Minister of National Defence, General Phung Quang Thanh and Japanese defence minister Itsunori Onodera affirmed to do their best to strengthen friendship, mutual trust and understanding between the two armies at their talks in Hanoi on September 16.

A Japanese high-ranking delegation led by defence minister Itsunori Onodera is now on an official visit to Vietnam at the invitation of defence minister General Phung Quang Thanh.

General Thanh welcomed his counterpart Itsunori Onodera in his first official visit to Vietnam in the post of defence minister, expressing his belief that this visit would deepen strategic partnership ties between the two countries.

At talks, the two defence ministers also discussed ways to promote defence ties in the coming time. Defence Minister Thanh also asked the Japanese side to help Vietnam with technology and equipment dealing with unexploded ordnance left from wars.

For his part, Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera thanked the host for hospitality. The Japanese minister also noted that the bilateral defence exchange and cooperation between the two countries has been implemented actively and effectively over the recent time. He expressed his belief that the visit will help further boost defence cooperation in the coming time.

The two ministers also shared their views on international and regional issues of mutual concerns. They also agreed to promote defence policy dialogue at senior level and provide training for officers.

During their stay in Vietnam, the Japanese delegation will visit Military Academies, Commando School, the High Command of Naval Zone 4.-VNA