(VOVworld) - Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said Vietnam considers Japan its close and long-term strategic partner. At a reception for Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida in Hanoi on Thursday, Prime Minister Phuc advocated closer cooperation and rapid implementation of signed agreements, focused on strengthening economic links at the central and local level.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida (Source: VNA)

 
He also called for higher possible ODA assistance and other support from the Japanese government to help Vietnam respond to climate change, particularly drought and saline intrusion.
He said he hopes Japan will make more effort to ensure security, safety, and navigation freedom, and peacefully resolve disputes in the East Sea in line with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. Minister Fumio Kishida said Japan greatly values its relations with Vietnam.