On behalf of the editorial board, Editor-in-Chief Nguyen Thi Hong Nga congratulated DECN President Harumitsu Takahashi on his recent appointment. She emphasized that NOC highly values expanding international partnerships with reputable and influential media organizations, particularly in construction and infrastructure.

NOC Editor-in-Chief Nguyen Thi Hong Nga (right) and DECN President Harumitsu Takahashi sign the memorandum of understanding in Hanoi, August 11. (Photo: Dang Ngan)

She proposed that future cooperation go beyond information exchange to include business networking, co-hosting events, developing English-language products, and facilitating reporter exchanges. Both sides will also focus on in-depth coverage of advanced technologies in transport infrastructure and the labor market in Vietnam and Japan.

"This MoU marks a new chapter in our partnership, creating a foundation for broader international engagement and effective implementation of Resolution No. 59 of the Politburo on global integration. I believe our cooperation will reflect the stature of both newspapers and the close ties between our countries", Mrs. Nguyen Thi Hong Nga said.

President Takahashi shared Japan’s experience merging the Ministry of Construction with the Ministry of Infrastructure into the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) 25 years ago. He expressed confidence in Vietnam’s decision to merge the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Construction, as well as the two newspapers under one ministry.

Former NOC Editor-in-Chief Nguyen Anh Dung, who helped lay the foundations of the relationship, expressed appreciation for DECN’s close and sincere cooperation over the past 12 years.

Under the MoU, the two newspapers will: Exchange accurate, high-quality information to meet the needs of businesses in both countries. Support Japanese enterprises seeking opportunities in Vietnam’s construction and transportation sectors, and vice versa for Vietnamese enterprises in Japan. Co-organize events, conferences, and workshops promoting Japanese science and technology in Vietnam, with full DECN support. Enhance their English-language websites by sharing content. Exchange reporters to foster mutual understanding of each country’s construction industry.

As more Vietnamese workers join Japan’s construction sector, NOC and DECN will increase coverage of Japanese construction sites employing Vietnamese labor, highlighting working conditions and showcasing the industry’s environment. DECN will also provide NOC with opportunities to visit Japanese projects and gather information directly.

The MoU signals a strengthened commitment to mutual growth, industry knowledge exchange, and closer media cooperation between Vietnam and Japan’s construction sectors.