Japan's Crown Prince Akishino visits Viet Nam

Japanese Crown Prince Akishinoand his wife, Crown Princess Kiko, meet Vietnamese Vice President VoThi Anh Xuan during their five-day visit to Viet Nam.

The trip takes place as both countries mark the 50th anniversary of their bilateral relations, and Tokyo is deepening ties with the Southeast Asian nation.The two nations have maintained close diplomatic and trade ties, with Japan considered one of Vietnam's most important economic partners.Close to half a million Vietnamese people are living in Japan, according to Vietnamese state media, citing Japanese government figures.