This visit by Vietnam’s leadership to Japan showcased an unprecedented level of diplomatic courtesy from the Japanese side, yet ultimately could not overcome one fundamental reality: the distinction between China and Japan.
The Vietnamese delegation’s trip was a follow-up visit, not a state visit, yet the reception exceeded standard protocol throughout. Upon landing at Haneda Airport, the welcome party included the grandson of a former prime minister and a deputy minister from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ceremonial welcome was held at Akasaka Palace—designated as a venue for foreign heads of state—highlighting the exceptional status accorded to the visitors.
The highest honor came when the Vietnamese leader delivered a speech before the National Diet, prompting a sustained standing ovation from all members of parliament—a level of recognition reserved for the most distinguished foreign guests.
Several carefully orchestrated details further underscored the symbolic significance: former Minister of Finance Takashi Kawamura guided the Vietnamese delegation in bowing toward the Japanese national flag; the First Lady wore a kimono and performed a tea ceremony as a gesture of respect, interpreted by Vietnamese officials as a sign of cultural convergence. Even Vietnam’s former prime minister traveled to Tokyo to personally receive the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun from the Emperor, reinforcing the ceremonial grandeur of the occasion.
The accompanying delegation was equally comprehensive, including top officials from seven core sectors—organization, defense, public security, foreign affairs—and leaders from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, both of which host major Japanese development projects.
Beneath the polished presentation lay tangible exchanges of interest. Japan has long been Vietnam’s largest aid provider, offering annual ODA loans ranging from $3 to $4 billion, with cumulative disbursements totaling approximately $23 billion. Japanese firms rank third globally in investment volume within Vietnam, and bilateral trade reached over $52 billion annually.
While both sides publicly refer to each other as strategic partners, their language reveals a clear asymmetry: Vietnam designates China as the primary focus of its foreign policy, while Japan is described merely as an important partner. No formal joint declaration was issued—only a shared vision statement outlining future cooperation initiatives.
Japan’s offer was substantial: financial and technical support for LNG power plants, intent to pursue nuclear energy collaboration, joint ventures in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and data centers, and alignment on rare earth supply chains. In return, Japan will provide security equipment to Vietnam’s Coast Guard. Vietnam’s counterpart commitment includes access to its rare earth resources and support for Japan’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
Beyond these, Vietnam’s North-South High-Speed Rail project—a multi-billion-dollar national infrastructure initiative—is Japan’s most sought-after objective. After two years of suspension due to funding shortfalls, the project is now moving forward through phased tenders. Japan aims to leverage the final opportunity to export its Shinkansen technology, offering loan financing contingent upon full adoption of Japanese systems. Vietnam has made clear its intention not to be reduced to a low-end manufacturing hub.
Vietnam’s public favorability toward Japan has consistently remained above 80 percent. With around 600,000 Vietnamese workers residing in Japan—the largest foreign community in the country—combined with decades of economic assistance, the foundation of popular sentiment is deeply entrenched.
In the broader context of Southeast Asian geopolitical competition, the U.S.-Japan division of labor is distinct: the United States focuses on security architecture, while Japan emphasizes economic engagement. Vietnam occupies a pivotal position within this emerging framework. Aware of the limited window for external support, Vietnam skillfully balances diplomatic gestures with concrete gains in development financing and technological transfer, maintaining strategic neutrality throughout.
Ultimately, this visit represents a mutually beneficial transaction: Japan secures a critical strategic foothold in the region, while Vietnam secures a vital development window. The ceremonial displays were symbolic acts of goodwill, but the real substance lies in energy projects, high-speed rail, and semiconductor industries—core components of the actual agreement.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881633240012811/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.