Vietnam and Japan sign cooperation commitment on disaster risk reduction

On the morning of September 5 in Tokyo, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan held a signing ceremony to extend the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation for the 2026–2030 period. This event carries great significance as the two countries have just launched the Medium- to Long-Term Agricultural Cooperation Vision Phase 3, reaffirming their long-term and comprehensive commitment.

The ceremony was co-chaired by Mr. Tran Duc Thang, Acting Minister of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam, and Mr. Nakano Hiromasa, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan.

Since the signing of the first Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in 2013, the two Ministries have jointly implemented a wide range of meaningful and substantive activities in the field of disaster risk reduction, yielding many important outcomes. One notable achievement has been the joint development and operation of a modern flood forecasting and management system for the Huong River basin in Hue, which is equipped with advanced X-band radar technology. This system has significantly improved the accuracy of rainfall forecasts and enhanced the capacity for effective flood control and management in the region.

Furthermore, Japan has provided technical support for research and the introduction of its SABO dam technology for flash flood prevention in the Nam Pam river basin, along with the construction of a pilot SABO dam in Son La province. This technology, which is highly effective in preventing and controlling sediment and debris flows, represents Japan’s cutting-edge expertise and has been applied in Vietnam for the very first time. Looking ahead, Vietnam intends to conduct further studies and explore wider application of this innovative technology across the country to strengthen disaster prevention and mitigation efforts.

Over the past decade, the two Ministries have maintained regular dialogues on disaster prevention and control, with a total of 13 dialogue sessions held to date. These dialogues have served as an important platform for the two sides to exchange information, share experiences, and jointly explore new solutions in disaster risk management.

Notably, many seasoned Japanese experts have come to work directly in Vietnam at the Vietnam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority, acting as a trusted bridge that has strengthened and deepened the cooperation between the two Ministries.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Minister Nakano Hiromasa highlighted that the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding signed today represents a significant step for both Ministries and their respective countries. It not only allows them to build upon the accomplishments achieved so far but also opens up new avenues for bilateral cooperation aimed at further enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

Acting Minister Tran Duc Thang expressed sincere appreciation for the timely and effective support that the Government and people of Japan have extended to Vietnam over the years. He further underscored that “the continued signing of the extended Memorandum of Understanding for the 2026–2030 period carries substantial importance, as it clearly reflects the strong commitment of both Ministries to deepen coordination, provide mutual assistance, and jointly strengthen efforts in disaster prevention, control, and risk mitigation.”

On this occasion, Minister Hiromasa officially invited Acting Minister Tran Duc Thang to attend GREEN EXPO 2027, hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

The exhibition is envisioned as a new-generation international gardening event that extends beyond traditional horticultural sectors such as flowers and ornamental plants. It aims to tackle broader global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable food production, while promoting innovative solutions and practices. By integrating these themes, the event seeks to contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The signing ceremony took place in a solemn, friendly, and trustful atmosphere, further reaffirming the sustainable, deep, and effective cooperation between Vietnam and Japan in the field of disaster risk reduction.