(VOVworld) – The Vietnamese  government and people attach a great deal of importance to their friendly ties with Japan.

Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang told Japan’s Prince Akshino at a reception for him on Friday that the two countries’ relationship are a top priority in Vietnam’s foreign policies. President Sang underlined that Vietnam and Japan will mark the 40^th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year, which will strengthen mutual trust and understanding. Sang said the Vietnamese government has set up a steering committee to coordinate the activities during the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Year in 2013 and added that he hoped that Japan will assist Vietnam to celebrate the event in Japan.

Prince Akshino said he wished the Vietnamese government would help Japan’s delegation and make their visit a success by reaching the country’s goals on environmental protection and bio-diversity preservation.