Vietnam always attaches importance to expanding the strategic partnership with Japan, said Deputy PM and FM Phạm Gia Khiem.

Deputy PM, FM Phạm Gia Khiem (R) welcomes Japanese Deputy FM Yutaka Banno, Hanoi, February 14, 2011.

The Deputy PM mentioned the statement at his reception to Japan’s Deputy FM Yutaka Banno on February 14 in Hanoi.

The Vietnamese leader informed the guest about the latest outcomes of the 11th National Party Congress, confirming that Vietnam will continue pursuing the independent and self-reliant foreign policy.

Deputy PM Khiêm spokes highly of the advancement of the bilateral strategic partnership, particularly after Japanese PM Naoto Kan\'s visit to Vietnam in October last year.

He also appreciated Japanese Government’s pledges to provide Vietnam with USD1.76 billion of ODA for the fiscal year of 2010, the record figure so far.

Mr. Yutaka Banno said Japan would like to strengthen the strategic ties with Vietnam on the basis of mutual trust.

The two sides agreed to further exchange working visits of the high ranking officials and elevate the role of Vietnam-Japan Cooperation Committee in implementing the bilateral agreements.

They also expected that cooperation between the two foreign ministries would be expanded in the time to come.

The same day, Mr. Yutaka Banno paid courtesy visits to Politburo member, Minister-Chairman of the Office of Government Nguyen Xuan Phuc, and held talks with Deputy FM Ho Xuan Son.