Hanoi seeks continued JICA support for science-driven development

THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi has called on the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to continue accompanying the capital in its next phase of development under the city’s 100-year master plan, as it shifts toward a model driven by science and technology, innovation and digital transformation.

The call was made by Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Nguyen Duy Ngoc during a meeting with JICA Chief Representative in Vietnam Kobayashi Yosuke on February 5.

Ngoc praised JICA-funded projects in Vietnam and the capital, saying they have delivered tangible results and reaffirming Hanoi’s consistent support for cooperation with the agency.

He said Hanoi is pursuing fast, sustainable and modern development and briefed JICA representatives on key orientations of the capital’s 100-year master plan.

The plan adopts a multi-directional, multi-layered and multi-center model, with transport infrastructure designed to closely link the urban core, satellite cities and neighboring provinces.

“Development will follow principles of synchronization and modernity and align with the city’s growth roadmap," said Ngoc.

He said Hanoi has adopted a development model centered on science and technology, innovation and digital transformation and, citing Japan’s experience, particularly that of Tokyo, called on JICA to continue accompanying the capital in its next development phase.

JICA Chief Representative in Vietnam Kobayashi Yosuke reviewed key milestones in cooperation with Hanoi and recent joint projects, noting that most have progressed smoothly despite some near-term challenges.

He affirmed JICA’s commitment to overcoming obstacles and continuing to support Hanoi’s development under its 100-year vision, saying the agency stands ready to share experience and work alongside the city on its new development path.

During the meeting, both sides discussed issues of mutual interest. Yosuke highlighted Japan’s strengths in urban railways and expressed confidence that applying Japanese technology in this field would meet the expectations of Hanoi residents.

Regarding JICA-supported projects at the Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, he said Japan highly values the complex’s significant potential.

Responding to JICA’s views, Ngoc stressed that as Hanoi advances toward becoming a smart city, standards and technical norms are critical to ensure coherence.

He noted that this represents a shift from earlier cooperation with JICA, which focused on individual sectors, and said adjustments in approach are therefore necessary and already underway.

Referring to two newly launched multi-purpose urban areas, he said the capital aims to bring housing for about one million residents into operation as soon as possible.

To attract residents and make these areas truly livable, he underscored the need for strong transport links, effective supporting services and smart solutions.

He added that Hanoi is intensifying measures to reduce complexity and improve environmental performance, particularly in waste management, while aiming to eliminate serious flooding from 2026 onward.

The city is also stepping up efforts to ease traffic congestion through studies of corridors, routes and intersections and by implementing appropriate solutions to prevent the emergence of chronic bottlenecks, in tandem with urban order and streetscape upgrades.

These efforts reflect Hanoi’s determination to accelerate progress toward a civilized and modern capital. He welcomed JICA’s continued partnership and support.

The Hanoi Party chief said the city will assign technical teams to work with JICA to detail and propose additional cooperation directions that align with the city’s priorities.