Vietnam becomes indispensable partner for Japan: consul general

The event also provided an opportunity to reflect on Vietnam-Japan relations, which are entering a phase of rapid development, particularly after the two countries officially upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia and the world in 2023.

Nguyen Cong Vinh, vice-chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, said the city is among the leading localities in cooperation with Japan.

As of the end of 2025, Japan ranked as the city’s third-largest foreign investor, with more than 2,200 projects and total registered capital exceeding US$15 billion.

Vinh added that 2026 marks a new era of development for the city, and Japan, with its technological expertise, management experience, high investment standards, and long-term vision, will remain a particularly important partner.

He said that cooperation between Ho Chi Minh City and Japan could serve as a model for local-level relations in the new era.

According to the vice-chairman, the city remains committed to building a facilitative and supportive administration, ensuring a transparent and efficient investment environment, and fostering an open space for cooperation.

The Japanese consul general expressed confidence that Japanese companies and organizations have strong potential to make significant contributions to the balanced economic development of southern Vietnam, including in digital transformation and green transition.

In cultural exchanges, the 11th Japan Vietnam Festival will be held over two days, on March 7 and 8, with the main venue at 23/9 Park in Ho Chi Minh City.

As the largest Japan-Vietnam exchange event in Vietnam, the festival’s organizers expressed hope that the public will take time to attend and experience the event.

Consul General Masuo recalled a story from 30 years ago involving then Japanese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Watanabe Michio, who played a key role in restoring Japan’s official development assistance to Vietnam and once said, “Thirty years from now, Vietnam will become a country that helps Japan.”

“Just as Watanabe Michio predicted, I am truly delighted to witness this vision become reality. After 30 years, Vietnam has developed strongly and become an indispensable partner of Japan,” Masuo said.