Vietnam’s Phuc Hopeful for Japan’s Role over South China Sea

October 8, 2018

Hanoi- Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Saturday voiced hope for Japan's contributions to efforts to peacefully resolve the tensions in the South China Sea, where China is increasing its military presence.

He said he hopes Japan will continue to play a responsible role as an important country in the Asia-Pacific region, indicating Vietnam's willingness to maintain cooperation with Japan.

The prime minister made the comments in an interview with media organizations including Jiji Press and also through answering questions in a statement ahead of his visit to Japan from Sunday.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam.

Phuc said interactions of people have allowed the two countries to build bridges of friendship and form an important foundation of their ties.

He said bilateral cooperation is developing strongly in economy and other fields.

At the same time, the prime minister said efforts need to be made so as not to undermine good bilateral relations, apparently having in mind a recent increase in crimes committed by Vietnamese students and technical interns in Japan.

During his stay in Japan, Phuc will hold talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

He will also attend a summit of Japan and five Southeast Asian countries along the Mekong River to be held in Tokyo on Tuesday.

Phuc said he wants Japan to remain a partner of the Mekong countries in achieving the region's development, seeking assistance in infrastructure development, water resources management and the fight against climate change. Jiji Press