The Vietnamese Party leader was received by the governor Wataru Aso, who spoke highly of Mr Manh’s visit to Japan.

Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh said that Vietnam always attaches great importance to strengthening its relationship and cooperation with Japan.

He praised the contributions Fukuoka has made in strengthening ties with Vietnam, particularly in the fields of economics, trade, investment, culture and education. Fukuoka mainly exports steel, vehicles and various kinds of machinery to Vietnam. Many big Japanese investors run businesses in Vietnam, and the number of Japanese visitors to Vietnam has shot up thanks to the direct air service from HCM City to Fukuoka, he added.

The Party leader also highlighted the role he Vietnamese General Consulate in Fukuoka has played, saying it has done a great job in boosting the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

In February 2008, Hanoi and Fukuoka signed an agreement to promote cultural exchanges and cooperate in economics, business and tourism.

Fukuoka is considered by many to be a melting pot of Asian cultures. It has many key economic sectors, including the auto industry, bio technology, hydro-electricity, robotics, and digital and information technology. Fukuoka also has one of Japan’s biggest seaports and airports, and is renowned for its human resources training.