During a meeting in Tokyo, Abe and Phuc also agreed that the international community should increase pressure on North Korea following its recent ballistic missile launches, in defiance of UN Security Council resolutions.

On the South China Sea situation, Abe told a joint press conference with Phuc after the meeting, "We shared the importance of promoting dialogue among concerned countries based on international law, as well as exercising self-restraint to avoid unilateral action."

Phuc said he and Abe agreed to promote a peaceful resolution of tensions in the sea.

Abe said Japan will powerfully assist Vietnam in enhancing its law enforcement capability at sea, including through the provision of new patrol ships. (Jiji Press)