The delegation of Hokkaido Prefecture led by its Governor Suzuki Naomichi and representatives from Japanese enterprises are welcomed at Vân Đồn International Airport. — VNA/VNS Photo

QUẢNG NINH — In a groundbreaking move, a delegation from Japan’s Hokkaido prefecture led by Governor Naomichi Suzuki touched down at Vân Đồn International Airport in Quảng Ninh Province on November 16. This marks the inaugural flight connecting these two regions, both brimming with tourism potential.

Onboard were 274 passengers, including the delegation and Japanese business representatives. The welcoming ceremony, attended by Nguyễn Thị Hồng Hạnh, Deputy Director of the Quảng Ninh Department of Foreign Affairs, celebrated this milestone.

The visit is part of the Hokkaido Festival in Hạ Long in 2023, commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Việt Nam and Japan, and the 60th founding anniversary of Quảng Ninh Province.

The event seeks to strengthen the cooperation agreement between Hokkaido and Quảng Ninh signed on September 9, 2022. It aims to foster friendly relations, deepen mutual understanding, and promote extensive cooperation in their respective strengths.

During the welcoming ceremony, representatives of Quang Ninh province and Van Don International Airport invited the Hokkaido delegation to explore potential trade and tourism exchanges between the two regions.

Governor Naomichi Suzuki expressed joy and surprise at the fully booked inaugural flight, underscoring the significant interest of the Japanese people in Quảng Ninh and Việt Nam.

Representatives of Vân Đồn International Airport expressed their desire for authorities of Hokkaido and Quảng Ninh to support airlines in opening direct flights between the two regions.

Market surveys indicate a keen interest from Japanese tourists in exploring UNESCO World Heritage Site Hạ Long Bay and other renowned destinations International Airport in Quảng Ninh.

A representative of Vân Đồn International Airport said Japan is a potential market, with several charter flights having landed at Vân Đồn. The province is continuing to explore collaborations with airlines to operate charter flights from South Korea, China, and Japan to Vân Đồn, paving the way for regular international routes.

After nearly five years in operation, international flights from Vân Đồn International Airport have connected to China, South Korea, and Japan. To date, the airport has serviced 6,131 takeoffs and landings, including 560 international flights, with a total of 755,000 passengers passing through. The airport has handled around 3,000 tonnes of cargo, maintaining operational security and safety according to regulations. — VNS