Tourists in Phu Quoc (Photo: VNA)

Impressive results in the tourist number and revenue in many southern localities in the first quarter of this year showed that the growth of sector of the region has remained stable, signaling a good summer season in the second quarter.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism reported that the southern hub welcomed 1.38 million international tourists and 8 million domestic ones in the period, representing year-on-year increases of 32% and 6.6%, respectively. Total revenue from tourism activities reached 44.7 trillion VND (nearly 1.79 billion USD), surging by nearly 24% from the same period last year.

In the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang, travel firms have offered many tours to ecological areas, beaches, and islands, which are popular choices for many tourists. The locality served over 2.7 million holiday-makers in the period, up over 22% year-on-year.

Its neighbour Dong Thap province, known for tourism products associated with agricultural production experience, craft village, ecotourism, and culture, attracted 1.15 million tourists in the last quarter, earning 480 billion VND in revenue.

According to Vice Director of the HCM City Department of Tourism Le Truong Hien Hoa, the 20th Tourism Festival of HCM City from April 4 – 7 was eagerly awaited by many tourists looking to purchase packages with many incentives.

At the event, accommodation, travel agencies, and culinary businesses introduced 400 tour programmes, accommodation and culinary services, and health care services combined with tourism.

The Saigontourist Travel Service Company said it offered many domestic and international tour packages with well-connected itineraries and diverse experiences, including those to domestic attractive destinations such as Phan Thiet, Da Lat, Nha Trang, Phu Yen, Con Dao, Vung Tau, and the Mekong Delta region, with flexible transportation options.

Similarly, the Vietnam Travel and Marketing Transports Joint Stock Company (Vietravel) offered various experiential tour packages with discounts, aiming to stimulate the demand in the summer tourism season.

To attract more visitors, Kien Giang’s tourism industry will continue to develop new products and focus on promoting and connecting more international flight routes to make it more convenient for the visitors, and providing products associated with environmental protection and community-based tourism towards ensuring a sustainable development for the sector./.

Vietnam Airlines plans to further increase flights during holidays

Vietnam Airlines has announced plans to address the supply problem in the aviation industry by increasing the number of night flights.

The airline intends to operate an additional 2,000 flights after 9pm daily on its routes to meet travel demand during the April 30 - May 1 holiday and the summer peak period.

The decision to increase night flights is driven by the shortage of aircraft in the aviation industry. By offering more choices and increasing flight capacity, Vietnam Airlines aims to accommodate the needs of passengers during this busy period.

The routes that will benefit from the additional flights include those between Hà Nội, HCM City, Đà Nẵng, Nha Trang and Quy Nhơn.

Vietnam Airlines has observed high occupancy rates on many tourist routes, with an index ranging from 70 per cent to 90 per cent during the first two days of the holiday (April 27-28). Some popular routes, such as Hà Nội – Huế, Chu Lai, Quy Nhơn, Đồng Hới and Nha Trang, as well as HCM City - Phú Quốc, Tuy Hòa, Đồng Hới, Đà Lạt and Vân Đồn, have already surpassed the halfway mark in terms of seat occupancy.

It is expected that the demand for flights from Hà Nội to Đà Nẵng and Phú Quốc will continue to increase significantly in the week leading up to the holiday.

Hot weather affects durian crops in Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu Province.

Hot weather in recent weeks has had a negative impact on durian crops in Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu Province.

The province has more than 1,300 hectares of durian, with the main durian varieties including Ri6 and Thai, along with an average yield of six to eight tonnes per ha, and an estimated output of about 4,937 tonnes.

According to farmers, durian is a weather-sensitive crop. In prolonged hot and dry conditions, durian trees often burn the tips of their leaves, affecting the tree's ability to photosynthesize and synthesize nutrients.

In particular, intense sunlight for many months has caused heat shock in the trees, leading to premature fruit loss, risking a loss of this year's durian crop.

Nguyễn Hải Nam, a farmer living in Tân Lập Hamlet, Sơn Bình Commune, Châu Đức District, has nearly two hectares of Ri6 durian and Thai durian.

He said that in recent days, hot weather has caused his family's durian garden to continuously lose young fruit, with a current rate of more than 30 per cent falling, and the young fruit on the tree is still continuing to fall, making him very worried.

“The weather is hot, so the durian tree suffers from heat shock, causing many young fruits to fall. If last year my garden harvested more than three tonnes, this year it would be reduced by 30-40 per cent compared to last year," Nam said.

According to durian growers in Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, the durians currently bearing fruit will be harvested around May.

Faced with this situation, the agricultural sector of the province has recommended that farmers in the province should fully water their durian trees and use mist irrigation and distributed irrigation methods to save irrigation water.

Farmers should water durian trees in the early morning or late afternoon, and avoid watering at noon.

In addition, farmers should use available organic materials such as straw, dry branches and leaves, and plant residue to cover and retain moisture around the base as well as the entire garden to limit water evaporation and maintain soil moisture. 

Danang-Quang Nam bus routes to be resumed

Four bus routes linking Danang City and Quang Nam Province in the central region of Vietnam will be reopened on the coming Reunification Day and Labour Day holiday following a long suspension.

Bus route 2 will run from Danang Central Bus Station to Viet Han University, and the LK02 route will connect Viet Han University with Hoi An City. 

Meanwhile bus route 21 will start from Danang Central Bus Station to the Southern Bus Station, and the LK21 route will connect the Southern Bus Station to Tam Ky City in Quang Nam. 

Around 40 buses with 26 seats each will be used to serve these bus routes. All of the buses are new and installed with cameras, GPS and Wifi.

The two localities are also eyeing a mass transport traffic system linking Chu Lai Airport and Danang International Airport, and an express network from Da Nang to Thanh My in Quang Nam and Bo Y border check-point in the Central Highlands Kon Tum Province.

Tourists to Ninh Binh surge

The northern province of Ninh Binh served nearly five million tourists in the first four months of this year.

The local tourism sector’s total revenue reached VND4.62 trillion (USD181.17 million), according to the Ninh Binh Department of Tourism.

The province welcomed 1,027 travellers in April, more than double on-year.

Last year, the province attracted 6.50 million tourists.

Ninh Binh has prepared various activities in April to mark the 10th anniversary of the Trang An Landscape Complex being recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site.

Many traditional art programmes such as Cheo singing, Xam singing, Chau Van or folk games will also be held in Hoa Lu.

Quang Nam announces tourism campaign

Authorities of the central province of Quang Nam have announced plans to launch a tourism stimulus programme.

The Quang Nam-Green Tourism Destination campaign is scheduled to start from May to the end of November.

Around 100 local tourism firms will offer 20 to 50 percent discounts on tours.

The campaign's eco-tourism products and tours will highlight the natural beauty of Quang Nam’s mountains, forests, islands, and coastlines, alongside the province's well-established tourist sightseeing spots such as Hoi An Town, the My Son Sanctuary, Cham Island, the Tra Que Vegetable Village and the Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

In addition to domestic tourists, the programme will target visitors from key international markets such as South Korea, China, Taiwan, Japan, Australia, Southeast Asia, India, the US and Europe.

Quang Nam has set a goal to serve 7.60 million tourists this year. The figure reached 7.40 million last year, including 3.80 million foreign visitors.

Vietnamese Deputy PM, Venezuelan President hold talks

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang held talks with President of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro Moros in Caracas on April 18, as part of his ongoing official visit to the Latin American country.

President Maduro hailed Vietnam as a development model for many countries across the world, including Venezuela. He believed that the Deputy PM’s visit will herald a new phase of cooperation between the two countries as Venezuela and Vietnam are celebrating the 35th founding anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties this year.

He also affirmed his determination to carry forward Commander Hugo Chávez’s legacy of fostering relations with Vietnam.

Deputy PM Quang, for his part, believed that under the leadership of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) and President Maduro, Venezuela will continue achieving more victories in the cause of national development and raising its global standing.

Vietnam considers Venezuela one of its traditional friends and important partners in Latin America, he said, wishing that the bilateral ties would grow increasingly practical and effective for the development cause of each country.

Informing the host about the outcomes of his meetings with Venezuelan ministers and working sessions between ministries, sectors and localities of the two nations, he suggested the two sides increase the exchange of delegations, consolidate existing cooperation mechanisms and dialogues, and boost economic-trade-investment ties to match the bilateral political relations and potential of each country.

In reply, President Maduro vowed to direct and urge Venezuelan ministries, agencies and localities to soon negotiate cooperation documents and launch specific projects with Vietnam. He affirmed the Venezuelan Government’s commitment to offering all possible support to Vietnamese firms to do business in the country.

Both sides agreed to actively prepare for upcoming visits by high-ranking leaders, soon convene the 4th session of the Inter-Governmental Committee, regularly and flexibly deploy the political consultation mechanism between the two foreign ministries, and work closely together at international organisations and multilateral forums.

They vowed to foster bilateral economic, trade and investment ties through increasing the exchange of business delegations, promotion and networking activities, leveraging existing cooperation mechanisms to address lingering obstacles and improving the effectiveness of economic collaboration.

The two governments will accompany businesses to encourage and facilitate bilateral cooperation and investment projects, especially in the realms of oil and gas, agriculture, telecommunications and construction.

On global and regional issues of mutual interest, they shared the view that differences should be resolved through peaceful means in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

Later, they witnessed the signing of five cooperation documents, including an action plan to deploy cooperation between the two agriculture ministries for the 2024 – 2030 period, and Memoranda of Understanding and letters of intent in the fields of oil and gas, petrochemical refining, telecommunications, and construction material production.

Earlier on April 18 morning, Deputy PM Quang hosted separate receptions for Venezuelan ministers and other high-ranking officials who proposed measures to fortify cooperation in promising areas./.

PM urges stronger cooperation between Vietnamese, Chinese Ministries of Justice

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested the Ministries of Justice of Vietnam and China to foster cooperation and mutual support, making them to be on a par with the height of the bilateral relations.

While receiving Chinese Minister of Justice He Rong in Hanoi on April 19, PM Chinh briefed the Chinese minister on the outstanding achievements that Vietnam has reaped in nearly 40 years of renewal.

The PM affirmed that Vietnam considers the development of the stable, healthy, sustainable and long-term ties with China as a consistent policy, an objective requirement, a strategic choice and a leading priority in its foreign policy.

He stressed that the Vietnamese Government always supports and creates favourable conditions for the two justice ministries to bolster cooperation, asking them to effectively carry out the signed Memorandum of understanding on cooperation and promote more practical cooperation activities with stronger political trust, more experience sharing and more effective management.

PM Chinh suggested the cooperation focus on building and completing the rule-of-law state and laws, enhancing partnership in training of high-quality human resources, and judicial assistance in line with bilateral and multilateral international treaties to which both nations are signatories.

The Government leader also proposed enhancing judicial cooperation between localities of the two nations, especially border ones, and spoke highly of the preparation for the first judicial conference between provinces along the shared borderline to be held in China in 2025.

He Rong, for her part, briefed PM Chinh on the outcomes of her working sessions with Vietnamese ministries, sectors and agencies, especially her talks with Vietnamese Minister of Justice Le Thanh Long during which both ministers exchanged experiences in law making, inspection of law documents and law enforcement, reconciliation at the grassroots level, and law reform, among others.

She agreed with PM Chinh’s recommendations, and affirmed that she will work closely with the Vietnamese Ministry of Justice to promote cooperative activities in a more practical and effective fashion in accordance with the agreements reached by high-level leaders of both nations.

The host and guest expressed their delight at the sound development of the friendly neighbourliness and comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between Vietnam and China over the past years, and emphasised the significance of the consolidation and promotion of the cooperative ties in the areas of law and justice, especially in the context that both sides are pushing ahead the construction of their rule-of-law socialist states./.

Vietnam’s U16 women team finish fifth at UEFA friendship tournament

Vietnam’s U16 national women’s football team defeated Wales U16s on penalties in their final match of the eight-team UEFA friendship tournament which concluded in Turkey on April 18, ranking fifth overall.

The Vietnamese girls opened the scoring before Wales earned an equalizer in the second half. The 1-1 draw sent both sides to a penalty shootout which ended 4-3 in favour of Vietnam.

Vietnam earlier trounced Botswana 5-0 in their first match. The team led by Japanese coach Akira Ijiri then lost 8-0 to the United States and 3-1 to hosts Turkey.

The US ultimately took the trophy after beating Paraguay in the final match.

The April 9-19 tournament attracted the participation of eight teams divided into two groups. Vietnam were in Group A alongside the US, Botswana, and hosts Turkey. Group B included Uganda, China, Wales, and Paraguay.

The UEFA women’s U16 tournament is not just a competition, it serves as a platform for young talents to learn, grow, and showcase their abilities, according to organisers UEFA.

It serves as a testament to UEFA’s dedication to fostering young talent across the globe, thereby ensuring that the future of women’s football is both bright and competitive.

Nearly 1,000 houses damaged in northern whirlwind

Nearly 1,000 houses in the two northern mountainous provinces of Cao Bang and Lao Cai had roofs blown off in a whirlwind that ravaged the area on Thursday.

According to reports from the two province's Steering Committees for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue, more than 800 houses in Cao Bang and over 150 others in Lao Cai were badly affected by the whirlwind which lasted for several hours in the early Thursday morning.

The incident also damaged two schools in Cao Bang, some headquarters of local communal people's committees in Lao Cai, and some other public buildings in the two provinces.

The two province's Steering Committees for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue were dealing with the consequences of the whirlwind and helping local households repair their homes.

Vietnamese women link up to enhance role, position

The Hà Nội Association for Women Entrepreneurs (HNEW) and the Vietnamese Women Forum in Europe (VWFE) signed an agreement on April 18 on cooperation to enhance the role, position and contributions of Vietnamese women in socio-economic areas.

Accordingly, the two sides will support each other in implementing their common goals, while exchanging information and experience in activities of Vietnamese women in Việt Nam and European countries, giving consultations to women organisations in building development strategies and implementing projects related to the development of women.

At the same time, they will share experiences and cooperate in activities to maintain traditional Vietnamese values and integrate into foreign countries’ society.

The two sides will coordinate to hold or join conferences, seminars and forums to seek measures to enhance women’s role in socio-economic aspects, as well as training courses to provide women with management and leadership skills, thus increasing their opportunities to develop themselves, improve their role in the society, and update science-technology advances, according to the agreement.

At the signing ceremony, HNEW President Bùi Thị Hải Yến said that the signing of the cooperation agreement with the VWFE, a prestigious women association of Vietnamese in Europe, will open up new development directions for both sides and help each other to realise their respective goals, she said.

The association, established in 2008, has nearly 250 members who are leaders of private businesses in all sectors.

Meanwhile, VWFE President Phan Bích Thiện expressed her hope that the partnership with the HNEW will help connect entrepreneurs of Hà Nội with their peers in Europe, bringing specific benefits for both sides and creating more favourable conditions for charity activities in Việt Nam.

Thiện said that the VWFE was set up in June 2023, gathering nearly 300 members from 21 countries, aiming to connect Vietnamese women in regional countries as well as between them and their peers at home.

She said that the forum will continue to organise more activities to link Vietnamese women regardless of their ages and backgrounds. 

Vietnamese, Chinese ministers discuss security cooperation

Vietnamese Minister of Public Security Gen. To Lam held talks with Chinese Minister of Justice He Rong in Hanoi on April 19.

Lam underlined the significance of the State visit to Vietnam by Chinese Party General Secretary and President of China Xi Jinping from December 12-13, 2023, saying that it continued to affirm that the two Parties and countries share similarities in ideological foundations and socialism building goals, and both nations are striving for the interests and well-being of their people.

He also outlined major directions and specific measures aimed at enhancing political trust and cooperation among ministries, agencies and localities of the two countries in the new phase.

The talks also aimed to continue realising a joint statement on deepening and elevating the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, and building a Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, the Vietnamese minister said.

To enhance mutual understanding and comprehensive cooperation between the two ministries in the future, Lam briefed the guest about the management and detention of prisoners; the education, re-education and policies for prisoners by the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security (MoPS).

He suggested the Chinese side assist the MoPS in sharing information and experience in building, managing, and applying digitalisation in judicial affairs and managing detention centres and prisoners.

The MoPS wants to send a delegation from its Department of Prison Management to work with units of the Chinese Ministry of Justice to learn their experience in these fields, and discuss cooperation directions with the Bureau of Prison Administration of China, he said.

He Rong, for her part, affirmed that cooperation in law enforcement and judicial matters between China and Vietnam has been growing, aiming toward the goal of governing and managing their countries by law, and ensuring satisfaction among citizens of both nations.

She expressed her desire for the two ministries to further enhance their cooperative ties in areas where they share similar functions and tasks.

The host and guest vowed to soon complete the approval of the Agreement on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons between Vietnam and China, as well as the contents agreed by the two ministries.

Concluding the talks, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the MoPS and the Chinese Ministry of Justice./.

Marksmen fail to land additional Olympic spots

Vietnamese shooters Ha Minh Thanh and Vu Tien Nam have failed to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics as they failed to finish among the top eight leading athletes at the 2024 ISSF World Olympic Qualification Tournament in Brazil.

In the 25m rapid fire pistol competition on April 19, Minh Thanh only finished 15th while his teammate Tien Nam was ranked 34th.

The 2024 ISSF World Olympic Qualification Tournament is the last chance for Vietnamese marksmen to earn additional tickets to Paris.

As a result, the Vietnamese shooting team only earned two slots to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris this summer.

Trinh Thu Vinh officially won a place after achieving a high result at the 53rd ISSF World Shooting Championships qualifiers in Azerbaijan on August 17, 2023, while 21-year-old Le Thi Mong Tuyen earned her ticket following her excellent performance at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship 2024 which was held in Indonesia last January.

To date, a total of seven Vietnamese athletes have made it to the 2024 Paris Olympics that will take place from July 26 to August 11.

They include cyclists Nguyen Thi That and Nguyen Huy Hoang, badminton player Nguyen Thuy Linh, weightlifters Vo Thi Kim Anh and Trinh Van Vinh, and marksmen Trinh Thu Vinh and Le Thi Mong Tuyen.

Exhibition on Vietnam seas and islands opens in Laos

A photo exhibition on Vietnam’s seas and islands themed “Fatherland by the waves” opened in the Lao capital city ofVientiane on April 18.

The event, jointly organised by the Vietnam Association of Photographic Artists (VAPA), the Vietnam Cultural Centre in Laos and the National Institute of Fine Arts (NIFA) of Laos, is aimed at diversifying cultural and art exchange and cooperation activities between the two neighbouring countries. 

On display are 100 award-winning and typical works selected from a national contest hosted by the VAPA and relevant agencies, which was set to promote the potential and beauty of Vietnam’s seas and islands, love for the homeland, and the attachment of generations of Vietnamese people to national seas and islands.

Tran Hieu Anh, a 10th grader from the Nguyen Du Lao-Vietnamese bilingual school, said that although he has not traveled to many places in Vietnam, the photos on display have helped him understand more about the country's seas and islands, and hardworking Vietnamese people.

The exhibition will run until May 15 at the Vietnam Cultural Centre in Vientiane./.

Vietnamese in Thailand, Israel commemorate legendary nation founders

The overseas Vietnamese (OVs) communities in Thailand and Israel have held events to commemorate Hung Kings, the legendary founders of the nation. 

Addressing a ceremony held in Udon Thani province of Thailand on April 18, Consul General in Khon Kaen Chu Duc Dung said the tradition of worshipping Hung Kings is a cultural trait of the Vietnamese people, reflecting their gratitude to their ancestors.

Not only a spiritual activity, praying for national peace, favourable weather, and prosperity, it also helps strengthen solidarity, love, and mutual support among Vietnamese people, including those in Thailand, he said, adding that this solidarity serves as a source of strength for Vietnam to overcome difficulties and thrive.

The same day, the diplomat visited Nakhon Phanom province in Northeastern Thailand to attend a ceremony related to a Vietnam construction in Nakhon Phanom city which is expected to be inaugurated next May on the occasion of the 134th birth anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh.

Speaking at an incense offering ceremony to the Hung Kings held by the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel the same day, Ambassador Ly Duc Trung said the event serves as an opportunity for Vietnamese in various countries to look back at the glorious history of the nation and demonstrate their solidarity.

A representative of the liaison board of the Vietnamese community in Israel said several projects in the homeland invested by OVs in Israel are currently being implemented, aiming to further promote cooperation between the two countries in the future./.

Slight surge in passengers, no fluctuations in ticket fares during holiday

Coach stations across Ho Chi Minh City said that ticket prices to various provinces remain unchanged during the Hung Kings Temple Festival holiday and the number of passengers via stations is estimated to slightly increase compared to ordinary days.

In particular, it is predicted that about 1,350 vehicles will operate at the Mien Tay (Western) Coach Station throughout April 17, falling on the holiday break to serve 29,500 passengers, reaching 104 percent compared to an ordinary day.

A representative from An Suong Coach Station said that it is estimated that around 366 vehicles will serve 2,457 passengers throughout April 17. It is expected that the number of passengers through the station will increase compared to ordinary days.

Meanwhile, the new Mien Dong (Eastern) Coach Station also predicted a slight increase in both vehicles and passengers at the station.

Passengers can contact the hotline at 19007373 or access the website www.bxmt.com.vn for detailed instructions on buying tickets.

To ensure safe and thorough passenger transportation during the holiday, the Western Coach Station consulted the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transportation to collaborate with the transportation departments of Tien Giang, Ben Tre and Vinh Long provinces to regulate traffic flow in areas of Rach Mieu Bridge, My Thuan Bridge and National Highway No.1 and so on in order to avoid traffic congestion.

The unit also suggested the Ho Chi Minh City Public Transport Management Center add vehicles to the station to meet the high demand of passengers during peak periods.

Ca Mau suspends forest walking event due to fire risk

Authorities in the southernmost province of Ca Mau have decided to suspend a walking competition through the U Minh Ha National Park due to the fear of forest fires.

More than 37,500 hectares of forest in U Minh Ha National Park are suffering from drought, including 23,100 hectares at highest risk of forest fires.

The five-kilometre walk is among six sports events due to be held at the U Minh Ha National Park during the coming Southern Liberation Day (April 30) and May Day holiday.

U Minh Ha National Park announced the various sports and cultural events to celebrate the liberation of the south, including the 500-metre and 2.5-kilometre runs, the five-kilometre walk, the 800-metre boat race, fairs and exhibitions featuring local culture and specialities on April 11.

According to local authorities, the park was currently at extreme risk of forest fires due to prolonged droughts, so they decided to suspend the walk event to ensure safety.

"More than 37,500 hectares of forest are suffering from drought, including 23,100 hectares at highest risk of forest fires," local authorities said.

A fire recently burnt down over 40 hectares of forest in the Tran Van Thoi District on April 10, the largest fire reported for over a decade in the province.

After the fire, Ca Mau Chairman Huynh Quoc Viet sent urgent directions to U Minh Ha National Park management, asking for tightened measures to prevent fires in the area.

The U Minh Thuong National Park in the southern province of Kien Giang has also temporarily closed to visitors to help in fire prevention efforts.

Airlines increase Dien Bien flight frequency

The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines and low-cost carrier Vietjet Air have increased the frequency of their Hanoi and HCM City-Dien Bien routes to serve rising travel demand as the northwestern province is organising grand celebrations for the 70th Dien Bien Phu Victory anniversary (May 7, 1954).

Vietnam Airlines will operate three flights daily between Hanoi and Dien Bien from May 3 to 8, nearly doubling the current frequency.

The national flag carrier is the official transport sponsor of the tourism programme Visit Vietnam Year - Dien Bien 2024, of which the 70th anniversary celebration is a highlight.

Vietjet Air has also increased its frequency between Hanoi and HCM City and Dien Bien to 28 flights per week between May 3-11.

Dien Dien is witnessing a tourist surge at this time and many local hotels and guesthouses have been fully booked. Local authorities have called on local households to register accommodation for visitors and to date roughly 100 households have joined.

On May 7, 1954, the flag of the Vietnamese army was raised on the top of the command tunnel of French General De Castries. All the French troops were captured.

President Ho Chi Minh said that the Dien Bien Phu Victory was a golden milestone in history that directly led to the signing of the Geneva Accords on ending the war and restoring peace in Indochina. It also created the foundation and conditions for the Vietnamese people to secure victory in the resistance war against the US, liberate the South, and reunify the country in 1975.

Filipino crew member dies in labour accident off Danang coast

A Filipino crew member of a cargo ship died after a bad fall while the ship was running off the Vietnamese central coastal city of Danang.

The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre announced on Thursday morning that they transferred the body of a Filipino crew member to authorities in Danang City.

According to the centre, they received a call for help from the Asteris ship of Marshall Island nationality at 8.28 pm on April 17, informing that a crew member was unconscious after a fall which had badly injured his head.

"The Asteris cargo ship was running from Vietnam's northern Quang Ninh Province to Indonesia," the centre said. "The accident occurred while the ship was 85 nautical miles from Danang City’s Son Tra Peninsula. When receiving their call for help, we gave them first aid instructions and immediately sent a rescue team who arrived at the vessel at midnight the same day. However, the crewman had died from serious head injuries."

The victim's body was brought ashore in Danang City at 4.18 am on April 18 and transferred to local authorities.

Hanoi exhibition marks Hung King’s Commemoration Day

The Hanoi Museum on April 18 organised a thematic exhibition themed "Echoes" to introduce to the public nearly 100 precious artifacts, images, and documents of Vietnam from the Hung Kings’ reign with Dong Son Culture about 2,000 years ago. 

The event was held on the occasion of the death anniversary of Hung Kings - the legendary nation founders, and the 100th anniversary of Dong Son Culture research in Vietnam. On this occasion, artifacts recognised as national treasures including Co Loa bronze drums were displayed.

The exhibition aimed to pay tribute to the ancestors of the Vietnamese people and the scientists who discovered Dong Son, the most brilliant culture in the national history, 100 years ago. In particular, bronze casting techniques during that period were found to reach perfection with bronze drums fully converging the scientific knowledge of the era as well as the talent and soul of the Vietnamese people.

On display is a collection of unique bronze drums kept at the Hanoi Museum, which has decoded the bronze drum casting technique and the ancestral custom of worshipping the bronze drum god - the Co Dong God in Hanoi thousands of years ago.

At the exhibition, the Co Loa bronze drum - a national treasure - was chosen as a highlight to tell the public historical stories related to the artifact.

Vietnam among top domestic infrastructure investors: Ambassador

Vietnam is one of the leading countries in Asia in terms of investment for infrastructure development, allocating 5.7% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to projects in this field, said Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations (UN).

Addressing a high-level debate on promoting sustainable development through infrastructure connectivity as part of a ‘Sustainability Week’ held by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on April 18, Giang emphasised that building a modern and harmonious infrastructure system is one of the three strategic breakthroughs identified by the Vietnamese government for sustainable development.

So far, Vietnam has put into operation 1,729 km of expressways and aims to lift the total to 3,000 km by 2025, he said, adding that Vietnam continues it is continuing to develop infrastructure connectivity with neighbouring countries, including Laos, thus promoting regional and inter-regional connectivity.

The Vietnamese Government continues to prioritise the development of sustainable infrastructure through investment in renewable energy, and green transportation systems, as well as promoting the production and use of electric public vehicles, he noted.

The diplomat thanked official development assistance (ODA) partners for their timely and effective support for Vietnam's infrastructure development projects.

He affirmed promoting connectivity between and within countries is essential for economic development, job creation, ensuring supply chain efficiency, and enhancing sustainability.

The diplomat proposed the enhancement of international cooperation and solidarity through financial and technical support to narrow the infrastructure development gap, particularly with developing countries.

Countries need to enhance the resilience of their infrastructure systems by investing in renewable energy, green transportation technology, and digital infrastructure, with institutional and financial contributions by both public and private sectors, he said. 

Global efforts towards infrastructure connectivity should closely link with regional and national initiatives, he continued, taking the example of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and facilitating seamless support throughout the lifecycle of infrastructure projects in the region.

UNGA President Dennis Francis highlighted the importance of infrastructure development strategy in achieving all sustainable development goals, while emphasising the need to enhance financial support and investment in high-quality, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure.

Participants also shared experience and challenges in narrowing the gap in infrastructure development and connectivity, and discussed how to promote partnership, solidarity, and innovation for sustainable infrastructure development.

The 'Sustainable Week', held from April 15 -19, is an initiative of the President of the 78th Session of the UNGA to convene a series of high-level meetings of the UNGA to discuss topics related to sustainable development, contributing to mobilising political will to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development./.

VMA, Pfizer Vietnam collaborate to improve quality of healthcare in VN

The Vietnam Medical Association (VMA) and Pfizer Vietnam will collaborate across multiple therapeutic areas to improve the quality of healthcare in Việt Nam as part of a Memorandum of Understanding signed on April 17.

The cooperation aims to enhance the effectiveness of antimicrobial resistance management, as mentioned in the National Strategy on Antimicrobial Resistance Control 2023 – 2030, with a vision to 2045.

It builds on Pfizer's expertise in pharmaceuticals and its resources, along with the VMA's close engagement and deep understanding of the role of hospitals and government management units in the fight against the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.

“The Memorandum of Understanding with Pfizer Vietnam marks a milestone in the co-operation among stakeholders to jointly improve the quality of healthcare for the people. We hope to have a positive impact with our joint initiatives through the specific programs mentioned,” said President of the Vietnam Medical Association Nguyễn Thị Xuyên.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, collaborative efforts between prevention and treatment in managing respiratory diseases have emerged as a priority. Together, VMA and Pfizer Vietnam have committed to providing expertise and resources to each other to enhance the opportunity for patients to access new prevention solutions and new medicines for the management of respiratory infections.

In addition, both parties have also committed to continuing co-operation, exchange, and support in updating medical information and knowledge for healthcare professionals. This is important for enhancing the capability of healthcare professionals to ensure the health and welfare of the Vietnamese people.

To achieve the above mutually aligned goals, the project is designed to enhance healthcare outcomes through a series of joint initiatives, including collaboration in supporting and sponsoring scientific activities for relevant scientific information in healthcare and health policy/management; collaborations with relevant healthcare organisations to support the hospital sector in implementing the antimicrobial resistance management programme, AMS, thus enhancing the capability of clinical microbiology, clinical pharmacology and clinicians in the appropriate use of antibiotics; and collaborate with relevant organisations to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment capability of respiratory diseases.

“We are delighted to partner with the Vietnam Medical Association to address critical healthcare challenges in Việt Nam," said Darrell Oh, General Director of Pfizer Vietnam. "Both AMR and respiratory illnesses are of immediate concern to society at large and I believe that these efforts will yield tangible benefits in both governance and patient health.” 

Bến Tre Province forum discusses tourism linkages between HCMC, Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta localities agreed to enhance co-operation this year for promoting each other’s tourism strengths at the 2024 Tourism Linkage and Development Forum held in Bến Tre Province on April 17.

The forum was an opportunity for the 12 provinces, HCM City and Cần Thơ City to network, set targets for 2024 and strengthen tourism co-operation.

Nguyễn Thị Bé Mười, deputy chairwoman of the Bến Tre People’s Committee, said her province offers tourists rivers, diverse specialities, friendly people, and a variety of cultural and historical relics. 

It is capable of linking up with other delta provinces and HCM City to create attractive tours for domestic and foreign travellers, she said.

“In addition to Bến Tre’s own efforts, we hope to continue to get support and co-operation from other localities to … reap positive results.

“Bến Tre strives to soon become one of the tourist hubs of the Mekong Delta, making contributions to the region’s tourism value chain.”

Bùi Thị Ngọc Hiếu, deputy director of the HCM City Department of Tourism, said the five key areas of the programme are exchanging information for tourism management, co-operation to develop tourism products, tourism promotion and facilitation, workforce development, and investment facilitation.

The delta localities are working together this year on some key activities such as building a programme to develop tourism products that link them, organising events for competent tourist guides to share experiences and a competition for innovative tourism startups in Kiên Giang Province.

Assoc Prof Dr Phạm Trung Lương, a former deputy rector of the Vietnam Tourism Development Research Institute, said tourism is inter-regional, and regions would struggle if they do not link up and work with others.

Linking and developing tourism among provinces is crucial to utilising each other’s strengths, enhancing the delta’s competitiveness, and minimising overlapping, which is especially important since otherwise tourists would only visit one or two areas in the region, he said.

Representatives of other Mekong Delta provinces at the forum said they are committed to facilitating tourism linkages and creating favourable conditions for developing unique local tourism products, and called for stronger co-operation and assistance within the region.​

​A poll on attractive destinations in HCM City and 13 Mekong Delta localities was also launched at the event.  

Tourism destinations can sign up for the voting, organised by their tourism departments and Tuổi Trẻ newspaper. 

The results, based on votes cast on the newspaper’s website and an assessment by the programme’s council of experts, will be announced at the end of the year.

At the forum, businesses and organisations promoted Bến Tre’s OCOP products and tourism models, including its iconic coconuts, and networked with visitors and potential partners.

On April 16 around 40 tourism businesses in HCM City surveyed noteworthy tourism destinations in Bến Tre.

This was the third time the forum was held after being held in 2019 in HCM City and 2022 in Đồng Tháp Province. 

The delta is identified as one of the seven main tourist regions of the country.

It is rich in resources, canals, eco-systems, and unique cultural values, giving the place great potential to become an important resort destination in the south. 

In 2023 Bến Tre received over 2.2 million tourists, a 72 per cent increase from the previous year.

Tourism revenues topped VNĐ2.7 trillion, a 77.3 per cent rise. 

Third stage of VGA Junior Tour features nearly 90 golfers

The third stage of the Vietnam Golf Association Junior Tour will be organised on April 20-21 at the Vinpearl Golf Hải Phòng.

Nearly 90 players will tee off in nine categories for boys and girls and age groups ranging from U8 to U18.

Competitors in the U15 boys and U18 boys and girls will compete in three 18-hole with no short cut. The rest will play in two rounds of 38 holes.

High-ranking golfers will earn points to have their name in the world amateur ranking.

According to organisers, the tournament will help nurture junior players' professional dreams while sharpen their skills before they jump to compete in the national competitions.

The VGA also hoped to find more golf talents for the national teams.

Đoàn Uy, 17, won the first stage here last month. Nguyễn Tuấn Anh took the cup of the second stage early this month in Long An Province. 

Vietnamese teenagers to tee off at Terra Cotta Invitational

Two Vietnamese golfers Lê Khánh Hưng and Nguyễn Anh Minh will compete in the prestigious Terra Cotta Invitational from April 19-21 in the US.

Both of the national team members received invitations from the organisers following their success in 2023.

Hưng, 16, was the first Vietnamese golfer to win a gold medal from the regional SEA Games last May in Cambodia.

He won the Lexus Challenge 2023, one of key events of the Việt Nam Golf Association Tour.

Minh, 17, is a rising star of Việt Nam. He won the Taiwan Golf Championship 2024 last week in Taiwan. Earlier, he took the trophy of the Faldo Series Asia and many other events.

The Terra Cotta Invitational is played as a men’s amateur event at the Naples National Golf Club in Florida. The 28th annual event will be a 54-hole stroke play tournament with 18 holes per day.

Play will be in threesomes beginning at 7.30am each day, utilising the first and 10th tees. Pairings for round two and three will be made according to golfers' scores. There is no cut.

Prizes will be awarded for first through fifth places. The champion will receive an expedition into the Northeast Amateur Invitational.

Some famous players that have participated in the Terra Cotta over the years include Matt Kuchar, Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, Sam Burns, Patrick Reed, Wyndham Clark, Sergio Garcia, Bryson DeChambeau, Bud Cauley, Peter Uihlein, Emiliano Grillo, Erik Compton, Billy Hurley III, Beau Hossler, Brooks Koepka and Sean O’Hair. 

Dozens survive passenger bus fire on southern expressway

All 22 passengers and the driver have managed to escape a bus after it caught fire on an expressway running across Long Thanh district of Dong Nai province, on April 19.

The bus with 22 passengers on board caught fire at 13:50 when it was travelling along Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay expressway across Long Thanh district.

The driver quickly drove into the emergency lane and urged the passengers to escape the vehicle after discovering smoke inside.

The passengers managed to escape before the flame burned down the vehicle in minutes.

Hearing about the news, three fire engines and more than 15 firefighters were dispatched to the scene and the fire was put out at 14:30.

Ecopark City Trail offers race-cation experience for runners

As many as 3,800 runners will take part in the Ecopark City Trail 2024 which will be held on April 20-21 in Hưng Yên Province.

Organisers have designed special routes to celebrate the tournament's fifth edition.

Instead of usual distances of 5-10-21-42km, runners will challenge themselves in 6-11-21-31km races in which the longest one will be a combination between road and trail running for the first time.

The organisers said that the interesting changes should give runners new and fresh experiences in the familiar but stunning scenery of Ecopark, the greenest urban area in the North, just 15km away from Hà Nội City centre.

Previously known as the Ecopark Marathon, the race has been renamed Ecopark City Trail this season.

According to organisers, it is held as a race-cation, the new way to exercise and travel. Participants will not simply be running but also get the amazing opportunity to see, discover and enjoy many activities such as team building, connecting with family, friends, companies, and groups. This is a race to chill and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Ecopark City Trail is a good way to keep runners on track with their personal fitness while on vacation. Running, especially outdoors, is a great way to get exercise.

In addition to VNĐ350 million in cash and gifts for the top athletes, organisers will hold lucky draws for all participants including runners, crew and volunteers. 

Nguyễn Văn Lai and Phạm Thị Huệ won the men's and women's 21km categories last year, Đào Minh Chí and Trần Thị Duyên championed the 10km events, while Đào Minh Thiện and Bùi Thị Thu Hà took the 5km titles. 

Source: VNA/SGT/VNS/VOV/Dtinews/SGGP/VGP/Hanoitimes