Seeking to strengthen the relationship between Japan and Vietnam, this program aims to contribute to the creation of a new relationship between the two countries by transferring some of the responsibility for exchange activities--which have thus far been conducted primarily through the central governments-- to the nonprofit sector and local governments. Specifically, the program provides platforms for local citizen organizations and government officials in Japan and Vietnam to exchange ideas on local governance and regional development by supporting two projects: "Promoting Exchange between Non-Governmental Organizations at the Local Level of Japan and Vietnam" and "Exchange and Experience Sharing between Local Government Officials from Japan and Vietnam."
In fiscal 2006, exchange activities such as site visits, seminars, and workshops were held with the participation of concerned parties from both countries. A Series of activities provided valuable opportunities for the development of personal relationships. By supporting these two projects simultaneously, the program successfully engaged a diverse range of people, including local government officials, participants of civil society organizations, and experts in related fields. It also helped to promote multi-tiered exchange among a variety of actors in both countries.