Top �� What's up around the Prime Minister �� April, 2003

Prime Minister Meets with Prime Minister of Viet Nam Monday, April 7, 2003 Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi met with Prime Minister Phan Van Khai of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. During the meeting the leaders reached a basic agreement on the Japan-Viet Nam Investment Agreement, which includes matters such as the granting of most-favored-nation status in the extension of permission for investments. Furthermore, the leaders exchanged information and opinions on a broad spectrum encompassing Official Development Assistance (ODA) between Japan and Viet Nam, trade, investment, tourism, and human resources development. During the meeting, Prime Minister Khai had courtesy to say, "The cherry blossoms are in full bloom, which naturally indicates a portent of good relations between Japan and Viet Nam.", and went on to say, "Japan is the engine for the advancement of this region and also an important partner for Viet Nam. I would like us to build long-term, stable relations of mutual trust." For his part, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "I am glad that we reached a consensus on the Japan-Viet Nam Investment Agreement. I would like to move forward on consultations with Viet Nam concerning the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), including the Initiative for Japan-ASEAN Comprehensive Economic Partnership."