At the meeting, Lịch presented the province’s economic advantages following the merger of Gia Lai and Bình Định, which has expanded its natural area to 21,577 square kilometers, making it the second largest in Vietnam, with a population of about 3.5 million.
The province now benefits from a seaport, an international border gate and two airports, including Phù Cát Airport, currently being upgraded to international status.
Infrastructure projects under way include the Quy Nhơn-Pleiku Expressway and a section of the North-South Expressway in the former Bình Định area, aimed at enhancing inter-regional connectivity.
Lịch also highlighted a list of investment projects and reaffirmed Gia Lai’s commitment to accompany investors, implement institutional reforms, and foster private sector growth.
She stressed the strong Vietnam-Japan partnership, upgraded in 2023 to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the world, with cooperation spanning energy, the digital economy, human resource development and social challenges.
Marubeni Lumber, which already operates a branch in Quy Nhơn, was encouraged to expand its investment scale in Gia Lai and introduce more Japanese partners to the province.
Lịch pledged full support from local authorities to ensure shared development.
Shimizu Fumitaka, Director of Marubeni Lumber, welcomed the delegation and outlined the company’s operations, product lines, and growth potential in Vietnam.
He voiced hopes for continued provincial support, particularly in the wood processing sector, to contribute to local socio-economic development.
During the visit, Lịch also toured the company’s product displays.