Preventing Japanese ODA related Corruption, aimed at blocking the recurrence of similar misconducts and winning back trust on ODA for Viet Nam. In February 2009, the Report of Japan-Vietnam Joint Committee for Preventing Japanese ODA related Corruption was released. Based on this report, Japan has responded by taking such measures as introducing quality and cost-based selection, making negotiated contracting more strict, and establishing an office to assess information related to fraud and corruption in a unified manner. In addition, Vietnam is advancing such efforts as improving the transparency of procurement procedures, and drafting a code of ethical conduct that all persons related to ODA project tenders are to abide by, whether public or private sector. Japan also plans to expand the applicable results from these efforts to other aid-receiving countries in order to improve overall transparency of ODA projects.

In consideration of the aforementioned incident, an exploratory committee was established under the Foreign Minister and formed of external advisors in order to conduct deliberations aimed at preventing the reoccurrence of similar fraud and corruption. The committee compiled a report in September 2009. Specifically, the report included such measures as strengthening measures and regulations for corporations and utilizing the Office on Information relating to Fraud and Corruption. MOFA intends to promptly implement the measures contained in this report in the future.

## (4) Securing the Safety of Personnel Engaged in Development Assistance

The public order in developing countries where ODA personnel are involved in development operations varies considerably and changes constantly. In addition, since the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, tensions in the Middle East and South Asia have increased. As well, frequent global terrorist activities still exist. In implementing peace building activities, how to safeguard ODA personnel has become a considerably critical issue.

In Japan, the government examines the domestic security situation in the country through mainly Japanese embassies, provides travel information, and exchanges and shares information among people engaging in ODA. JICA takes measures such as providing particular training and seminars before they leave Japan, ensuring communication means in emergency situations in the destination, deploying safety officers, (Note 58) and installing security equipment in the living quarters of ODA personnel. In addition, JICA prepares security manuals tailored to the security conditions of the various countries and regions by exchanging information with Japanese embassies and local offices of international organizations, and it implements other appropriate and timely security measures. As well, efforts are being made to enhance safety, as joint training for emergency and risk management is conducted with JICA and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). In terms of grant aid, JICA provides information for consultants and construction contractors, while also improving the system for communication during emergencies. As for loan aid, efforts are made to ensure the safety of Japanese corporations that take on projects through such measures as the provision of information.