Commitment to Peace and Cooperation
Vietnam and Japan have reaffirmed their strong defence ties and commitment to regional stability during the 11th Vietnam-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue. The high-level meeting, held in Japan, focused on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation and addressing regional security concerns. Both sides expressed their determination to uphold peace, friendship, and development while respecting international laws.
Vietnam’s Foreign Policy and Defence Strategy
Vietnam reiterated its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and multilateral cooperation. The country remains committed to working with international partners to promote global peace and development. The officials highlighted the nation’s “Four No’s” defence policy, which ensures that Vietnam does not form military alliances, does not allow foreign military bases on its territory, does not use force in international relations, and does not rely on one country against another.
Focus on Maritime Security and the East Sea
A significant part of the discussions centered on maritime security in the East Sea, also known as the South China Sea. Vietnam stressed the importance of respecting international laws, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Officials called for increased efforts to finalize an effective and substantive Code of Conduct (COC) for the region. Vietnam urged all parties to adhere to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) to ensure peace and stability.
Japan’s Support for Regional Stability
Japan reaffirmed its strong defence ties with Vietnam and emphasized the need for cooperation in maintaining regional stability. Japanese officials highlighted their commitment to upholding international law and ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. They expressed confidence that the dialogue would further strengthen defence cooperation between the two nations.
Expanding Defence Cooperation
Since the last dialogue, defence cooperation between Vietnam and Japan has grown significantly. The two countries have collaborated in multiple areas, including:
– High-level delegation exchanges to enhance diplomatic and military relations.
– Military education and training to improve the skills of Vietnamese officers.
– Capacity-building programs to strengthen defence capabilities.
– Joint efforts in UN peacekeeping operations to contribute to global security.
– War legacy remediation to address the consequences of past conflicts.
– Military medicine and humanitarian assistance to provide aid in crisis situations.
– Search and rescue missions to improve emergency response efforts.
– Multilateral coordination at international forums to promote regional stability.
Both countries acknowledged the success of these initiatives and pledged to deepen their collaboration in these areas.
Vietnam’s Proposal for Further Collaboration
Vietnam proposed that Japan provide additional training opportunities and scholarships for its officers. The country also requested continued support for its participation in UN peacekeeping missions and war legacy remediation projects. Furthermore, Vietnam expressed its support for Japan’s deeper involvement in ASEAN-led security frameworks to strengthen regional cooperation.
Deepening Bilateral Trust and Future Prospects
The successful conclusion of the 11th Vietnam-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue highlights the deep trust and mutual respect between the two nations. Both sides emphasized that their defence partnership is not only about strengthening military capabilities but also about fostering long-term peace and security in the region. With the upcoming 12th dialogue, the two countries aim to further enhance strategic cooperation, address emerging security challenges, and explore new areas of collaboration, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Defence Ties
Both sides recognised the significant progress made in defence cooperation and agreed to explore further opportunities for collaboration. They pledged to enhance their defence relationship by focusing on agreed-upon areas and mechanisms discussed during the dialogue.
At the end of the meeting, officials invited their Japanese counterparts to visit Vietnam for the 12th edition of the Defence Policy Dialogue. The two delegation heads officially signed the minutes of the 11th dialogue, marking another step toward a stronger Vietnam-Japan defence partnership. This latest agreement reflects the growing security cooperation between the two nations, reinforcing their commitment to regional peace, stability, and mutual prosperity.