HCMC – Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called on Japan to enhance its new-generation official development assistance (ODA) to support Vietnam’s strategic infrastructure development.
During a meeting on January 8 with Japan’s Minister of Finance Kato Katsunobu, PM Chinh expressed gratitude for Japan’s financial support for major projects, including the Nhat Tan Bridge, Terminal T2 at Noi Bai International Airport, and the Metro Line 1 in HCMC, according to the Vietnam News Agency.
Highlighting Vietnam’s efforts to restructure the Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Project in Thanh Hoa, PM Chinh asked the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to take a more active role in the restructuring process, emphasizing the importance of mutually beneficial cooperation.
The prime minister proposed Japan provide continued financial assistance and promote new-generation ODA tailored to Vietnam’s current needs. He suggested favorable interest rates, flexible mechanisms, and simplified procedures for implementing strategic projects.
Priority areas include the North-South high-speed railway, nuclear power, and urban rail systems in Hanoi and HCMC.
In addition to financial support, Chinh encouraged Japan to deepen cooperation in technology transfer, workforce training, institutional development, and capacity building on a larger scale.
Minister Kato expressed Japan’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial cooperation and reaffirmed his support for Vietnam’s strategic projects.
He pledged to report Vietnam’s requests to the Japanese government and engage with businesses to strengthen collaboration. The minister also confirmed discussions with JBIC on advancing the Nghi Son project, as requested by the Prime Minister.
