The information was released at a press briefing in Hanoi on September 5 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. About 300,000 Japanese visitors are expected to attend the event, the biggest of its kind hosted by Vietnam.

Under the programme, the Vietnam-Japan Economic Co-operation Forum will be held in Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo from September 17-19 with the participation of representatives from the two Governments, 100 Vietnamese businesses and 200-300 Japanese businesses. This will be a good chance for Vietnamese businesses to introduce the country’s potential to Japanese investors and call for more investment into Vietnam.

A photo exhibition on Vietnam’s land and people will take place in Tokyo on September 16-19. A cultural gala will be held at the same time featuring a wide range of special and unique art performances by the two countries’ artists.

The 2008 Vietnam Festival taking place in Yoyogi Park, Tokyo from September 19-21 will be the centerpiece of the Week. Display stands will be set up to introduce Vietnam’s land and people, Vietnamese and Japanese culinary art and Vietnamese traditional products.

On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Pham Gia Khiem sent a message of congratulation to the event, expressing hope that the week will help the two countries promote mutual understanding and co-operation in all fields.