Promoting friendship and relationship with Japan is among top priorities in Vietnam’s foreign policies.

At a reception for Japanese Prince Akishino in Hanoi on August 17, State President Truong Tan Sang said he is delighted at the constant development of bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and Japan, especially since their strategic partnership was established in 2009.

Mr Sang expressed his appreciation for Japan’s assistance to Vietnam’s socio-economic development and national construction and congratulated Japan on its reconstruction efforts following the tsunami and earthquake in March 2011.

He said he believes the Japanese people, with their strong determination, will be able to enjoy their prosperous development status in the region and the world as a whole.

The State leader said Vietnam has established a steering committee in preparation for the 40th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties in 2013. He said he hopes both countries will closely coordinate in a wide range of activity.

Mr Sang also took the opportunity to send his best wishes to the Japanese Emperor and Queen and invited them to visit Vietnam.

Prince Akishino thanked Vietnam for helping Japan overcome the consequences of the tsunami and earthquake in 2011 and said he is really impressed by a friendly country with similar historical and cultural traditions.

He hoped the Vietnamese government and local authorities will create the best possible conditions for his working visit to Hoa Binh and Hung Yen provinces to discuss measure to protect the environment and preserve biodiversity./.