Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and his Japanese counterpart Abe Shinzo during the former's official trip to Japan in October 2018. — VNA/VNS Photo Thống Nhất

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam appreciated Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo’s important contributions to the development of bilateral relations for the sake of the two countries’ people and for peace, prosperity, cooperation and development in the region and the world, said the Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Lê Thị Thu Hằng.

Hằng made the statement while answering reporters’ queries about PM Abe Shinzo’s declaration to resign on August 28, reportedly due to flare-ups of his chronic health issues.

PM Abe Shinzo has been trusted by the Japanese people for years, she said, adding that he is a leader who has made many contributions to the development of Japan and promotion of cooperation in different fields in the region and the world.

“Việt Nam wishes PM Abe Shinzo good health and happiness and continuing to make important contributions to the development of Japan as well as the cooperation and friendship between Việt Nam and Japan,” the spokeswoman said.

The two countries officially set up diplomatic ties in 1973, and upgraded to "Extensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia” in 2014. — VNS