Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe conveyed his New Year wishes to all Vietnamese when talking over the phone with his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Tan Dung on February 13.

Both sides expressed delight at the strong development of the bilateral relationship, as evidenced by the upgrade of the ties to the extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia in 2014.

They affirmed to continue working closely with each other to further the cooperation efficiently in all aspects in the interests of the two peoples and for peace, stability, cooperation and development in Asia-Pacific and the world.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular visits and exchanges at all levels, in particular high-ranking ones, as well as effectively implementing cooperative mechanisms and dialogues.

PM Nguyen Tan Dung suggested both sides coordinate closely in carrying out high-level economic agreements, particularly Vietnam’s industrialisation strategy within the Vietnam-Japan cooperation framework.

He proposed the Japanese side increase help for Vietnam in restructuring the economy, improving its competitiveness and developing the support industry and agriculture.

PM Shinzo Abe declared that Japan will enhance its economic, trade and investment ties with Vietnam, while maintaining the provision of official development assistance (ODA) for the country’s socio-economic development, infrastructure upgrade and climate change response.

He also pledged to collaborate with and support Vietnam in Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations.

During the talks, the two PMs also exchanged opinions on regional and international issues of mutual concern, agreeing to strengthen coordination at multilateral forums and international organisations.

The Japanese Government leader also expressed concern over unilateral acts that altered the status quo in the East Sea and run counter to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea, while showing his backing of the settlement of maritime issues on the basis of international law.-VNA