Japan and Vietnam agreed on May 2 to strengthen their partnership in economic security during talks held in Hanoi [1]. The agreement came as Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited Vietnam from May 2 to 3 to engage in discussions and deliver a speech on Japan’s updated free and open Indo-Pacific policy [1].
Japan is Vietnam’s largest provider of official development assistance and a significant investor and trading partner [1]. In 2025, two-way trade between the countries surpassed US$50 billion for the first time, underscoring the growing economic ties [1]. The leaders marked their discussions by signing six agreements that cover areas such as technology, climate preparedness, and information and communication [1].
Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung said the strategic partnership between the two nations will enter a "new phase of development," emphasizing the deepening cooperation [1]. An outcome document promoting cooperation in energy and artificial intelligence is expected following the summit talks, signaling further collaboration in advanced sectors [1].
Prime Minister Takaichi’s visit and the agreements reached reaffirm Japan’s role as a key partner in Vietnam’s economic growth and regional stability. The summit concluded with plans to release the cooperation document on energy and AI soon after the talks [1].
