Hanoi and Fukuoka Prefecture Strengthen Cooperation
Hanoi and Japan's Fukuoka Prefecture have embarked on a new phase of collaboration, particularly focused on health initiatives and cultural exchanges.
During recent discussions, Fukuoka Prefecture's Council Chairman Kohara Katsuji expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership with Hanoi, highlighting key milestones of cooperation. The meetings underscored the mutual benefits derived from shared projects, especially the 'One Health' initiative, aimed at improving environmental and health standards.
Katsuji emphasized, "The One Health program aims to create the best living environment for people, and its successful implementation will be significant for Hanoi and Vietnam as a whole. We're grateful for the support from the Hanoi authorities and look forward to finalizing the memorandum of cooperation to promote One Health soon."
Hanoi’s Deputy Chairman Nguyen Manh Quyen recognized the growth of the collaboration especially as Vietnam and Japan strengthen their bilateral ties. He acknowledged all efforts, stating, "The cooperation between Hanoi and Fukuoka has flourished, particularly between our People's Council and Fukuoka Prefecture's Council. All aspects of the cooperation—ODI, FDI, cultural exchanges—have yielded practical results, contributing positively to both regions and nations."
Quyen referred to Vietnam and Hanoi's significant restructuring and reform methods as they pursue comprehensive modernization. He concluded, "Under the guidance of General Secretary To Lam and the Central Party’s policies, our revitalization efforts have seen promising results, gaining the support of the political apparatus and the public."
Detailing development strategies, Quyen mentioned initiatives along the Red River and reiterated the significance of the Capital Law for these developmental efforts. Regarding One Health, he highlighted Hanoi's advancements, such as introducing individual health monitoring for citizens and committing to annual health check-ups.
"Hanoi greatly values the One Health program due to its alignment with our developmental needs," added Quyen. He proposed establishing a comprehensive five-year plan for One Health collaboration to create clear execution tasks as well as evaluate outcomes annually to strengthen partnership quality. His ambition was made clear: to build on 15 years of cooperation between Hanoi and Fukuoka.
"We anticipate enhanced collaboration across various sectors, including student exchange, cultural activities, and healthcare initiatives," he noted.
The 'One Health' program reflects multilateral approaches to human health, animal health, and environmental health, leveraging Japan's quality healthcare systems against infectious diseases. This program also aligns with many UN Sustainable Development Goals, addressing issues such as newly emerged communicable diseases, climate change, and conservation concerns.
During the talks, Hanoi City Council Chairman Nguyen Ngoc Tuan shared insights about Hanoi’s socio-economic progress as of 2024, assuring Fukuoka representatives of the stability and safety it offers to international visitors and hosts key national events.
Tuan recounted the historical ties between Vietnam and Japan, stating, "The relationships between the two have continuously developed and accomplished remarkable success across many fields." He noted the various delegations sent from Hanoi to Fukuoka for knowledge and cultural exchange, enhancing the mutual respect and friendship established.
Upon concluding the discussions, Tuan expressed hope for the two cities to work tightly together to maximize the outcomes of their partnerships and contribute to the broader Vietnam-Japan strategic alliance.
To formalize the results from their talks and strategies for future collaboration, the Hanoi City Council and the Fukuoka Prefectural Council signed agreements to boost mutual cooperation from 2025 to 2028, incorporating the One Health program. This reinforces the framework for strengthening infectious disease prevention and healthcare delivery.
This newfound commitment reflects the dedication both Hanoi and Fukuoka have to build shared solutions addressing contemporary issues like health and environmental safeguards, ensuring the welfare of their communities and economies grows sustainable.
Both regions are eager to see their joint efforts flourish under the newly confirmed plans. Residents from both places are optimistic, hoping for more community ties, enhanced educational exchanges, and mutual cultural appreciation to blossom from this partnership, spelling brighter prospects for regional development.
This collaboration between Hanoi and Fukuoka signifies more than just local relationships; it exemplifies the shared global vision for improving health and welfare standards, paving the way for innovative solutions to emerge from synergistic efforts.
With efforts underway to solidify these cooperative ties, citizens from both Fukuoka and Hanoi await the exciting developments this strengthened partnership will surely bring, marking another chapter of successful cross-culture engagement.