Japanese Emperor Akihito welcomes President Truong Tan Sang (Source: VNA)

President Truong Tan Sang has told Japanese Emperor Akihito that Vietnam always gives top priority to developing bilateral ties with Japan in a hope to further the relationship for the benefit of both peoples.

After the official welcome ceremony held for him on March 17, President Sang, now on his state visit to Japan from March 16-19, further praised the beautiful country with long-lasting culture and hardworking and creative people as well as outstanding economic growth admired by the whole world.

He thanked the warm sentiments that the Emperor, the Royal family and Japanese people have given to Vietnam.

The Emperor said he appreciates Vietnam’s support to his country over the past years, especially after the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami disasters.

Both host and guest highly valued the success of activities marking the 40th anniversary of the Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties in 2013, saying that this will fuel the acceleration of bilateral ties to a new height.

The President also took the occasion to invite the Emperor, his wife and members of the Japanese royal family to visit Vietnam, and the invitation was accepted with pleasure.

President Sang and his wife are to join a state banquet hosted by the Emperor later the same day.

VNA