Vietnam and Japan are set to expand their defence cooperation in several strategic areas, including military training, cybersecurity, and defence industry development. This decision follows a meeting in Hanoi 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. They discussed measures to enhance bilateral defence ties and more effectively implement existing agreements.
General Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s dedication to improving consultation and dialogue mechanisms while advocating for increased collaboration among military branches. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in defence technology, military medicine, and cybersecurity. According to Giang, defence relations have become a vital part of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and Japan.
The Vietnamese minister acknowledged Japan’s contributions to personnel training, defence industry development, technology transfer, and initiatives for post-war recovery. He urged for more scholarship and training opportunities for Vietnamese defence personnel, especially in science, engineering, and technology fields. Japan stands as a key economic and strategic partner for Vietnam, with robust cooperation in trade, investment, development assistance, and labour exchanges. Defence cooperation has notably expanded, supported by regular policy dialogues and military consultations.
General Uchikura expressed Japan’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with Vietnam. He voiced support for expanding cooperation in high-level exchanges, military education, cybersecurity, and healthcare services within the armed forces. Both countries agreed to maintain close coordination to boost mutual trust, regional stability, and long-term strategic cooperation.