Vietnamese Defence Minister Phung Quang Thanh received Japanese Vice Defence Minister Tokuchi Hideshi during the latter’s working visit in Hanoi on January 28.

At the reception, Minister Thanh affirmed that defence cooperation between the two countries has reached a new level, matching the bilateral strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan.

He added the two countries should continue exchanging visits, working together in dealing with mines left by the war, and sharing information and experience in coping with climate change and natural disasters.

In return, Tokuchi Hideshi asserted Japan has always valued its comprehensive ties with Vietnam, especially in national defence.

He said Japan hopes for stronger bilateral defence cooperation for mutual interests and for peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world as a whole.-VNA