Japan and Vietnam reaffirmed their commitment to promoting free and open trade during Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s official visit to Hanoi, emphasizing cooperation amid ongoing global economic challenges.
During meetings with Vietnamese leaders, Prime Minister Ishiba highlighted the importance of upholding international trade rules and ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders. Both nations agreed to deepen their economic partnership while maintaining a stable and rules-based global trading environment.
“The world economy is facing growing uncertainty, and its effects are becoming more evident across Southeast Asia,” Prime Minister Ishiba said after discussions with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. He stressed the value of strengthening bilateral ties to support sustainable economic growth.
The visit marks Ishiba’s first official trip to Vietnam, followed by his upcoming meeting in the Philippines, further reinforcing East Asia’s active role in fostering regional cooperation. Earlier this month, the United States implemented temporary bilateral tariffs on Vietnam and Japan; however, ongoing negotiations have led to a pause in these duties until July, allowing time for productive dialogue.
During a joint press conference, both leaders emphasized their shared vision of preserving an open international order rooted in the rule of law. They signed four cooperation agreements focused on areas such as energy transition and research and development in semiconductors, signaling a forward-looking partnership. Details of the agreements were not publicly disclosed.
Vietnam’s top officials also encouraged expanded Japanese investment in major infrastructure initiatives. Japan’s involvement in preliminary studies for a proposed high-speed railway connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City reflects the continued commitment to collaborative development projects, although the railway was not directly mentioned in the new agreements.
With Japan being one of Vietnam’s largest investors, both countries view this enhanced cooperation as essential for maintaining economic momentum and strengthening global supply chains.
This renewed partnership reinforces a broader commitment to resilience, innovation, and mutually beneficial growth in the global trade landscape.
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