transfer of sentenced persons. The Japanese side took note of theproposal and expressed hope that Viet Nam would consider joiningmultilateral treaties, including the Hague Convention on the ServiceAbroad of Judicial and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or CommercialMatters.
12) President Truong Tan Sang expressed hisappreciation for Japan’s assistance for legal and judicial reforms inViet Nam including the amendment to the Constitution, and highlyappreciated the announcement of the continuation of such assistance byPrime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Non-traditional security issues
13) The two sides also shared the intention to strengthencooperation in tackling non-traditional security issues, terrorism,transnational crimes, piracy, and cybercrimes.
2 Economy
Support to the “Industrialization Strategy”
14) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated that Japan would continueto closely cooperate in the implementation of Viet Nam ’s action plansfor the six key areas under its industrialization strategy within theViet Nam - Japan cooperation framework until 2020 with a vision to2030: agro-fishery processing; electronics; automobile and its parts;agricultural machinery; environmental industry and energy conservation;and shipbuilding. He stated that the Japanese side would continue tocooperate in the development of supporting industries in Viet Nam, aswell as supporting the Vietnamese side in achieving its modernizationand industrialization goals by 2020 through assistance for enhancingcapacity related to planning and implementing industrial policies.
Promotion of ODA and Public-Private Partnership （ PPP ）
15) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reaffirmed that Viet Nam continuedto be an important partner in regard to Japan ’s OfficialDevelopment Assistance (ODA) policy. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe alsomentioned the importance of establishing a win-win relationship throughcooperation that draws on Japanese technologies and expertise, whiledeploying Japanese ODA to contribute to Viet Nam ’s sustainabledevelopment.
16) President Truong Tan Sang highly praisedthe statement above and expressed his gratitude regarding the signing ofthe Exchange of Notes for the second half of fiscal year 2013 for fiveODA projects in Viet Nam , which amounts to about 120 billion yen.
17) The two sides decided to strengthen cooperation inpromoting the development and operation of infrastructure in Viet Nam, in areas such as railways, roads, seaports, key airports, watersupply and sewerage systems , and water resource development, undermemoranda of cooperation between the relevant authorities of the twocountries. The Japanese side expressed its commitment to continuecooperating with Viet Nam in the improvement of existing North-Southrailway system and to support the consideration of the future vision ofanew North-South railway system, and the steady implementation ofongoing urban railway construction.
18) The two sidesshared the view on effective implementation of the Viet Nam AutomatedCargo Clearance System and Viet Nam Customs Intelligent Database System(VNACCS/VCIS) project.
19) The two sides decided that theywould actively promote Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in order toefficiently and effectively respond to large demands for infrastructurein Viet Nam .
20) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated thatthe Japanese side would continue to support the development of twoindustrial zones in HaiPhong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau, for which theVietnamese side had made strong requests, through the provision ofJapan’s experience on business administration and assistance for thepromotion of investment from Japan.
Improvement ofinvestment climate
21) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe highly appreciated Viet Nam’sefforts in the improvement of its investment climate, including seriousconsideration of the expansion of site area allocated for Japaneseschools. The two sides shared the viewthat they would continue theircooperation for the effective implementation of the Viet Nam-Japan JointInitiative Phase 5 on the improvement of Viet Nam’s investmentclimate for the purpose of promoting Japan ’s investment in Viet Nam.
Trade
22) The two sides shared the view towork closely for a strong promotion of trade cooperation between twocountries to strive for achieving the goal of doubling two-way trade andinvestment by 2020.
23) The Vietnamese side expressed itsappreciation regarding the relaxation of Maximum Residue Levels (MRL) ofEthoxyquin on the shrimps imported to Japan to 0.2ppm and for Japan’s efforts in developing conditions and early clearance of technicalprocedures for the import of Vietnamese fruits including dragon fruits,mangos and others to Japan.
24) The Japanese side welcomedViet Nam’s opening market for the import of Japanese beef, pork andoffal to Viet Nam. The two sides expressed their expectation thatthe additional procedures on related technical issues in accordance withthe existing regulations of Viet Nam would be soon completed. TheJapanese side also expressed appreciation for Viet Nam ’s efforts indeveloping conditions for an early import of apples from Japan.
Agriculture, forestry and fisheries
25) The two sides welcomed the signing of the Record ofDiscussionon Cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and RuralDevelopment of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry andFisheries of Japan, on March 18, 2014
26) The two sidesdecided to establish a cooperation dialogue mechanism to promotecomprehensive cooperation in the field of agriculture, forestry andfisheries and hold the first meeting in Viet Nam at an early date in2014.
27) The two sides also decided to strengthen public -private partnership to establish food value chains in Viet Nam , andto establish a mechanism to exchange opinions about the development offood industries in the two countries, and to hold its first meeting inViet Nam at an early date.
Reforms of the banking sector and state-owned enterprises
28) The two sides shared the view that reforms of the bankingsector and state-owned enterprises as well as an integrated resolutionof the issue of non-performing loans, including its disposal andcorporate revitalization, were important medium- to long-term challengesfor Viet Nam.
Energy and resources
29)The two sides affirmed the importance of cooperation in the field ofnuclear power. Regarding the project on the second nuclear power plantin Ninh Thuan Province , the two sides confirmed that they wouldcontinue to actively work together for its implementation based on thecommon recognition shared by the two countries’ high-level leaders.
30) The two sides shared the intention to promote cooperation inefficient energy consumption and the introduction of high efficientcoal-fired power generation technology, which would contribute toefficient energy use and environmental protection in Viet Nam.
31) The two sides confirmed their cooperation in implementinghuman resource development projects to support the formulation of energypolicies aiming at stabilizing electricity demand and supply in VietNam . The two sides shared the intention to work together towards theeffective implementation of the model project on industrial waste powergeneration system in Hanoi , conducted by the New Energy and IndustrialTechnology Development Organization (NEDO) and its dissemination toother provinces in Viet Nam .
32) The two sides sharedthe intention to continue working together for the development of miningand processing industries of rare earths in Viet Nam.
Environment, climate change and disaster management
33) The two sides decided to continue their cooperation in theeffective implementation of the “Memorandum of Cooperation betweenMinistry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Social Republic ofViet Nam and Ministry of the Environment, Japanon EnvironmentalCooperation” signed in December 2013. The two sides shared the intentionto enhance cooperation through ICT workshops on disaster management soas to actively address environmental protection and disaster managementissues. The two sides welcomed progress in the establishment of JointCrediting Mechanism (JCM) between Viet Nam and Japan based on“Memorandum of Cooperation on Low Carbon Growth between the Vietnameseside and the Japanese side” signed in July 2013, and decided on a steadyimplementation of the JCM in Viet Nam as well as promoting the JCM asan effective mechanism for low carbon growth in the international arena.
34) The Japanese side expressed its commitment to continueproviding assistance to Viet Nam for response to climate change.
35) The Vietnamese side highly appreciated Japan ’scommitment to providing next-generation electric vehicles to Hanoi .
36) The two sides acknowledged the importance of andaffirmed their continued cooperation in the areas ofair pollutioncontrol and watersupplyand sewerage systems. The Japanese side expressedits readiness to support the Vietnamese side in this area through theutilization of advanced technologiesthat Japan ’s municipalitiesandprivate companies have comparative advantages.
37) The twosides shared the intention to work together to effectively implement the“Memorandum on Cooperation in the field of Water-Related DisasterManagementand Climate Change Adaptation between the Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development of the Socialist Republic of Viet Namand the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism ofJapan” signed in September 2013. President Truong Tan Sang welcomedJapan ’s hosting of the Third UN World Conference on Disaster RiskReduction in Sendai in March 2015. The two sides shared theintention to cooperate for the success of this Conference.
Construction and urbaninfrastructure development
38) The two sides committed to strengthening comprehensivecooperation in construction and urban infrastructure development,including development of eco-city, development of infrastructure forwater supply and sewerage systems, drainage, solid waste disposal,underground facilities, etc. As regards eco-city development, the twosides committed to coordinating for the effective implementation of theMemorandum of Cooperation for Promoting Implementation of Eco-cityProject in Viet Nam signed in October 2013 between the Ministry ofConstruction of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Ministry ofLand, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan. The Japanese sideexpressed its intentionto provide continued supports to Viet Nam incapacity building and improvement of legal systems in the area of urbandevelopment.
Information and communications, postal business
39) The two sides shared the intention to promote cooperation inthe fields of information and communications and postal business bycollaborating to effectively implement the “Memorandum on Cooperation inthe Field of Information and Communications Between the Ministry ofInformation and Communications of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Andthe Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan” revised inSeptember 2013.
Healthcare and social security
40)The two sides welcomed the signing of the “Memorandum of Cooperationin the field of healthcare between the Ministry of health of theSocialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Health, Labour andWelfare of Japan” on 18 March 2014. The two sides shared the intentionto enhance cooperation between the relevant agencies of the twocountries in the area of social security and social welfare includingsharing of Japan ’s experience in public health insurance systemandpreparation for aging society etc.
41) President Truong TanSang highly appreciated Japan ’s support for Viet Nam ’s healthsector and its positive consideration to the provision of assistance forthe construction of the Viet Nam - Japan Friendship Hospital inHo Chi Minh City.
42) The two sides recognized theimportance of bilateral cooperation in prevention and control ofnon-communicable diseases, including cancer and lifestyle diseases, andwelcomed cooperation achievements inhuman resource development in healthcare between the two countries.
Science and technology
43) The two sides emphasized the importance of strengtheningcomprehensive cooperation in the field of science and technology, anddecided to pursue to hold the Fourth Viet Nam-Japan Joint Committee onScience and Technology at the earliest possible time in Viet Nam .The Vietnamese side highly appreciated Japan ’s support for capacitybuilding for the Vietnamese science and technology institutions. In thisregard, the two sides confirmed their intention to promote jointresearch projects and training of students, experts and professionalsfor Viet Nam within the frameworks of the Science and TechnologyResearch Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) and thee-ASIA Joint Research Program.
Human resource development
44) The two sides welcomed the signing of the StrategicCooperation Program on education between the Ministry of Education andTraining of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports,Science and Technology of Japan on 18 March, 2014.
45) TheJapanese side committed to actively supporting Viet Nam in humanresource development, assisting in the promotion of Japanese languageeducation in Viet Nam , as well as development of Viet Nam’svocational skill standards. The two sides also decided to continue topromote exchanges between universities, students, and researchers, inorder to promote mutual understanding among the younger generation ofthe two countries and contribute to the further development of the VietNam-Japan relationship. The Vietnamese side highly appreciated thatJapan has given positive consideration to the provision of assistance toupgrade Can Tho University and the other selected universities touniversities of excellence, assistance toward establishment of anational skill testing system, and cooperation to develop certainVietnamese vocational training colleges so as to meet internationalstandards. The two sides affirmed the continuation of the twoGovernment’s cooperation inthe Viet Nam – Japan Universityproject, which is being promoted by relevant stakeholders of the twocountries.
46) The two sides decided to strengthen thedevelopment of human resources and legal frameworks related to theconstruction sector, in order to effectively implement the document forcooperation in the construction sector development signed in June 2013.
Acceptance of candidates for nurses or care-workers and of technical interns
47) The two sides welcomed the fact that the first batch ofeligible Vietnamese candidates for qualified nurses and certifiedcare-workers would arrive in Japan in June 2014 and confirmed thatthey would actively cooperate to achieve smooth and effective acceptanceof future candidates. President Truong Tan Sang expressed his hopethat a larger number of candidates will be accepted in the future.
48) President Truong Tan Sang expressed his hope for Japan ’sacceptance of technical interns from Viet Nam in the areas ofagriculture and fisheries, processing of agricultural and fisheryproducts, and construction.
3 Culture and People Exchange
Establishment of a dialogue framework on cultural and people-to-people exchange
49) The two sides shared the intention to accelerate discussionstowards the establishment of a dialogue framework to promotecooperation in culture and people-to-people exchange between the twocountries.
Cultural cooperation
50) The twosides highly praised the success of the commemorative events for the “Viet Nam - Japan Friendship Year” in 2013, which marked the 40thanniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the twocountries.
51) The two sides shared the intention topromote cultural exchanges between the two countries through jointefforts to organize two-way activities for the promotion ofpeople, culture and art, including the annual Viet Namfestival in Japan . Prime Minister Shinzo Abe explained Japan ’snew policy on cultural exchanges in Asia, announced in December 2013under the name “WA Project ~Toward Interactive Asia through ‘Fusionand Harmony’~” and suggested the promotion of cultural exchange throughassistance in Japanese language learningand the utilization of thispolicy. President Truong Tan Sang welcomed this proposal of PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe.
Cooperation in broadcasting
52) The two sides shared the intention to use broadcasting contentsfor fostering friendly relations, to be achieved through cooperation andcoordination between broadcasting stations of the two countries, withthe objective of enhancing mutual understanding rooted in culture,tradition, and history of the two countries.
Promotion of tourism
53) The two sides shared the intention to promote tourismcooperation between the two countries. President Truong Tan Sangwelcomed the relaxation of visa requirements implemented by the Japaneseside in July 2013 and expressed his hope that the Japanese side wouldtake steps to simplify visa application procedures for the people ofViet Nam . Prime Minister Shinzo Abe appreciated the unilateral visaexemption implemented by the Government of Viet Nam since 2004. The twosides shared the view to continue to exchange opinions on addressingfurther the simplification of visa application procedures for theVietnamese people.
Youth and sports exchange
54) President Truong Tan Sang welcomed the fact that PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe was conducting youth exchanges of approximately1,000 people between the two countries in JENESYS2.0.
55)President Truong Tan Sang welcomed the announcement made byPrime Minister Shinzo Abe about the holding of Japan- ASEAN Youth SoccerExchange Games (U-14) in Japan this April, and about Japan ’sintention to participate in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Games(U-19), to be hosted by Viet Nam this September.
56)President Truong Tan Sang congratulated on Tokyo ’s designationas the host city for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and expressedhis readiness to cooperate with Japan for the success of theseevents. The Japanese side affirmed its support for Viet Nam in sportsin various areas, including its assistance for the success of the AsianGames (ASIAD), which Viet Nam will host in 2019. Prime MinisterShinzo Abe explained about Japan ’s “Sport for Tomorrow ”program . President Truong Tan Sang welcomed Japan ’s effortsto spread the value of sport and the Olympic Movement around theworld .
57) The two sides welcomed the increase in thenumber of school trips to Viet Nam organized by Japanese highschools.
II Regional and Global Issues
Contribution to peace, cooperation and development in the
region and the world
58) The two sides reaffirmed that they would strengthen extensivecoordination and cooperation in regional and international forums, suchas the United Nations (UN), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum(APEC), the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), the East Asia Summit (EAS),ASEAN+3, ASEAN Defense Minister’s Meeting Plus (ADMM+), ASEAN RegionalForum (ARF), etc. to make active and constructive contribution to peace,stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.
59) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe elaborated Japan ’s securitypolicy including its recent efforts under the policy of “ProactiveContribution to Peace” based on the principle of internationalcooperation. President Truong Tan Sang strongly expressed hisexpectation that Japan would continue to make active andconstructive contribution to peace, stability and prosperity in theregion and the world.
60) Prime Minister Shinzo Abeemphasized that the recovery of the Japanese economy benefits ASEANincluding Viet Nam , while Viet Nam ’s growth benefits Japan .President Truong Tan Sang expressed his expectation that the recovery ofthe Japanese economy through “Abenomics” would bring significantbenefits to the regional and global economy.
Cooperation in ASEAN and the MekongRegion
61) The two sides welcomed the success of the ASEAN-Japan Summitto commemorate 40 years of ASEAN-Japan dialogue relations and the 5thMekong-Japan Summit Meeting held in December 2013 and decided to closelycooperate to bring the results of these meetings into implementation.The Japanese side expressedits support for ASEAN’s centrality in theregional architecture and its readiness to continue its activeassistance for enhancing regional connectivity and narrowing developmentgaps within the region toward the establishment of the ASEAN Communityin 2015.
62) The two sides highly valued the positiveresults of the Green Mekong Forum and affirmed their intention tocontinue cooperation, along with other relevant organizations, inparticular the Mekong River Commission (MRC), in exchange informationand researching, such as cooperation for a study on sustainablemanagement and development of the Mekong River, including on theimpact of mainstream hydro-power projectsto promote sustainabledevelopment and management of water resources of the Mekong River. TheJapanese side decided that priority would be given to projects inagriculture, health, investment, trade, tourism and infrastructuredevelopment in the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC), the SouthernCorridor, and the Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam development triangle in orderto strengthen connectivity and narrow development gap within Mekongsub-region.
63) The Vietnamese side welcomed Prime MinisterShinzo Abe’s initiative on consultations with ASEAN countries for theholding of an informal meeting between Japan and ASEAN involvingministers in charge of defense matters to discuss non-traditionalsecurity issues including disaster prevention.
64) PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe welcomed that Viet Nam is considering positivelythe convening of the third Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum this year, andthe two sides decided to cooperate toward the success of the Forum.
Promotion of Trans-Pacific Partnership(TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership(RCEP)
65) The two sides shared the intention to work closely in thenegotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the RegionalComprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
United Nations
66) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his gratitude for VietNam ’s continued support for Japan ’s aspiration to become apermanent member of the enlarged United Nations Security Council. Inview of the 70 th anniversary of the United Nations in 2015, the twosides decided to actively work together to achieve an early reform ofthe United Nations Security Council towards enhancing its effectiveness,legitimacy, transparency and increasing the representativeness of theUnited Nations Security Council.
67) The two sidesreaffirmed their cooperation for the achievement of the MillenniumDevelopment Goals (MDGs) by 2015 and the formulation ofthe post-2015development agenda. The two sides shared the common recognition that thepost-2015 development agenda should be a more effective framework foraddressing poverty eradication, ensuring sustainable and inclusivesocial economic development, and environmental sustainability as well ashuman security, where disaster management and universal health coverageare appropriately positioned.
Maritime freedom and safety
68) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe highly praised Viet Nam ’sefforts toward the settlement of issues including those in the area ofmaritime security based on the principle of the rule of law. Mindful ofair and maritime linkages between Viet Nam and Japan in theregion, Prime Minster Shinzo Abe stressed that any unilateral andcoercive action to challenge peace and stability should not beoverlooked. The two sides affirmed that peace and stability at sea werein the common interest of both countries as well as of the internationalcommunity. They also shared the position that all relevant partiesshould comply with international law including the United NationsConvention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They concurred on theimportance of maintaining maritime security and safety, upholding thefreedom of the high seas including the freedom of navigation andoverflight and unimpeded commerce, and ensuring self-restraint and theresolution of disputes by peaceful means in accordance with universallyrecognized principles of international law including UNCLOS. They alsoshared the view that Code of Conduct (COC) in South China Sea shouldbe concluded at an early date.
Korean Peninsula
69) The two sides encouraged North Korea to fully comply withits obligations under all relevant UNSC Resolutions and commitmentsunder the Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks on 19 September 2005,and supported complete and verifiable denuclearization in the KoreanPeninsula . They shared the intention to strengthen efforts to resolvethe issue of abductions, which is a humanitarian concern of theinternational community. The Vietnamese side stated its readiness towork within its capacity with Japan to promote the resolution ofthis abductions issue.
Tokyo
18 March 2014
Mr. Truong Tan Sang
President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
Mr. Shinzo Abe
Prime Minister of Japan
1) At theinvitation of Japan, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet NamTruong Tan Sang and Madam paid a State Visit to Japan from 16 to19 March, 2014. During the visit, Their Majesties the Emperor andEmpress of Japan hosted a solemn welcoming ceremony and a StateBanquet in honor of President Truong Tan Sang and Madam. PresidentTruong Tan Sang expressed his sincere gratitude to Their Majesties theEmperor and Empress, the Government and the people of Japan for thewarm welcome and hospitality extended to him and the Vietnamesedelegation.
2) On 18 March 2014, Prime Minister of JapanShinzo Abe and President Truong Tan Sang held a summit meeting. Buildingon the cooperative relations between Viet Nam and Japan , which havebeen dramatically strengthened in recent years, the two sides decidedto elevate the Strategic Partnership between Viet Nam and Japan toa higher level, namely Extensive Strategic Partnership for Peace andProsperity in Asia. They stated that this new level of cooperationreflected political trust as well as deep and extensive development ofthe bilateral relations in all areas, which was in the fundamental andlong-term interests of the two countries’ people, meeting theirexpectation, and contributed to the peace, stability, cooperation, anddevelopment in the region and the world.
I Bilateral Relations
1 Political and Security Areas
High-level mutual visits and dialogue mechanisms
3) President Truong Tan Sang extended his invitation to TheirMajesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan, and to Prime MinisterShinzo Abe, to visit Viet Nam at the time of mutual convenience.The Japanese side expressed appreciation for the invitation.
4) The two sides highly valued the important role of and shared theintention to maintain visits and contacts between the high-level leadersof both countries as well as to further strengthen exchanges betweenthe two sides’ political parties and Parliament including friendlyparliamentary caucuses. The Japanese side highly praised the speech byPresident Truong Tan Sang at the National Diet of Japan on 18 March2014.
5) The two sides shared the intention to continueimplementing effectively existing dialogue mechanisms, such as theViet Nam - Japan Cooperation Committee at the foreign ministeriallevel and the Strategic Partnership Dialogue at the vice-foreignministerial level, and maintaining frequent exchanges among leaders andrelevant Departments of their foreign ministries.
Defense cooperation
6) The two sides shared the intention to continue workingclosely for the effective implementation of the “Memorandum between theMinistry of Defense of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Defense of Japan onBilateral Defense Cooperation and Exchanges” signed in 2011; continueimplementing the Viet Nam - Japan Defense Policy Dialogue atvice-ministerial level; enhance the exchange of delegations at variouslevels, including ministerial level, senior official level and expertlevel; promote cooperation between the respective services of the VietNam People’s Army and the Japan Self-Defense Forces, and advancecooperation such fields as human resource development, capacitybuilding, and visits of military ships.
7) TheJapanese side welcomed the Vietnamese sides’ decision to participate inthe UN peacekeeping operations and reaffirmed its assistance to theVietnamese side through human resource training, sharing of experience,and in other forms.
8) President Truong Tan Sangexpressed his appreciation for Japan ’s announcement of assistancefor the clearance of unexploded ordnance and landmine through the JapanASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).
Maritime Cooperation
9) The two sides confirmed that they would further strengthen theircooperation on maritime safety. Bearing in mind the urgent need toenhance the capacity of maritime law enforcement agencies of Viet Nam,Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced the dispatch of a survey team toViet Nam at an early date to exchange opinions on supporting Viet Namto build capacity for its maritime law enforcement agencies.
Cooperation in public safety and security
10) The two sides highly praised the Viet Nam-Japanvice-ministerial level Public Safety and Security Dialogue, and decidedto hold the next Dialogue in 2014.
Cooperation in the justice sector and legal system development
11) The Vietnamese side proposed an early commencement ofnegotiations on treaties on mutual legal assistance, extradition, andthe transfer of sentenced persons. The Japanese side took note of theproposal and expressed hope that Viet Nam would consider joiningmultilateral treaties, including the Hague Convention on the ServiceAbroad of Judicial and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or CommercialMatters.
12) President Truong Tan Sang expressed hisappreciation for Japan’s assistance for legal and judicial reforms inViet Nam including the amendment to the Constitution, and highlyappreciated the announcement of the continuation of such assistance byPrime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Non-traditional security issues
13) The two sides also shared the intention to strengthencooperation in tackling non-traditional security issues, terrorism,transnational crimes, piracy, and cybercrimes.
2 Economy
Support to the “Industrialization Strategy”
14) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated that Japan would continueto closely cooperate in the implementation of Viet Nam ’s action plansfor the six key areas under its industrialization strategy within theViet Nam - Japan cooperation framework until 2020 with a vision to2030: agro-fishery processing; electronics; automobile and its parts;agricultural machinery; environmental industry and energy conservation;and shipbuilding. He stated that the Japanese side would continue tocooperate in the development of supporting industries in Viet Nam, aswell as supporting the Vietnamese side in achieving its modernizationand industrialization goals by 2020 through assistance for enhancingcapacity related to planning and implementing industrial policies.
Promotion of ODA and Public-Private Partnership （ PPP ）
15) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe reaffirmed that Viet Nam continuedto be an important partner in regard to Japan ’s OfficialDevelopment Assistance (ODA) policy. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe alsomentioned the importance of establishing a win-win relationship throughcooperation that draws on Japanese technologies and expertise, whiledeploying Japanese ODA to contribute to Viet Nam ’s sustainabledevelopment.
16) President Truong Tan Sang highly praisedthe statement above and expressed his gratitude regarding the signing ofthe Exchange of Notes for the second half of fiscal year 2013 for fiveODA projects in Viet Nam , which amounts to about 120 billion yen.
17) The two sides decided to strengthen cooperation inpromoting the development and operation of infrastructure in Viet Nam, in areas such as railways, roads, seaports, key airports, watersupply and sewerage systems , and water resource development, undermemoranda of cooperation between the relevant authorities of the twocountries. The Japanese side expressed its commitment to continuecooperating with Viet Nam in the improvement of existing North-Southrailway system and to support the consideration of the future vision ofanew North-South railway system, and the steady implementation ofongoing urban railway construction.
18) The two sidesshared the view on effective implementation of the Viet Nam AutomatedCargo Clearance System and Viet Nam Customs Intelligent Database System(VNACCS/VCIS) project.
19) The two sides decided that theywould actively promote Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in order toefficiently and effectively respond to large demands for infrastructurein Viet Nam .
20) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stated thatthe Japanese side would continue to support the development of twoindustrial zones in HaiPhong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau, for which theVietnamese side had made strong requests, through the provision ofJapan’s experience on business administration and assistance for thepromotion of investment from Japan.
Improvement ofinvestment climate
21) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe highly appreciated Viet Nam’sefforts in the improvement of its investment climate, including seriousconsideration of the expansion of site area allocated for Japaneseschools. The two sides shared the viewthat they would continue theircooperation for the effective implementation of the Viet Nam-Japan JointInitiative Phase 5 on the improvement of Viet Nam’s investmentclimate for the purpose of promoting Japan ’s investment in Viet Nam.
Trade
22) The two sides shared the view towork closely for a strong promotion of trade cooperation between twocountries to strive for achieving the goal of doubling two-way trade andinvestment by 2020.
23) The Vietnamese side expressed itsappreciation regarding the relaxation of Maximum Residue Levels (MRL) ofEthoxyquin on the shrimps imported to Japan to 0.2ppm and for Japan’s efforts in developing conditions and early clearance of technicalprocedures for the import of Vietnamese fruits including dragon fruits,mangos and others to Japan.
24) The Japanese side welcomedViet Nam’s opening market for the import of Japanese beef, pork andoffal to Viet Nam. The two sides expressed their expectation thatthe additional procedures on related technical issues in accordance withthe existing regulations of Viet Nam would be soon completed. TheJapanese side also expressed appreciation for Viet Nam ’s efforts indeveloping conditions for an early import of apples from Japan.
Agriculture, forestry and fisheries
25) The two sides welcomed the signing of the Record ofDiscussionon Cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and RuralDevelopment of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry andFisheries of Japan, on March 18, 2014
26) The two sidesdecided to establish a cooperation dialogue mechanism to promotecomprehensive cooperation in the field of agriculture, forestry andfisheries and hold the first meeting in Viet Nam at an early date in2014.
27) The two sides also decided to strengthen public -private partnership to establish food value chains in Viet Nam , andto establish a mechanism to exchange opinions about the development offood industries in the two countries, and to hold its first meeting inViet Nam at an early date.
Reforms of the banking sector and state-owned enterprises
28) The two sides shared the view that reforms of the bankingsector and state-owned enterprises as well as an integrated resolutionof the issue of non-performing loans, including its disposal andcorporate revitalization, were important medium- to long-term challengesfor Viet Nam.
Energy and resources
29)The two sides affirmed the importance of cooperation in the field ofnuclear power. Regarding the project on the second nuclear power plantin Ninh Thuan Province , the two sides confirmed that they wouldcontinue to actively work together for its implementation based on thecommon recognition shared by the two countries’ high-level leaders.
30) The two sides shared the intention to promote cooperation inefficient energy consumption and the introduction of high efficientcoal-fired power generation technology, which would contribute toefficient energy use and environmental protection in Viet Nam.
31) The two sides confirmed their cooperation in implementinghuman resource development projects to support the formulation of energypolicies aiming at stabilizing electricity demand and supply in VietNam . The two sides shared the intention to work together towards theeffective implementation of the model project on industrial waste powergeneration system in Hanoi , conducted by the New Energy and IndustrialTechnology Development Organization (NEDO) and its dissemination toother provinces in Viet Nam .
32) The two sides sharedthe intention to continue working together for the development of miningand processing industries of rare earths in Viet Nam.
Environment, climate change and disaster management
33) The two sides decided to continue their cooperation in theeffective implementation of the “Memorandum of Cooperation betweenMinistry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Social Republic ofViet Nam and Ministry of the Environment, Japanon EnvironmentalCooperation” signed in December 2013. The two sides shared the intentionto enhance cooperation through ICT workshops on disaster management soas to actively address environmental protection and disaster managementissues. The two sides welcomed progress in the establishment of JointCrediting Mechanism (JCM) between Viet Nam and Japan based on“Memorandum of Cooperation on Low Carbon Growth between the Vietnameseside and the Japanese side” signed in July 2013, and decided on a steadyimplementation of the JCM in Viet Nam as well as promoting the JCM asan effective mechanism for low carbon growth in the international arena.
34) The Japanese side expressed its commitment to continueproviding assistance to Viet Nam for response to climate change.
35) The Vietnamese side highly appreciated Japan ’scommitment to providing next-generation electric vehicles to Hanoi .
36) The two sides acknowledged the importance of andaffirmed their continued cooperation in the areas ofair pollutioncontrol and watersupplyand sewerage systems. The Japanese side expressedits readiness to support the Vietnamese side in this area through theutilization of advanced technologiesthat Japan ’s municipalitiesandprivate companies have comparative advantages.
37) The twosides shared the intention to work together to effectively implement the“Memorandum on Cooperation in the field of Water-Related DisasterManagementand Climate Change Adaptation between the Ministry ofAgriculture and Rural Development of the Socialist Republic of Viet Namand the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism ofJapan” signed in September 2013. President Truong Tan Sang welcomedJapan ’s hosting of the Third UN World Conference on Disaster RiskReduction in Sendai in March 2015. The two sides shared theintention to cooperate for the success of this Conference.
Construction and urbaninfrastructure development
38) The two sides committed to strengthening comprehensivecooperation in construction and urban infrastructure development,including development of eco-city, development of infrastructure forwater supply and sewerage systems, drainage, solid waste disposal,underground facilities, etc. As regards eco-city development, the twosides committed to coordinating for the effective implementation of theMemorandum of Cooperation for Promoting Implementation of Eco-cityProject in Viet Nam signed in October 2013 between the Ministry ofConstruction of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Ministry ofLand, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan. The Japanese sideexpressed its intentionto provide continued supports to Viet Nam incapacity building and improvement of legal systems in the area of urbandevelopment.
Information and communications, postal business
39) The two sides shared the intention to promote cooperation inthe fields of information and communications and postal business bycollaborating to effectively implement the “Memorandum on Cooperation inthe Field of Information and Communications Between the Ministry ofInformation and Communications of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam Andthe Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan” revised inSeptember 2013.
Healthcare and social security
40)The two sides welcomed the signing of the “Memorandum of Cooperationin the field of healthcare between the Ministry of health of theSocialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Health, Labour andWelfare of Japan” on 18 March 2014. The two sides shared the intentionto enhance cooperation between the relevant agencies of the twocountries in the area of social security and social welfare includingsharing of Japan ’s experience in public health insurance systemandpreparation for aging society etc.
41) President Truong TanSang highly appreciated Japan ’s support for Viet Nam ’s healthsector and its positive consideration to the provision of assistance forthe construction of the Viet Nam - Japan Friendship Hospital inHo Chi Minh City.
42) The two sides recognized theimportance of bilateral cooperation in prevention and control ofnon-communicable diseases, including cancer and lifestyle diseases, andwelcomed cooperation achievements inhuman resource development in healthcare between the two countries.
Science and technology
43) The two sides emphasized the importance of strengtheningcomprehensive cooperation in the field of science and technology, anddecided to pursue to hold the Fourth Viet Nam-Japan Joint Committee onScience and Technology at the earliest possible time in Viet Nam .The Vietnamese side highly appreciated Japan ’s support for capacitybuilding for the Vietnamese science and technology institutions. In thisregard, the two sides confirmed their intention to promote jointresearch projects and training of students, experts and professionalsfor Viet Nam within the frameworks of the Science and TechnologyResearch Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) and thee-ASIA Joint Research Program.
Human resource development
44) The two sides welcomed the signing of the StrategicCooperation Program on education between the Ministry of Education andTraining of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports,Science and Technology of Japan on 18 March, 2014.
45) TheJapanese side committed to actively supporting Viet Nam in humanresource development, assisting in the promotion of Japanese languageeducation in Viet Nam , as well as development of Viet Nam’svocational skill standards. The two sides also decided to continue topromote exchanges between universities, students, and researchers, inorder to promote mutual understanding among the younger generation ofthe two countries and contribute to the further development of the VietNam-Japan relationship. The Vietnamese side highly appreciated thatJapan has given positive consideration to the provision of assistance toupgrade Can Tho University and the other selected universities touniversities of excellence, assistance toward establishment of anational skill testing system, and cooperation to develop certainVietnamese vocational training colleges so as to meet internationalstandards. The two sides affirmed the continuation of the twoGovernment’s cooperation inthe Viet Nam – Japan Universityproject, which is being promoted by relevant stakeholders of the twocountries.
46) The two sides decided to strengthen thedevelopment of human resources and legal frameworks related to theconstruction sector, in order to effectively implement the document forcooperation in the construction sector development signed in June 2013.
Acceptance of candidates for nurses or care-workers and of technical interns
47) The two sides welcomed the fact that the first batch ofeligible Vietnamese candidates for qualified nurses and certifiedcare-workers would arrive in Japan in June 2014 and confirmed thatthey would actively cooperate to achieve smooth and effective acceptanceof future candidates. President Truong Tan Sang expressed his hopethat a larger number of candidates will be accepted in the future.
48) President Truong Tan Sang expressed his hope for Japan ’sacceptance of technical interns from Viet Nam in the areas ofagriculture and fisheries, processing of agricultural and fisheryproducts, and construction.
3 Culture and People Exchange
Establishment of a dialogue framework on cultural and people-to-people exchange
49) The two sides shared the intention to accelerate discussionstowards the establishment of a dialogue framework to promotecooperation in culture and people-to-people exchange between the twocountries.
Cultural cooperation
50) The twosides highly praised the success of the commemorative events for the “Viet Nam - Japan Friendship Year” in 2013, which marked the 40thanniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the twocountries.
51) The two sides shared the intention topromote cultural exchanges between the two countries through jointefforts to organize two-way activities for the promotion ofpeople, culture and art, including the annual Viet Namfestival in Japan . Prime Minister Shinzo Abe explained Japan ’snew policy on cultural exchanges in Asia, announced in December 2013under the name “WA Project ~Toward Interactive Asia through ‘Fusionand Harmony’~” and suggested the promotion of cultural exchange throughassistance in Japanese language learningand the utilization of thispolicy. President Truong Tan Sang welcomed this proposal of PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe.
Cooperation in broadcasting
52) The two sides shared the intention to use broadcasting contentsfor fostering friendly relations, to be achieved through cooperation andcoordination between broadcasting stations of the two countries, withthe objective of enhancing mutual understanding rooted in culture,tradition, and history of the two countries.
Promotion of tourism
53) The two sides shared the intention to promote tourismcooperation between the two countries. President Truong Tan Sangwelcomed the relaxation of visa requirements implemented by the Japaneseside in July 2013 and expressed his hope that the Japanese side wouldtake steps to simplify visa application procedures for the people ofViet Nam . Prime Minister Shinzo Abe appreciated the unilateral visaexemption implemented by the Government of Viet Nam since 2004. The twosides shared the view to continue to exchange opinions on addressingfurther the simplification of visa application procedures for theVietnamese people.
Youth and sports exchange
54) President Truong Tan Sang welcomed the fact that PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe was conducting youth exchanges of approximately1,000 people between the two countries in JENESYS2.0.
55)President Truong Tan Sang welcomed the announcement made byPrime Minister Shinzo Abe about the holding of Japan- ASEAN Youth SoccerExchange Games (U-14) in Japan this April, and about Japan ’sintention to participate in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Games(U-19), to be hosted by Viet Nam this September.
56)President Truong Tan Sang congratulated on Tokyo ’s designationas the host city for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and expressedhis readiness to cooperate with Japan for the success of theseevents. The Japanese side affirmed its support for Viet Nam in sportsin various areas, including its assistance for the success of the AsianGames (ASIAD), which Viet Nam will host in 2019. Prime MinisterShinzo Abe explained about Japan ’s “Sport for Tomorrow ”program . President Truong Tan Sang welcomed Japan ’s effortsto spread the value of sport and the Olympic Movement around theworld .
57) The two sides welcomed the increase in thenumber of school trips to Viet Nam organized by Japanese highschools.
II Regional and Global Issues
Contribution to peace, cooperation and development in the
region and the world
58) The two sides reaffirmed that they would strengthen extensivecoordination and cooperation in regional and international forums, suchas the United Nations (UN), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum(APEC), the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), the East Asia Summit (EAS),ASEAN+3, ASEAN Defense Minister’s Meeting Plus (ADMM+), ASEAN RegionalForum (ARF), etc. to make active and constructive contribution to peace,stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.
59) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe elaborated Japan ’s securitypolicy including its recent efforts under the policy of “ProactiveContribution to Peace” based on the principle of internationalcooperation. President Truong Tan Sang strongly expressed hisexpectation that Japan would continue to make active andconstructive contribution to peace, stability and prosperity in theregion and the world.
60) Prime Minister Shinzo Abeemphasized that the recovery of the Japanese economy benefits ASEANincluding Viet Nam , while Viet Nam ’s growth benefits Japan .President Truong Tan Sang expressed his expectation that the recovery ofthe Japanese economy through “Abenomics” would bring significantbenefits to the regional and global economy.
Cooperation in ASEAN and the MekongRegion
61) The two sides welcomed the success of the ASEAN-Japan Summitto commemorate 40 years of ASEAN-Japan dialogue relations and the 5thMekong-Japan Summit Meeting held in December 2013 and decided to closelycooperate to bring the results of these meetings into implementation.The Japanese side expressedits support for ASEAN’s centrality in theregional architecture and its readiness to continue its activeassistance for enhancing regional connectivity and narrowing developmentgaps within the region toward the establishment of the ASEAN Communityin 2015.
62) The two sides highly valued the positiveresults of the Green Mekong Forum and affirmed their intention tocontinue cooperation, along with other relevant organizations, inparticular the Mekong River Commission (MRC), in exchange informationand researching, such as cooperation for a study on sustainablemanagement and development of the Mekong River, including on theimpact of mainstream hydro-power projectsto promote sustainabledevelopment and management of water resources of the Mekong River. TheJapanese side decided that priority would be given to projects inagriculture, health, investment, trade, tourism and infrastructuredevelopment in the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC), the SouthernCorridor, and the Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam development triangle in orderto strengthen connectivity and narrow development gap within Mekongsub-region.
63) The Vietnamese side welcomed Prime MinisterShinzo Abe’s initiative on consultations with ASEAN countries for theholding of an informal meeting between Japan and ASEAN involvingministers in charge of defense matters to discuss non-traditionalsecurity issues including disaster prevention.
64) PrimeMinister Shinzo Abe welcomed that Viet Nam is considering positivelythe convening of the third Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum this year, andthe two sides decided to cooperate toward the success of the Forum.
Promotion of Trans-Pacific Partnership(TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership(RCEP)
65) The two sides shared the intention to work closely in thenegotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the RegionalComprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
United Nations
66) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his gratitude for VietNam ’s continued support for Japan ’s aspiration to become apermanent member of the enlarged United Nations Security Council. Inview of the 70 th anniversary of the United Nations in 2015, the twosides decided to actively work together to achieve an early reform ofthe United Nations Security Council towards enhancing its effectiveness,legitimacy, transparency and increasing the representativeness of theUnited Nations Security Council.
67) The two sidesreaffirmed their cooperation for the achievement of the MillenniumDevelopment Goals (MDGs) by 2015 and the formulation ofthe post-2015development agenda. The two sides shared the common recognition that thepost-2015 development agenda should be a more effective framework foraddressing poverty eradication, ensuring sustainable and inclusivesocial economic development, and environmental sustainability as well ashuman security, where disaster management and universal health coverageare appropriately positioned.
Maritime freedom and safety
68) Prime Minister Shinzo Abe highly praised Viet Nam ’sefforts toward the settlement of issues including those in the area ofmaritime security based on the principle of the rule of law. Mindful ofair and maritime linkages between Viet Nam and Japan in theregion, Prime Minster Shinzo Abe stressed that any unilateral andcoercive action to challenge peace and stability should not beoverlooked. The two sides affirmed that peace and stability at sea werein the common interest of both countries as well as of the internationalcommunity. They also shared the position that all relevant partiesshould comply with international law including the United NationsConvention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They concurred on theimportance of maintaining maritime security and safety, upholding thefreedom of the high seas including the freedom of navigation andoverflight and unimpeded commerce, and ensuring self-restraint and theresolution of disputes by peaceful means in accordance with universallyrecognized principles of international law including UNCLOS. They alsoshared the view that Code of Conduct (COC) in South China Sea shouldbe concluded at an early date.
Korean Peninsula
69) The two sides encouraged North Korea to fully comply withits obligations under all relevant UNSC Resolutions and commitmentsunder the Joint Statement of the Six-Party Talks on 19 September 2005,and supported complete and verifiable denuclearization in the KoreanPeninsula . They shared the intention to strengthen efforts to resolvethe issue of abductions, which is a humanitarian concern of theinternational community. The Vietnamese side stated its readiness towork within its capacity with Japan to promote the resolution ofthis abductions issue.
Tokyo
18 March 2014
Mr. Truong Tan Sang
President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
Mr. Shinzo Abe
Prime Minister of Japan
