Vietnam and Japan have reached an agreement to enhance their defence cooperation, focusing on strategic areas such as military training, cybersecurity, defence industry development, United Nations peacekeeping efforts, and post-war recovery initiatives. This agreement was solidified during a meeting in Hà Nội between General Phan Văn Giang, Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, and General Uchikura Hiroaki, Chief of Staff of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces. The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral defence relations and optimizing the implementation of existing cooperation agreements.
General Giang underscored Vietnam’s dedication to advancing consultation and dialogue mechanisms, widening cooperation among military branches, and fostering collaboration in defence technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. He pointed out that the defence partnership has become a cornerstone of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and Japan. Furthermore, General Giang acknowledged Japan’s contributions in areas such as personnel training, defence industry development, technology transfer, and post-war recovery projects. He advocated for more scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defence personnel, particularly in science, engineering, and technology domains.
Japan continues to be a vital economic and strategic ally for Vietnam, with robust cooperation that includes trade, investment, development assistance, and labour exchanges. The defence relationship between the two nations has expanded considerably, supported by regular policy dialogues and military consultations. General Uchikura reiterated Japan’s commitment to fortifying defence ties with Vietnam, expressing support for heightened cooperation in high-level exchanges, military education, cybersecurity, and healthcare services within the armed forces.
Both nations agreed to maintain close coordination to further build mutual trust, enhance regional stability, and nurture long-term strategic cooperation. This development marks a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between Vietnam and Japan, aiming to address contemporary security challenges and strengthen the foundation for future engagements.