Vietnam, Japan Strengthen Hydrometeorology Cooperation

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà, during a meeting with a Japanese expert delegation in hydrometeorological forecasting on Monday, called for the implementation of more specific cooperation projects in the field. The aim is to establish a foundation for prioritizing collaborative initiatives between the two governments.

The delegation, led by former Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Hiroshi Fukada, was warmly received by Deputy PM Hà, who praised the flourishing Vietnam-Japan relationship, underscored by high-level political trust. The partnership, he noted, is currently at its strongest, fostering extensive bilateral and multilateral cooperation, including initiatives under the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) framework.

Highlighting Japan’s expertise in climate change adaptation and hydrometeorological forecasting, Hà emphasized Vietnam’s desire for technology transfer and innovative solutions to tackle challenges such as landslides and flash floods. He also commended existing collaborative projects and urged Japanese experts and businesses to develop concrete initiatives to be proposed as bilateral cooperation priorities.

Vietnam’s hydrometeorological sector has garnered regional recognition, with the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) designating Hanoi’s Regional Forecast Support Centre (RFSC Hanoi) as a hub for hazardous weather and flash flood warnings in Southeast Asia. To further enhance capabilities, Hà requested the Ministries of Natural Resources and Environment, and Agriculture and Rural Development to partner with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Weathernews Inc. for piloting additional radar systems and advancing technical research.

Former Ambassador Fukada extended condolences for the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Yagi this year and underscored the shared challenges of natural disasters faced by both countries. He highlighted the importance of robust forecasting and early warning systems alongside resilient infrastructure.

Weathernews Inc. representatives affirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration through initiatives like the Eagle X-band radar system provided under the WMO’s voluntary cooperation programme. The radar system has significantly enhanced Vietnam’s capacity to monitor and issue early warnings for natural disasters, and the company expressed its intent to further develop radar-based forecasting solutions.

The meeting reinforced the strong ties between Vietnam and Japan, setting the stage for deeper cooperation in hydrometeorology and climate change adaptation.