Vietnam Ready to Cooperate with Japan in TPP Talks

Hanoi, Sept. 21 (Jiji Press)--Vietnam is "ready to work closely" with Japan in Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade negotiations, Vietnamese Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh has said. "Vietnam is willing to cooperate with all members of the TPP negotiations, and particularly with Japan," Minh said in written answers to questions submitted by Jiji Press. The two countries have a good relationship and many years of working together, he noted. The minister added that Vietnam's participation in the TPP talks represents its determination to continue to be involved in international integration. With Vietnam and Japan marking the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations on Saturday, the Southeast Asian country considers the relationship a "top priority in our foreign policy," he said. Minh also said Vietnam has decided to continue working with Japan in construction of a nuclear power plant in the southern province of Ninh Thuan after assessing Japanese technology, especially safety and operational experience. Vietnam did not change course despite the nuclear accident at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 plant in northeastern Japan. Given that Japan is the largest provider of official development assistance to and foreign direct investment in Vietnam, the minister said that the Vietnamese government and the people appreciate and thank Japan for its support. Vietnam will boost efficiency in the use of ODA and is committed to making three strategic breakthroughs--promoting a market economy, developing human resources and improving infrastructure--to create a better investment and business environment, he said. As for territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea, Minh underlined the importance of confidence building through compliance with international law and by promoting dialogue. END