Japan PM to visit Vietnam, Australia to strengthen strategic partnerships

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi will visit Vietnam and Australia this week for talks with the leadership of both countries.

According to Kyodo News, the five-day trip will begin on May 1.

Cabinet Chief Secretary Minoru Kihara said the purpose of the visit is to deepen economic and defence ties amid the situation in the Middle East and growing Chinese activity in the region.

On May 2, Takaichi is scheduled to meet Vietnam’s president and the ruling party leader To Lam, as well as Prime Minister Le Minh Hung. On May 4, she will hold talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening strategic partnerships, including cooperation in economic security, energy, and the supply of critical resources.

The Japanese leader is also expected to deliver a speech in Vietnam on the “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” initiative launched by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

In Australia, the two sides are expected to agree on expanding cooperation in national and economic security. The visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the signing of the basic treaty on friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

By Vugar Khalilov