The programme aims to mark the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the bilateral diplomatic relations and to tighten the Vietnam – Japan relations in the fields of trade, culture, education and people-to-people exchange.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chairman of the Can Tho People’s Committee Vo Thanh Thong stressed that over the past 45 years, Vietnam and Japan have always strived to push up bilateral relations in various spheres. In the city, many Vietnam – Japan economic and cultural organizations have been established and operated with a high efficiency.

The Vietnamese Government in general and the administration of Can Tho city in particular are trying to improve the investment environment and perfect the infrastructure such as sea port, international airport, and high-speed and elevated railway systems. All these are to create the best conditions for foreign investors, especially those from Japan, Thong highlighted.

VCCI President Vu Tien Loc said the two-way trade between Vietnam and Japan has been on a constant rise in terms of both volume and revenue. More and more localities between the two countries are establishing twin and cooperative relations and exchanging experiences in the application of science and technology, education, and so on.

For his part, Japanese Consul General Kawaue Junichi reviewed the fine development of the Vietnam – Japan relations over the past 45 years and expressed his strong belief on the bilateral cooperation in the time to come. He spoke highly of Can Tho city’s efforts in holding the annual event, and took note of its coordination with the Vietnam Airlines in opening a direct air route linking Japan with Can Tho which, he said, will facilitate Japanese entrepreneurs who seek investment chances in the city. The diplomat also called this a landmark in the development of the Vietnam – Japan relations.