The Southeast Asian Women’s Volleyball Tournament kicked off in the northern province of Vinh Phuc on August 3 night with the participation of national teams from Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and the host Vietnam.

Director of the province's Department of Tourism, Sports and Culture Bui Hong Do, who is also head of the tournament organising board, affirmed that the province has prepared the best conditions for the event in terms of facilities, accommodations, practicing and competing venues to ensure its success.

Taking place from August 4-6, the tournament consists of six matches, with each team playing three matches. The teams will compete in a round-robin format, and the rankings will be determined based on the points earned.

After the first round of competition in Vinh Phuc province, the second round will be held in Thailand. Based on the results of the two rounds, the teams will be ranked.

Two opening matches are scheduled for August 4. Indonesia will play against Thailand at 16:00 while the host Vietnam will face the Philippines at 19:00.

All matches will be live broadcast by Vietnam Cable Television (VTVCab).

The tournament will also be open to spectators for free.

Committee asks for urgent solutions to speed up administrative reform

The Government's Steering Committee for Administrative Reform has requested ministries, sectors, and localities to proactively and promptly supervise the system of legal normative documents, identify any issues and obstacles, and assign relevant agencies to resolve them within specific deadlines.

Under Announcement No. 304/VPCP-TB on the conclusion of the steering committee at its 5th session held on July 19, 2023, ministries, sectors and localities were demanded to review administrative procedures at all levels, focusing on addressing current challenges in terms of housing, credit access, electricity, taxation, land, customs, and transport.

They will also supervise procedures related to the three growth drivers of consumption, investment, and exports.

Administrative procedure reform must be prioritised and targeted, aiming for providing swift, comprehensive, and citizen- and business-centered services, the document said.  

Party leader’s book on military policy holds decisive importance to national peace, development

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong’s book on the military policy and defence strategy of Vietnam in the new period holds national significance and decisive importance to national peace, stability, and development, said a military officer.

The recently released book, with title “Some issues about the military policy, defence strategy during the cause of building and defending the socialist Vietnam Fatherland in the new period”, comprises 39 articles, speeches, and interviews of General Secretary Trong, who is also Secretary of the Central Military Commission.

With three sections, the over-400-page book systematizes the Party leader’s directions over the military policy and Fatherland safeguarding strategy in the current period.

Col. Le Quang Lang, head of the resistance war history division of the Military History Institute under the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, underlined the national significance and decisive importance of the book, which demonstrates the Party leader’s wisdom, keen mindset, and creativity.

The issues mentioned in this book comprehensively and profoundly reflect the national defence requirements in the new context, he noted.

Based on the Party’s leadership experience in military and defence affairs during the fights for national liberation and safeguarding, General Secretary Trong highlighted the new mindset on military and defence strategy, along with the orientations for safeguarding the Fatherland.

In particular, the book points out the ultimate goal of the military and defence strategy, which is to firmly protect the Fatherland “early and from afar”, prevent wars, maintain a peaceful and stable environment for national development, and avoid falling into a passive position in any circumstances, Lang went on.

He said the book also shows the Party leader’s strong direction over major issues, including the principle that the Party exercises absolute and direct leadership over all aspects of the army; the building of a comprehensively strong army, firstly in terms of politics and thought; and the orientation for building a “truly elite, lean, and strong” army and, by 2030, completing the development of a “revolutionary, regular, elite, and modern” army.

Given this, the book will definitely be one of the important “handbooks” for cadres and Party members at all levels, especially those at the strategic level in the army, the officer added.

Ca Mau moves to sustainably develop community-based ecotourism

The tourism sector of the southernmost province of Ca Mau has decided to focus on community-based ecotourism in 2023, investing in products such as tours to experience and explore pristine mangrove forests, and accelerate the project “Dat Mui Cultural Tourism village” in a bid to promote sustainable tourism development.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the move aims to generate more jobs for rural labourers and create sustainable livelihoods by tapping the strengths of the locality, thus increasing incomes for locals.

The project “Dat Mui Cultural Tourism village” has been implemented in the 2021 - 2025 period. This is considered a groundbreaking shift in the tourism industry in the locality, linking tourism development with OCOP product development, and preserving and promoting local traditional culture values.

The province’s tourism sector recorded positive growth in the first half of 2023. Ca Mau has so far served 1.16 million tourists, raking in 1.52 trillion VND (64 million USD), surging by 36% and nearly 33% year-on-year, respectively.

 The tourism sector of the southernmost province of Ca Mau  decides to focus on community-based ecotourism in 2023, investing in products such as tours to experience and explore pristine mangrove forests. (Photo: baodautu.vn)

The results were attributable to the efforts of the locality in promoting and stipulating tourism demand via communication activities, particularly the “Ca Mau – Destination 2023” programme, which features a wide range of cultural, sports, and tourism activities, as well as commercial events.

The launch of commercial flights between Ca Mau and Hanoi, as well as the operation of high-speed boats on the Ca Mau-Nam Du-Phu Quoc route, has contributed to luring more domestic and international travelers to Ca Mau, the department said.

Currently, Ca Mau has 25 community-based ecotourism sites that are operational, and some new sites are scheduled to be put into operation soon.

During the past five years, community-based tourism has benefited local residents through creating jobs for labourers and helping sell local farm produce and handicrafts. It also contributed to a change in labour structure in rural areas.

According to Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Tran Hieu Hung, there remains great potential for the locality to further promote this kind of tourism in the coming time.

He stressed that it is essential to promptly develop a comprehensive programme to support community-based ecotourism development, towards promoting sustainable and professional tourism development in the locality.

The provincial People's Committee has recently approved an ecotourism, resort, and entertainment project at U Minh Ha National Park by 2030 with a total budget of approximately 1.458 trillion VND.

Accordingly, the site will include two functional subdivisions of administrative service and ecological restoration, covering a total area of over 1.3 ha.

In this site, fauna and flora collections and herbal gardens will be formed, and hospitality services provided.

Tours will be developed to connect the site with other destinations in Ca Mau and adjacent provinces.

The project is expected to contribute to developing sustainable tourism, and preserving the local cajuput forest ecosystem and biodiversity in the park.

Transport ministry approves 36 rest stations along North-South Expressway

The eastern wing of the North-South Expressway will have 36 rest stations as approved by Ministry of Transport on August 2.

Of them, six have been put into service, three under construction and the remainders yet to receive investment.

The ministry asked project management boards and the Vietnam Express Corporation (VEC) to make a list of project items and select appropriate investors in line with legal regulations.

The boards will also coordinate with local competent agencies in studying project areas.

For the rest stations of component projects managed by localities, the selection of investors and the construction will be on their side.

The North-South transport corridor, in which the North-South Expressway from Lang Son to Ca Mau acts as the “backbone” of the entire transportation system, plays an important role in national economic development.

The expressway runs through 32 provinces and cities, connecting four key economic regions, including two major economic centres - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam targets 3,000km and 5,000km of expressways by 2025 and 2030, respectively.

Hà Nội claim top spot after beating Hải Phòng in Derby of the North

Derogatory chants towards referees were once a notorious trait of Hải Phòng fans. But thanks to the appearance of VAR in the V-League, referees could now take a break from the abuse, especially in this perhaps controversial fixture.

But it was not just the new technology that kept the away stand at Hàng Đẫy silent, as the sinking 3-1 defeat to hosts Hà Nội meant that Hải Phòng lengthened their losing streak here to thirteen years.

The match was however, not one-sided, as Hải Phòng made it hard for the hosts in 89 minutes.

Hà Nội went ahead courtesy of Herlison Caion, before Nguyễn Hữu Sơn equalised with a penalty kick. Captain Nguyễn Văn Quyết brought back the lead just before half-time for The Capital Team, before Caion emphatically sealed Hà Nội's victory with the last kick of the ball.

Despite rigorous pre-match security scans, fireworks were still snuck in by Hải Phòng fans, and were lit up at kick-off.

Looking not to disappoint the fans, Chu Đình Nghiêm's Hải Phòng side went into the match confidently.

However, it was the hosts who got the early advantage. In the 20th minute, from Đỗ Duy Mạnh's pinpoint long ball, Herlison Caion jumped forward, hitting the ball with the top of his head from just outside the box. The ball bounced in a wicked curve that went over Hải Phòng's keeper Nguyễn Đình Triệu, and landed into the back of the net.

Hải Phòng chased for the equaliser, and had a golden chance when Martin Lo was brought down inside the penalty area. Referee Mai Xuân Hùng quickly pointed to the spot, before VAR intervened and made Hùng take a second look. After consultation, the penalty stands and Hữu Sơn equalised with a powerful shot into the bottom corner.

When it looked like the first half is going to end in a draw, Hà Nội got a late penalty, as Hữu Sơn went from hero to zero with a clumsy handball inside the box. Văn Quyết cleverly fooled Đình Triệu to reclaim the hosts' lead.

The second half started with the hosts on the front foot. They could have increased the lead earlier, had Tuấn Hải's goal not been disallowed due to offside.

Hà Nội fans did not have to wait long for their third however, and as the saying goes, a good thing did come for those who wait. In the 90th minute, from a long throw in the left wing, Herlison Caion controlled the ball with his chest gracefully, before delivering a stunning overhead kick that beat Đình Triệu and went into the net.

With this victory, Hà Nội FC sits atop of the 2023 V-League 1, with 32 points, one point ahead of Hà Nội Police FC, who snatched victory at the last minute in their match against Nam Định. Hải Phòng on the other hand, are placed sixth with 22 points. 

Dien Bien City deeply flooded following heavy rains

A heavy rain that lasted from Wednesday evening till Thursday morning had deeply submerged many areas in the northern city of Dien Bien. 

Speaking with Dantri/Dtinews Newspaper on Thursday morning, a representative from Muong Thanh Ward People's Committee said that the rain started from 6.30pm on August 2 and lasted until 3am on August 3.

"Many streets including Vo Nguyen Giap, Truong Chinh, and Hoang Van Thai, and some residential areas were put nearly one metre under water by early this morning," the representative said.

According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the north and northern central regions will continue to face heavy rains on August 3 with average rainfall of between 30 - 70mm per day. Floods and landslides may occur in lowland and mountainous areas.

Rain will gradually stop from August 4. 

Tourist boat catches fire in Haiphong
 
Six crewmembers of a tourist boat managed to flee after it caught fire while on the way to the northern city of Haiphong for repairs late Wednesday afternoon. The fire broke out at the stern of the Bhaya tourist cruise boat at 5.15 pm on August 2.

Haiphong police said that the fire broke out at the stern of the Bhaya tourist cruise boat at 5.15 pm on August 2 when it was being taken from Ha Long Bay to Haiphong City for repairs.

The six crew members on the boat were unable to put out the fire which was spreading quickly. The captain then tried to direct it to shore in Phu Long Commune, Cat Hai District to seek help.

Haiphong fire services arrived and co-operated with other forces and local people to control the fire after half an hour.

Haiphong fire services arrived and co-operated with other forces and local people to control the fire after half an hour. However, the boat was nearly destroyed. Six crew members jumped out into the sea and were saved.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

Thai Binh province presents school to Lao locality

Vietnam’s northern province of Thai Binh has handed over a high school to the Lao northern province of Xayaboury, Lao media reported on August 3.

Located at the centre of Xayaboury town, the two-storey school cover 300 sq.m with 10 rooms, and a total investment capital of more than 5 billion VND (210,460 USD).

The People’s Committee of Thai Binh also presented 30 computers to the school which is scheduled to become operational in September.  

In his remarks, Xayaboury province Vice Governor Phetphixay Sounvilay noted that the school demonstrates cooperation between the two provinces, while contributing to consolidating the close ties between Vietnam and Laos.

The two localities signed a friendly cooperation agreement for 2021-2026 at a ceremony held online on November 4, 2021.

Under the document, they will re-establish the bilateral friendship and promote dissemination and education about the relations between the two countries and the two localities, and promote the land, people, and socio-economic development achievements and potential of each other.

They will cooperate in Party and political system building, create favourable conditions for delegation exchanges, and intensify collaboration in socio-economic and cultural development, and in State management across the fields.

Specifically, Thai Binh will provide 5 billion VND to help the Lao province build a high school. It will provide 8-10 scholarships for Xayaboury’s disadvantaged students to study in Thai Binh-based universities and colleges, while Xayaboury will present two full scholarships to Thai Binh’s students to study at Luang Prabang province’s Souphanouvong University.

Transport ministry approves 36 rest stations along North-South Expressway

The eastern wing of the North-South Expressway will have 36 rest stations as approved by Ministry of Transport on August 2.

Of them, six have been put into service, three under construction and the remainders yet to receive investment.

The ministry asked project management boards and the Vietnam Express Corporation (VEC) to make a list of project items and select appropriate investors in line with legal regulations.

The boards will also coordinate with local competent agencies in studying project areas.

For the rest stations of component projects managed by localities, the selection of investors and the construction will be on their side.

The North-South transport corridor, in which the North-South Expressway from Lang Son to Ca Mau acts as the “backbone” of the entire transportation system, plays an important role in national economic development.

The expressway runs through 32 provinces and cities, connecting four key economic regions, including two major economic centres - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam targets 3,000km and 5,000km of expressways by 2025 and 2030, respectively.

Capital city works to reduce traffic congestion

The capital city of Hanoi is adopting a range of measures to ensure traffic safety and reduce congestion at ‘traffic black spots’.

The city’s authorities want to increase the ratio of roads in comparison to buildings by up to 0.3%, with a target for this year set at 10.65%.

The People’s Committee of Hanoi has issued Plan No.195/KH-UBND, to address unsynchronised transportation infrastructure and traffic congestion spots throughout the city.

The city is also targeting a reduction in the number of traffic accidents, deaths and injuries by five to 10%.

The plan includes the annual handling of 8-10 traffic black spots in the city.

Hanoi will also work to ease traffic congestion, limit the duration of traffic jams to less than 30 minutes and address areas that frequently have traffic accidents.

Officials also want to improve public transportation to provide higher quality services for passengers to encourage them to take the bus instead of using cars and motorbikes.

The core mission is to build and refine regulations, mechanisms and policies to ensure traffic order and safety.

But, it’s key to align these regulations with the city’s sectorial planning, land use planning, urban and rural development planning and transportation planning.

Monitoring closely the implementation of the process will be a key priority, to ensure that new construction projects and improvement of industrial zones, urban areas, shopping malls, schools or hospitals will be equipped with the right transportation infrastructure and good public transport links.

The city should review and resolve the “black spots” known for their high frequency of traffic accidents.

Under the plan, unauthorised crossings over railroads must be eliminated and activities that encroach on roads or railways must also be addressed.

The city will work with other ministries to build standard evaluation systems for vehicles, materials and infrastructure to create good conditions for the production of environmentally-friendly transportation.

To achieve the plan, Hanoi should build up policies and legal frameworks in the transportation sector. The authorities will review and propose amendments to existing legal documents, ensuring they reflect the current situation and contribute to an efficient state management system for transportation.

Furthermore, the city will review and update transport development planning in line with current socio-economic conditions, ensuring alignment with national defence and security goals.

Hanoi will prioritise investing in and synchronising traffic infrastructure, especially projects that aim to reduce congestion in the city.

Stronger int'l commitment needed for global food security: Ambassador

Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations (UN), emphasised the need for a stronger commitment and collective efforts from the international community to break the vicious cycle between conflict and poverty on August 3.

In his remarks at an open debate on famine and conflict-induced global food security held by the UN Security Council (UNSC), the diplomat stressed that recent reports and discussions at the 43rd session of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Conference in Italy in July have shown that the world is facing an increasingly challenge regarding food security.

Despite various sectors experiencing recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity remains a serious problem in many parts of the world, especially conflict-affected regions, he said.

 Vietnam is committed to actively contributing to global food security by maintaining a stable export of rice and other agricultural products. (Photo: vneconomy.vn)
Preventing violence and promoting peace is the most effective way to prevent famine in those regions, he said, stressing that the UNSC needs to play a more effective role in addressing the root causes of conflicts, thereby reducing the risks of conflict-caused food insecurity.

The Vietnamese representative called on all parties involved in conflicts to respect the UN Charter and international law, especially international humanitarian law, and not to destroy essential infrastructure crucial for the life of civilians, particularly women and children, as stipulated in Resolution 2573 proposed by Vietnam during its presidency of the UNSC in April 2021.

The UNSC should collaborate more closely with specialised agencies such as FAO, the UN World Food Programme (WFP), and other international partners to address famine in conflict-affected areas, and enhance cooperation with regional organisations to strengthen the resilience of food systems and ensure global food supply chains, Giang said.

Food security is not only a goal but also a solution for Vietnam's socio-economic development, he affirmed, saying that the country prioritises the development of low-emission and climate-resilient agriculture, with the aim of turning Vietnam into a food innovation hub in the region.

Vietnam is committed to actively contributing to global food security by maintaining a stable export of rice and other agricultural products, and willing to work with the international community to address food insecurity caused by conflicts, the diplomat said.

Participants said that it is essential to strengthen the role of the UN, particularly the UNSC, in preventing conflicts and enhancing early warning systems for food security risks.

They also emphasised the necessity to improve the global food system in a more sustainable manner and ensure civilians’ access to food in conflicts.

Localities urged to take drastic measures against IUU fishing

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has asked localities to take strong measures to fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and prepare for the visit by the European Commission’s inspection team in October to assess Vietnam’s progress in combating IUU fishing.

Localities were asked to prioritise ensuring resources for implementing measures against IUU fishing, and take strong measures to prevent and stop fishing vessels and fishermen from illegal fishing in foreign waters.

Violations relating to arranging for vessels and fishermen to illegally fish in foreign waters investigated and verified in a timely way and strictly punished.

Regarding the management of fishing vessels, localities will conduct a comprehensive inspection and review all fishing vessels to make detailed records on both registered and unregistered vessels operating in areas outside their local fishing grounds, and those without vessel monitoring system (VMS).

Authorities must strictly control fishing vessels entering and leaving local ports, and those entering and exiting at the border posts and border stations.

Relevant agencies must fully update fishing vessel data into the national fisheries database (VNFishbase), prevent and strictly handle those  operating without VMS.

Localities must intensify the verification and certification of the origin traceability of aquatic products to ensure legality, and organise specialised inspections and examinations of enterprises that import raw aquatic materials for processing and exporting to the European market.

The MARD also asked relevant departments including the Fisheries Department and the Fisheries Surveillance Department to strengthen management and control over the import of aquatic products, fishing, and inspections.

The Fisheries Surveillance Department will have to coordinate with relevant agencies of the Ministries of National Defense, Public Security, and Foreign Affairs in organising interdisciplinary working groups to work with host countries where Vietnamese vessels are alleged to commit illegal fishing.

It was assigned to hold an online meeting with the EC in September to prepare for the 4th visit of EC’s inspectors in October.

Quang Tri enhances cooperation with Thailand

The People's Committee of central Quang Tri province, in collaboration with the Thai Embassy in Vietnam, on August 3 organised the “Connecting Quang Tri – Thailand” programme with the theme of “Quang Tri - Thailand's convergence and development cooperation point on East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC)”.

The event was to celebrate the 47th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Thailand diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the bilateral strategic partnership.

Quang Tri holds an important geopolitical and economic position in Vietnam’s central region, with a convenient location both on the North-South Economic Corridor route of Vietnam and along the EWEC. At present, the province has seven Thai-invested projects with a total registered capital of 109.22 million USD.

Vice Chairman of the provincial People's Committee Hoang Nam emphasised that the programme was a chance for Quang Tri to directly introduce its potential, strengths and opportunities for investment, trade and tourism cooperation to agencies, localities and businesses from Thailand; while serving as a venue for both sides to promote friendship and collaboration.

Thai Ambassador Nikorndej Balankura emphasised that Thailand and Quang Tri can strengthen cooperation in three main areas of politics, economics, and people-to-people exchanges.

Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Vo Van Hung affirmed that Quang Tri will create all favourable conditions for Thai investors, enterprises and people to seek cooperation opportunities and make tours to the locality.

NA Chairman leaves Vietnam to attend AIPA-44, visit Indonesia, Iran

Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Vuong Dinh Hue on August 4 left Hanoi for the 44th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-44) and official visits to Indonesia and Iran.

Taking place from August 4 to 10, his trip is made at the invitations of Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives and AIPA President Puan Maharani; and Speaker of the Iranian Consultative Assembly Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf.

The attendance of the NA Chairman at the AIPA-44 in Indonesia is a further step in implementing the policy of proactive, comprehensive, and extensive international integration and multilateral foreign relations elevation; as well as in promoting Vietnam's priority and enhancing the role and position of Vietnam at regional and global parliamentary cooperation mechanisms, contributing to the common diplomatic efforts of the Party and State serving the nation’s and people's interests.

Meanwhile, the official visits to Indonesia and Iran are made with a view to further implementing the foreign policy directions of the 13th National Party Congress, proactively consolidating and expanding the political relations, and promoting effective cooperation between Vietnam and the two countries in all areas and and on all channels of the party, national assembly, government, and people-to-people exchanges. The visits also target enhancing mutual trust with traditional partner countries and friends, as well as building and fortifying the relationships between the top leaders of Vietnam and the two countries.

Those visits affirm the importance that Vietnam attaches to developing and promoting friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with traditional partners in Asia and the Middle East, aiming to open up new opportunities for economic and trade collaboration and better coordination at international forums.

Vietnam, Cuba to hold various activities marking Fidel Castro's visit to Quang Tri

Chairman of the National Assembly (NA)’s Committee for External Relations Vu Hai Ha on August 3 expressed his hope that the Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam will work closely with relevant Vietnamese agencies to hold celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Cuban leader Fidel Castro’s visit to Vietnam and the southern Vietnam liberated zone in the central province of Quang Tri.

Receiving Ambassador Nicolás Hernández Guillén in Hanoi, Ha, who is also Chairman of the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Parliamentarians’ Group and Chairman of the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Association, said these activities will contribute to educating young generations about the traditional friendship between the two fraternal countries.

He also wished that the ambassador would continue fostering ties between the two nations and legislatures in the near future.

Following the Cuba visit by Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue and a high-ranking delegation from the Vietnamese NA in April, Vietnam and Cuba have witnessed positive developments in their relations, especially cooperation between the two legislative bodies, he added.

For his part, the Cuban ambassador affirmed that Cuba send a high-ranking delegation to Vietnam on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Fidel Castro’s visit to Vietnam.

Speaking highly of the theme and contents of the ninth Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians to be hosted by the Vietnamese NA, he thanked the Vietnamese legislature for inviting its Cuban counterpart to this event.

He also informed the host about several activities this year when Cuba assumes the role of rotating Chair of the Group of 77 and China.

Foreign minister holds phone talks with Beninese counterpart

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son held a phone talks with his counterpart from Benin Olushegun Adjadi Bakari on August 3, assuring that Vietnam always values and wishes to foster its traditional friendship and cooperation with the African country.

Son stressed that there remains a huge room for bilateral cooperation so that both sides need to step up bilateral economic ties.

Expressing impression on Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements over the past time, Bakari spoke highly of Vietnam’s role and position on the international arena. He stressed that Benin could learn from Vietnam’s development experience.

The two ministers agreed to facilitate the exchange of delegations, create favourable conditions for the two countries’ businesses and investors to share market information, promote trade-investment and cooperation in agriculture, science, telecoms and electronics.

They pledged to actively work together to soon sign the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the two foreign ministries, the agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders, and many other documents, thus creating a favourable legal framework for bilateral collaboration.

Son reiterated his invitation to Minister Bakari to visit Vietnam soon. The Beninese minister accepted the invitation with pleasure and expressed his belief that the visit will bring about new developments in the relationship between the two countries.

Vice President hails working trip by President of Kyodo News

Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan hailed the ongoing working trip by President of Japan's Kyodo News Toru Mizutani on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties, during a reception in Hanoi on August 3.

Xuan said Vietnam always considers Japan its top strategic partner in economic development. Japan is now the biggest ODA donor, the third largest investor, the third biggest tourism partner and the fourth largest trade partner of Vietnam.

In her view, activities during the guest’s visit, including the signing of a professional cooperation agreement between the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) and Kyodo News and a photo exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties, have contributed to realising common perceptions reached by the two countries’ leaders regarding specific measures to beef up Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia.

She believed that the two news agencies will build on the past achievements to enhance the sharing of professional expertise and experience, thus spreading news widely in the digital environment. 

Speaking highly of information and communication activities regarding bilateral relations conducted by the VNA and Kyodo News in recent years, she suggested that both sides should continue effective cooperation amid the strong development of information technology and digital transformation.

The host also urged Kyodo News to further promote the dissemination of information and photos to help the Japanese people and international friends have a better understanding of Vietnam, its people and culture.

Mizutani, for his part, said Kyodo News has been working closely with the VNA in terms of expertise to enhance media activities and contribute to strengthening the traditional relationship between the two countries.

Recently, leaders of the two news agencies held talks and signed a bilateral cooperation agreement on digital and professional contents to ensure the effectiveness of information cooperation and contribute to the overall development of the world, he said.

He pledged to continue increasing information about the Vietnamese country, its people and potential to draw investors from Japan and the world.

During talks with President Mitzutani in the morning the same day, VNA General Director Vu Viet Trang hailed Kyodo News for partnering with the VNA to hold a photo exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. She hoped that photos on display will contribute to lifting Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership to a greater height.

She told the guest that the VNA now has more than 2,000 employees, including over 1,000 reporters and editors, providing more than 60 information products in 10 languages and various forms.

According to her, the VNA is promoting digital transformation in news production and dissemination processes. As the public tend to turn to social media instead of traditional media for information, the news agency remains steadfast in maintaining the core values of journalism, which are objectivity, accuracy and timeliness. At the same time, it continues striving for professionalism in its operations to meet the evolving demands of the audience.

Mizutani described the VNA as the most long-standing and closest partner of Kyodo News.

Both sides discussed the outcomes of bilateral coordination and proposed cooperation contents in the new period.

On the occasion, leaders of the two news agencies signed a professional cooperation agreement.

Accordingly, the VNA will provide Kyodo News with free access to news in Vietnamese and English, and photo captions in English. Meanwhile, Kyodo News will also supply news in Japanese and English, English captions for photos to the VNA for free, in service of disseminating news for foreign service of each side.

They will continue assisting their respective correspondents and representative offices in Hanoi and Tokyo, creating favourable conditions for journalists to objectively and fully cover the domestic situation, bilateral relations, important global and regional events in each country.

Both sides will facilitate visits by their leaders annually to share experience in strengthening media cooperation and enhancing their role as a key news agency in their country in providing information for the press systems.

They also agreed to offer mutual support at multilateral forums such as the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA) of which both are members.

Friendship Order conferred upon chairperson of World University Services Germany

The Vietnamese State has conferred the Friendship Order on President of the World University Services (WUS) Germany Kambiz Ghawami, acknowledging his contributions to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Germany.

Presenting the order to Ghawami at a ceremony in Hanoi on August 3, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son expressed his appreciation for Ghawami's affection, enthusiasm, and active support for the bilateral relations over the years, especially in arranging activities of high-level Vietnamese delegations visiting Germany, and in connecting many Vietnamese educational institutions to German and international partners for collaboration. The WUS Germany President has also contributed significantly to advancing the construction and development of the Vietnam-Germany University.

The diplomat hoped that Ghawami, who is also the authorised representative of the German state of Hessen for coordinating activities with Vietnam, will continue to utilise his experience and capabilities to make further contributions to Vietnam’s ties with Germany in general and with Hessen in particular. Son suggested that bilateral cooperation focus on such priority areas as education-training, energy transition, digital transformation, processing-manufacturing industry, high technology, locality-to-locality cooperation, and people-to-people exchange.

Expressing his joy and honour, Ghawami thanked the effective cooperation and assistance from the foreign ministry, many other public agencies, and friends in Vietnam.

He vowed to continue to accompany partners and friends of the two countries and make efforts to further propel forward the development of Vietnam-Germany and Vietnam-Hessen relations.

Logo, website of 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians unveiled

The visual identity, logo, website, and official trailer of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians were announced at a ceremony in Hanoi on August 3.

Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Vuong Dinh Hue attended the event and pressed the symbolic button for the launch of the visual identity and the logo.

Speaking at the ceremony, NA Secretary General and Chairman of the NA Office Bui Van Cuong, who is also the deputy head of the conference's organising committee, stressed that the important conference, scheduled for September 14-17 in Hanoi, will continue to affirm Vietnam's active, responsible, and proactive participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the largest global parliamentary organization.

He further explained that the logo was designed to highlight two elements – the letter "Y" representing the word "Youth," and five "Y" letters symbolising delegates from five continents gathering in the Vietnamese capital city to participate in the conference. Vietnam, as the host country, is placed at the centre with red and yellow colours and a five-pointed star.

The conference's website, https://nghisitre.quochoi.vn/, consists of five sections and eight categories, presented in both English and Vietnamese languages. It also includes direct links to the specialised page of the conference at IPU.org.

The conference is themed "The role of young people in promoting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals through digital transformation and innovation.” Its panel discussion will focus on three main topics of digital transformation; entrepreneurship and innovation; and cultural diversity for sustainable development.

Vietnamese citizens in Niger remain safe, one requests evacuation

All Vietnamese nationals in Niger are safe, and the Vietnamese Embassy is actively implementing measures to protect the citizens, according to Nguyen Viet Son, first secretary in charge of consular and citizen protection affairs at the embassy, given the tense situation in the African country following the July 26 military coup.

The diplomat said the embassy has been closely monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with two Vietnamese individuals and one Vietnamese-Niger family residing in Niger. No cases of Vietnamese citizens facing danger have been reported so far.

On August 2, a Vietnamese national who worked for an international organisation was stranded in Niamey, and requested assistance from the embassy. A safe evacuation from Niger will be organised for this citizen.

Son said the embassy is developing various contingency plans to ensure the protection of Vietnamese citizens in all circumstances.

The Vietnamese embassy has updated its hotline number on its website and Facebook page, allowing those in need of assistance to contact them via the hotline around the clock. Additionally, it has advised the Vietnamese community to be cautious for their safety, limit unnecessary travel, and comply with local laws. Vietnamese Ambassador to Algeria Tran Quoc Khanh has also been in touch with the Ambassador of Niger to Algeria, asking measures to ensure the safety of the expats.

If necessary, overseas Vietnamese can contact the Vietnamese Embassy in Algeria through the hotline 213558305909 and the embassy's Facebook page.

Due to the prolonged security challenges in Niger, there are relatively few Vietnamese citizens residing and doing business there, estimated at around 30.

Deputy minister attends ASEAN Defence Senior Officials' Meeting Plus

A Vietnamese delegation led by Deputy Minister of National Defence Lieut. Sen. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien attended the ASEAN Defence Senior Officials' Meeting Plus (ADSOM+) in Jakarta, Indonesia on August 3, with 10 ASEAN member states and 8 dialogue partner countries taking part.   

In his keynote speech, Deputy Minister Chien said the region and the world are facing a series of security challenges, both traditional and non-traditional, notably those concerning maritime security. These challenges are occurring in many places and cause severe consequences that go beyond the capacity of a single nation to handle, thus requiring the international community to join hands to address them.  

About maritime security, he stressed that the East Sea is a vital maritime route for global and regional trade so that peace, stability and security in the region are of utmost importance.    

Vietnam always follows the principle of settling disputes and differences in the East Sea through peaceful means, based on respect for independence, sovereignty, and legitimate interests of nations, and compliance with international law, he said.

He underlined the significance of strengthening collective efforts to ensure the maintenance of international law and principles in international relations, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC). He also emphasised the need to promptly conclude negotiations and sign an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in line with international law.

According to him, ASEAN's defence cooperation with its partners has been growing and becoming stronger. He heightened the importance of building trust, goodwill, transparency and working together to address common challenges in order to build a robust ASEAN community and uphold ASEAN's central role.   
       
On the sidelines of the ADSOM and ADSOM+ , Chien held bilateral meetings with heads of delegations of the host country Indonesia, Japan and Australia. He also met bilaterally with heads of delegations of China, Russia, India, Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia. These meetings aimed to discuss and promote the implementation of important defence-related matters, especially high-level exchange activities, policy dialogues, and defence strategy.

The discussions covered various topics, including important events related to defence and security, such as multilateral and bilateral forums and conferences. The bilateral meetings and engagements played a significant role in enhancing political trust, goodwill and cooperation between Vietnam and its partners in an effective and practical manner.

Vietnam attends ASEAN meetings on environment in Indonesia

A Vietnamese delegation is attending the 34th meeting of ASEAN Senior Officials on the Environment (ASOEN) and related meetings in Bogor city of West Java province, Indonesia, from July 31 to August 4.

The delegation is led by Le Ngoc Tuan, Director of the International Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) and Chief of the Vietnam ASEAN Office, the MoNRE said.

The annual chain of meetings are attended by senior officials of ASEAN member countries, partners, the ASEAN Secretariat, and international organisations.

Apart from the 34th ASOEN meeting, the events also include the 17th ASEAN - Japan Dialogue on Environment, the 3rd ASEAN - Republic of Korea Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change, the 5th ASEAN - EU High-Level Dialogue on Environment and Climate Change, the ASEAN - US Senior Officials’ Meeting on environment and climate change, and the 20th meeting of ASEAN Plus Three senior officials on environment.

The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity coordinated with host Indonesia and the ASEAN Secretariat to hold several meetings.

A consultation also took place to consider the final draft ASEAN declaration on climate change. The draft will be submitted to the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Environment and the ASEAN Summit for approval before the declaration is proposed to the coming 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).

The Vietnamese delegation actively participated in and made contributions to the meetings, winning high evaluation from other ASEAN countries, according to the MoNRE.

Photo exhibition on Vietnam-Japan ties opens

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations (September 21, 1973 - September 21, 2023), the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), in collaboration with Japan's Kyodo News, on August 3 opened in Hanoi a photo exhibition entitled "Vietnam - Japan: Towards the Future, Reaching out to the World”.

On display are 50 large-sized photos carefully selected from the archives of both the VNA and Kyodo News, featuring the panorama of the friendly and cooperative relations between Vietnam and Japan over the past five decades.

Speaking at the event, VNA General Director Vu Viet Trang affirmed that the year 2023 holds special significance as the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.

The weeklong exhibition is organised with a desire to popularise the two countries’ cooperation achievements over the past half a century, as well as the potential and opportunities for further development in their future cooperative relationship, she said, adding that with the exhibition, the two news agencies wish to introduce their effective collaboration in information and communications since 1980s.

Throughout their development stages, they have always provided each other with extremely effective support and assistance in both bilateral cooperation and at multilateral forums, enabling them to fulfill their media missions, deliver official, timely, and modern information to the public in both countries and bring information to the world, Trang said.

For his part, Kyodo President Toru Mizutani said that the photos on display symbolise the exchange and friendship between the two countries in various fields, affirming their extensive and diverse cooperation.

As the theme of this event goes, he said he hopes that Japan and Vietnam will jointly move towards the future and further deepen their friendship and cooperation for peace and stability in the world.

Visitors to the exhibition will have an opportunity to look back on the significant milestones and prominent events over the past five decades in all bilateral cooperation areas captured by photographers from the VNA and Kyodo News.

Those photos create the most authentic, lively and clearest evidence of the fine Vietnam-Japan friendly relations. Not only the two nations share numerous strategic benefits, their leaders and peoples also enjoy a close bond of mutual trust and support in various fields.

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