HÀ NỘI – The Vietnamese Government and people always attach great importance to relations with Japan, President Trần Đại Quang said during a meeting with Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko in Tokyo on May 30.

President Quang hoped that his State visit to Japan will open up new development phase in Việt Nam-Japan ties, towards a more intensive and effective manner, bringing practical benefits to people of both sides and for regional and global peace, stability, co-operation and development.

The State leader and his spouse expressed their impression on the visit to Việt Nam made by the Japanese royal couple in 2017, adding that their visit has deepened mutual trust and understanding between the two countries’ people, contributing to elevating bilateral ties to new heights.

On the occasion, they invited members of the Japanese Imperial Family to visit Việt Nam at a convenient time.

For their part, the Japanese royal couple thanked President Quang and his spouse for the warm welcome they received during their visit to Việt Nam last year. They affirmed that they treasure the Việt Nam-Japan co-operation and friendship and will do their utmost to further develop ties.

Japanese Emperor Akihito underlined that cultural and people-to-people exchanges, particularly during the year when the two countries are celebrating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations, are very important for the development of bilateral ties as they serve to boost to mutual trust and understanding.

On May 30, President Quang and his spouse were scheduled to attend a national banquet hosted by the Emperor and Empress at the Imperial Palace.

In the morning, the Japanese royal couple hosted an official welcome ceremony for President Quang and his spouse. President Quang is the first foreign State leader to pay a State visit to Japan this year. — VNS