Elaine Lies, Khanh Viu

HANOI, (Reuters) – Japan and Vietnam reached an agreement on Sunday to increase economic and security ties and call for an end of the conflict in Ukraine. This was stated by Fumio Kirshida, Japanese Prime Minister.

Kishida, who met with Pham MinhChinh in Hanoi to discuss bilateral ties, said: “We will strengthen bilateral relations in order for the economies of both countries back on a clear recovery pathway in the aftermath of the coronavirus.”

Chinh claimed that they had agreed to increase cooperation post-pandemic, improve supply chains, and transition into energy in conformity with their mutual interests.

Japan is Vietnam’s third largest source of direct foreign investment and official development assistance. Vietnam Customs Data shows that bilateral trade increased 8.4% last fiscal year, to $42.9 billion.

Chinh, Kishida, and Chinh discussed how to respond to Russia’s invasion Ukraine. They also talked about South China Sea territorial disputes. These are areas where China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Malaysia have rival territorial claims.

Kishida stated that “any change to the status quo through force cannot be recognized,” referring specifically to the Ukraine crisis. “We all agree that war should be ended immediately.”

Kishida stated that he and Chinh had “also agreed” to oppose any attempt to alter the South China Sea status quo through force.

Similar discussions were held with Indonesia by Kishida on Friday.

Chinh announced that Vietnam had donated $500,000 towards humanitarian aid for Ukraine through international organizations.

According to him, Vietnam will begin to export longan to Japan starting in September. Then, other produce like grapefruit and avocado will be exported to Japan. Japan is also opening up its market to Japanese grapes.

Kishida stated that Japan would support a transition to alternative energy sources like hydrogen, biomass and ammonia for Vietnam. Vietnam has already committed to become carbon neutral by 2050.