Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his wife warmly greeted Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and his wife at their car, reflecting great respect and cordiality.

After a warm handshake, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and his wife received vibrant bouquets of flowers from children representing the capital city of Hanoi.

As the two leaders stepped onto the honor podium, the national anthems of Japan and Vietnam resounded. In a solemn atmosphere, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru stood respectfully in front of the national flags of both countries.

Amidst the stirring music, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh invited Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru to inspect the honor guard of the Vietnam People's Army. Following this, the two leaders introduced members of their high-level delegations and witnessed the honor guard parade.

After the welcome ceremony, the two Prime Ministers proceeded to the Government Office for official talks.

Over the past 52 years of establishment, nurturing, and development, the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Japan have been continuously strengthened and comprehensively expanded across all fields. In November 2023, the two nations elevated their ties to a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World."

Japan is currently Vietnam’s largest provider of ODA and concessional loans, the largest labor cooperation partner, the third-largest investor, and the fourth-largest partner in trade and tourism.

The visit of Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru holds profound significance. In addition to reinforcing political trust, leaders of the two countries will engage in deep discussions on various areas of strategic cooperation.

Prior to the welcome ceremony, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and his wife laid wreaths at the Monument to Heroic Martyrs on Bac Son Street and paid tribute at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

During the visit, Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh are scheduled to engage in public diplomacy activities and attend the High-Tech, Green Transition, and Semiconductor Forum. Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru will also have meetings with other senior Vietnamese leaders and participate in several important events.

Tran Thuong - Le Anh Dung