In a significant move to bolster their strategic partnership, Việt Nam and Japan have agreed to enhance their defence cooperation across several key areas such as military training, cybersecurity, and defence industry development. The agreement was reached during a meeting in Hà Nội between Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence General Phan Văn Giang and General Uchikura Hiroaki, Chief of Staff of Japan’s Self-Defence Forces.
During the discussions, the two leaders explored ways to strengthen bilateral defence ties and improve the implementation of existing cooperation agreements. General Giang underscored Việt Nam’s commitment to fostering consultation and dialogue mechanisms, enhancing collaboration across military branches, and advancing cooperation in defence technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. He emphasized that the defence relationship has become a crucial component of the broader Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Việt Nam and Japan.
General Giang also highlighted Japan’s contributions to personnel training, defence industry development, technology transfer, and post-war recovery initiatives. He advocated for increased scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defence personnel, particularly in the fields of science, engineering, and technology. This reflects an ongoing effort to strengthen the professional capabilities of Việt Nam’s military personnel.
Japan, recognized as one of Việt Nam’s key economic and strategic partners, continues to support Việt Nam through extensive cooperation in trade, investment, development assistance, and labour exchanges. Defence cooperation between the two nations has significantly expanded, supported by regular policy dialogues and military consultations. General Uchikura reaffirmed Japan’s dedication to deepening defence ties with Việt Nam, expressing his support for enhanced collaboration 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, contribute to regional stability, and promote long-term strategic cooperation. This agreement marks an important step in the evolving defence relationship between Việt Nam and Japan, reflecting their shared commitment to strengthening regional security and advancing mutual interests.