Deputy chairman of the HCM City People’s Committee, Bùi Xuân Cường (right), gives gifts to Japanese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Komura Masahiro (left). HCM CITY is promoting cooperation with Japanese localities. - VNA Photo

HCM CITY - With its leading role in the economy and pioneering approach to foreign affairs and international integration, HCM City is promoting co-operation with Japanese localities and contributing to bilateral relations.

Bùi Xuân Cường, deputy chairman of the city People’s Committee, welcomed visiting Japanese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Komura Masahiro on March 11.

The relationship between Việt Nam and Japan is currently at its strongest ever, according to Cường.

The decision to elevate this relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World is an accurate recognition of the potential and opportunities for cooperation.

He appreciated the support and attention the Japan Vietnam Festival received from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This was great encouragement for the city and a vivid expression of the deep commitment to the development of bilateral relations, which has been nurtured by both countries for the past half-century.

HCM City had established cooperative relations with seven Japanese localities, he said.

It called on Masahiro to facilitate the establishment of direct channels of communication between businesses in the two countries for cooperation in exports, increasing export value and connecting the city with potential partners and innovation centres in Japan.

This would help the city access resources, experience and support in terms of technology and finance from Japan for developing in a green and sustainable manner, he said.

Masahiro expressed joy at visiting HCM City, especially at a time when the two countries successfully celebrated the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations and upgrade of their relationship into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World.

He said Japan wanted to further strengthen cooperation with Việt Nam under the new partnership, benefiting the two countries and the region.

He appreciated the successful organisation of the Japan Vietnam Festival in 2024 by the authorities and people of HCM City.

Japan values cooperation with the city and is ready to share experiences, technology and resources to contribute to its development, particularly for infrastructure development, according to the Japanese diplomat.

He was impressed by the dynamic development of HCM City and gave his thanks to its government for its support to Japanese businesses investing in the city.

He also hoped that the city would continue to improve its investment climate, create conditions for Japanese businesses to continue long-term investment and business operations, contributing to the development of bilateral relations. - VNS.