Hungary consistently regards Vietnam as its most crucial partner in Southeast Asia, Hungarian President Katalin Novák stated at a January 19 meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, who is paying an official visit to the European country.

Novák said she hopes Hungary-Vietnam cooperation will continue to develop across all sectors based on mutual respect, and become a model for East-West collaboration. She described PM Chinh’s visit as a significant milestone in the Hungary-Vietnam comprehensive partnership, and acknowledged Vietnam's role and position regionally and globally.

The president urged the two sides to closely coordinate to implement the agreements reached during the Vietnamese PM's visit to leverage the existing potential and promote cooperation in all fields, from politics, economy-trade-investment, to education-training, culture, and people-to-people exchange. 

For his part, PM Chinh said in implementing an independent, self-reliant, diversified, and multilateral foreign policy, Vietnam always places importance on strengthening relations with traditional friends, including Hungary – a priority partner in Central Eastern Europe.
 
Chinh called for increased contact and exchanges at all levels and between their ministries, sectors, and localities to enhance political trust and mutual understanding, which he said is the foundation for promoting and expanding bilateral cooperation across all aspects.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of economy-trade-investment collaboration, considering it a driving force for bilateral relations in the years to come. In this spirit, PM Chinh proposed that President Novák encourage Hungarian companies to boost business partnerships with their Vietnamese peers, particularly in areas where Hungary excels such as pharmaceuticals, animal husbandry, food processing, renewable energy, and water management. 

Disclosing her intention to visit Vietnam this year, the Hungarian President suggested that the two sides coordinate to organise the 10th Meeting of the Vietnam-Hungary Joint Committee on Economic Cooperation during her visit.

Regarding education and training, both sides were pleased with positive results obtained in this traditional cooperation area, highlighting the effectiveness of direct collaboration between the nations’ universities and training institutions. Currently, nearly 1,000 Vietnamese students are studying at Hungarian universities through scholarships granted by the Hungarian government.

The leaders agreed to continue maintaining sideline contacts at multilateral forums and closely coordinating and supporting each other within international organisations, especially the UN, Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), and ASEAN-EU mechanism, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

They also concur to join hands in addressing new global challenges such as climate change, food security, and aging population.

On the occasion, PM Chinh thanked the Hungarian government for its support for the Vietnamese expatriate community. He said he hopes that the group will continue to be provided with favourable conditions to stabilise their lives, integrate more deeply into Hungary’s society, and make positive contributions to the host country’s socio-economic development and to the two nations’ traditional friendship.

Vietnam pledges to nurture traditional ties with Hungary: PM

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh affirmed Vietnam's enduring commitment to nurturing the traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation with Hungary during his meeting with Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian National Assembly (NA) Jakab István in Budapest on January 19.

PM Chinh hailed Hungary for considering Vietnam a priority partner in Southeast Asia.

Briefing the host about the outcomes of talks with his Hungarian counterpart, he suggested the Hungarian legislature assist the two Governments in realising cooperation agreements reached during the visit, spanning various key areas such as politics, economy-trade-investment, education-training, culture, sci-tech and labour.

István, for his part, affirmed the significance of PM Chinh’s visit, noting its role in strengthening the lasting friendship and extensive cooperation between the two nations.

He commended Vietnam's socio-economic achievements and its increasingly influential role on the global stage, emphasising that Vietnam remains a priority partner in Hungary's Eastern Opening policy.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the positive evolution of bilateral relations, particularly in political and diplomatic realms through all Party, State and NA channels. They committed to further facilitating the exchange of delegations, leveraging the roles of the two countries' Friendship Parliamentarians' Groups, and working closely together at inter-parliamentary forums.

They pledged to bolster economic ties through fostering collaboration in traditional sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals and food processing while also working closely together in emerging fields such as green transition, digital transformation, circular economy and innovation.

On the occasion, the Vietnamese PM thanked the Hungarian NA for being the first in the European Union (EU) to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

He also proposed that the Hungarian NA encourage the remaining EU member states to promptly approve this agreement. Additionally, he sought support for the European Commission (EC) to lift the yellow card warning on Vietnamese seafood.

The guest also extended thanks to the Hungarian NA and all-level authorities for creating favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community to integrate and settle down in the country.

The host leader acknowledged their positive contributions to the local socio-economic development and affirmed a commitment to further supporting them so that they can effectively promote their role as a bridge for the development of the friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.

PM meets Vietnamese community in Hungary

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with staff members of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives from the Vietnamese community in Hungary in Budapest on January 19, as part of his official visit to the European country.

The Vietnamese community in Hungary numbers about 6,000, most of whom live in Budapest and adjacent areas, according to Ambassador Nguyen Thi Bich Thao. She said the community is united and organises many activities to preserve the national cultural characteristics and promote Vietnam’s image in the host society.

Addressing the meeting, PM Chinh mentioned the Politburo’s Resolution 36 on overseas Vietnamese affairs which emphasizes that the overseas Vietnamese are an integral part of the community of ethnic groups of Vietnam.

The Government and National Assembly took many actions in implementing the resolution last year, including addressing issues related to ID cards, visa and property ownership of overseas Vietnamese, he said, pledging more will be done to ensure that the overseas Vietnamese are an integral part of the Vietnamese nation.   

He commended the Vietnamese community in Hungary for their unity and contributions to the host country while keeping the national cultural identity and promoting Vietnam, adding that during this visit, he has repeatedly asked the Hungarian government to continue facilitating the integration of the Vietnamese community, including the recognition of the community as an ethnic minority group of Hungary.           

The Government leader said Vietnam is researching policies to attract overseas talents and called on Vietnamese scholars and researchers in the world and Hungary in particular to join in scientific-technological research and innovation in Vietnam as well as in the building of an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City.

He requested that the Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary to take better care of the Vietnamese community, maintain close connection with the community and support their activities while pushing for the recognition of Vietnamese in Hungary as an ethnic minority group.

Representatives from the community expressed their wish for continued support from the Vietnamese State in connecting them with the country and Vietnamese communities in other countries, promoting the Vietnamese culture, including the teaching of Vietnamese, and facilitating their involvement in projects in Vietnam.

Vietnam prioritises developing comprehensive strategic partnership with China

Vietnam considers developing relations with China the strategic choice and top priority in its foreign policy, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang said at a reception hosted by the Chinese ambassador marking 74 years of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and China.

He said the stable and sustainable development of bilateral relations is in line with the practical interests of the two peoples and is beneficial to cooperation and prosperous development of the region and the wider world.

Quang noted that, the Vietnam - China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership developed positively and recorded great achievements of historical significance following the historic visit to China in late October 2022 by Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.

In addition, both countries agreed to further deepen and elevate the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and build a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance during the December 2023 visit to Vietnam by General Secretary and President Xi Jinping.

This is an important milestone in the development of Vietnam-China relations, a new positioning that brings relations between the two Parties and the two countries into an even better stage of development, stressed the Deputy PM.

Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam Xiong Bo affirmed China is ready to work with Vietnam to realise common perceptions of the two countries’ senior leaders so as to further foster the Vietnam – China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and to bring practical benefits for the two countries’ peoples.

He recalled the results of the talks between Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and Chinese Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, saying the two sides vowed to develop bilateral relations in a new phase with higher political trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper mutually beneficial cooperation, stronger popular support, closer multilateral coordination, and better handling of differences.

VIRESA introduces esports to people with disabilities

Esports is introduced to people with disabilities on January 17 in HCM City. Photos courtesy of VIRESA

The Việt Nam Recreational and Electronic Sports Association (VIRESA) officially introduced esports to the disability community on January 17 in HCM City.

The event was jointly organised by VIRESA and the City's Sports Training and Competition Centre.

Currently, there are more than 15 sports organised for disabled people living and working in HCM City, of which nine are strongly developed with annual national championships. Outstanding athletes often take part in international tournaments and Paralympics.

With a purpose of diversifying sports for people with disabilities, creating opportunities for disabled athletes to participate in new field of sports, VIRESA introduced a number of esports such as EA FC Online, League of Legends and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, that are being competed at regional sports competitions such as the SEA Games and Asian Games as well as major domestic and international tournaments.

The aims is to develop esports movements and discover talented players who will be national team members to prepare for the 2026 ASEAN Paragames in Thailand when esports is expected to be an official competition.

Also at the event, participants had opportunities to experience and play esports on computers and smart phones. They were also introduced to new and interesting career opportunities related to esports and suitable with people with disabilities such as: content creators, streamers and programmers.

"VIRESA hopes to popularise esports among the people with disabilities community. This introducing programme is part of our roadmap to develop esports in HCM City," said VIRESA Chairman Nguyễn Xuân Cường.

He added that previously VIRESA supported the organisation of esports at the 2023 ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia. Recognising the development of this new generation sport in the people with disabilities community in Southeast Asia, VIRESA formed a plan to develop esports for disabled people in Việt Nam. 

The January 17 programme was expected to be a premise to expand e-sports tournaments for people with disabilities. It will promote equality and the disabled people's intergration to the esports community, giving them opportunities to prove their talent and shine in tournaments. 

Run on, go beyond - Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race 2024 officially opens registration

Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon - Heritage Race has officially announced its race date of November 3rd. This is the 10th country the iconic Standard Chartered Marathon franchise will be held.

The event is among key events to celebrate 120 years presence of Standard Chartered in Việt Nam.

Michele Wee, CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam, said: “We are very proud to be the title sponsor, bringing the first edition of the Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race to Hà Nội, an event that celebrates the richness of culture and heritage. Leveraging the expertise from our Standard Chartered Marathon franchise, we aim to bring a new and enhanced experience to all participants. This is a testament to our strong commitment in the country as we look forward to long-term and sustainable growth in Việt Nam, 120 years and beyond.”

The Super Early Bird campaign will start from 16 January 2024, offering the highest discount in the year.

During the promotion period, Standard Chartered cardholders will still receive an additional 10 per cent discount on the already reduced price when purchasing with Standard Chartered cards. Each eligible card may be used one time only during the promotion period. The organising committee will provide details about the Super Early Bird programme on the Race’s Fanpage and Website.

Standard Chartered Marathon Heritage Race Hanoi 2024 is open to all participants, from professional to amateur runners, bringing people from all walks of life together to stay active and lead a healthy lifestyle, while promoting running as a culture and sport heritage of the capital. The race also aims to elevate Việt Nam’s position in the marathon world, contributing to the sustainable development of Việt Nam’s tourism and making the country a favourite destination of runners and the international community.

The running route will pass iconic cultural heritages of Hà Nội where runners have chance to experience an “antique Hà Nội” and its beauties in the fall-winter season. All the side-line activities will adhere to sustainability criteria, honouring the enduring value of heritage, blending sports with culture and art.

There are various distances for runners of all levels, from full marathon (42.195 km) to half marathon (21.097 km), 10km and 5km, and a distance specifically for children from 5 to 12 years old. 

Việt Nam take places at ITF Asia 14 & Under Development Championships finals

Việt Nam advanced to the finals of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Asia 14 & Under Development Championships 2024 after winning the regional qualifier on January 17 in Bắc Ninh Province. 

After two stages of the tournament, No 1 seed Lê Tiến Anh of Việt Nam won the boys' single title after beating No 4 Ashlin De Silva of Sri Lanka 6-0, 6-3.

On the girls' side, Naba Nishan trounced teammates Manha Mohamed Ali 6-0, 6-1 in the all-Maldives final to take the girls' top place.

In the doubles events, Tiến Anh and teammate Vũ Tuấn Phong beat Ashlin De Silva and Risith Somaratna of Sri Lanka 6-4, 7-6 to take the boys' gold while Akeesha Hirundi Silva Diyunuge and Sandithi Usgoda Arachchi of Sri Lanka defeated Manha Mohamed Ali and Nishan to bring home the girls' title.

Vietnamese female players did not have their best performance this event. Huỳnh Ngọc Khánh did the best, taking No 4 in the girls' singles.

Việt Nam and Sri Lanka will be two representatives of the South, Southeast and East Asia to compete in the finals in India from April 8-17. 

The qualifying tournament featured 28 athletes from seven countries of Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Cambodia, Brunei and the hosts. 

Essence of Education conveyed through traditional music

The Centre for Temple of Literature Cultural and Scientific Activities has launched the album Tinh Hoa Đạo Học (Essence of Education) Vol 1 by musician Đinh Khánh Ly.

The album is part of the Temple of Literature's night tour programme, one of the most well-known night tours in Hà Nội recently.

"I was truly proud of the opportunity to contribute to the music composition for the Temple of Literature night tour during my musical endeavours. This album aligns with my aim to spread traditional creative and musical values to the general public," said musician Đinh Khánh Ly.

The album includes six ethnic musical instrument ensembles closely following the theme of the 3D mapping in the night tour. The album also utilises parts of the background music from the Temple of Literature.

The core values ​​of the album – Vietnamese stories and tales about schools, ancient academics, and the obstacles and challenges that each person must overcome to achieve success in education – are portrayed clearly through each song.

For example, the song Tứ linh huấn tử praises the four bas-reliefs at the initiation area, along with the image of a father guiding and nurturing his son to enlightenment from an early age.

The song Tinh hoa Đạo học (Essence of Education) conveys the values ​​and philosophy of education passed down through generations of Vietnamese people.

The song Đồng dao Hành trình Đạo học (The Journey of Education) is written about the journey of a gentleman using education to cultivate himself and then devote himself to the people and the country.

The song Đệ nhất sắc hương (The Most Beauty Colour and Fragrance) is inspired by the softness of the lotus flower, evoking the elegance and purity of the soul of the Vietnamese people.

The solemn song Vinh quy bái tổ (Honouring the Ancestors) honours the new graduates who bring praise to their families and homeland.

The night tour creates a symphony of mysterious sparkling light, traditional music, and quintessential values in Vietnamese educational history, enticing visitors to the Temple of Literature.

"This is the first time a musician has composed an album about the Temple of Literature. A very appealing artistic medium embodies the values of the relic and heritage connected to education," said Lê Xuân Kiêu, director of the Centre for Temple of Literature Cultural and Scientific Activities.

"It evokes strong feelings in the audience and fosters a sense of dedication to Vietnamese heritage and the Temple of Literature."

"We hope that the album Essence of Education by musician Đinh Khánh Ly will open the door for other artworks about the Temple of Literature. Soon, artists may find a lot of inspiration for cultural artwork from this relic,” said Kiêu.

Born in 1990 in Hòa Bình Province, Đinh Khánh Ly is known as the talented young musician behind the success of documentary soundtrack songs, including Đại thi hào Nguyễn Du (Great Poet Nguyễn Du) and Bình Minh phía trước (The Dawn Ahead).

In 2016, she carried out a personal project to renew ví folk songs from Nghệ An Province to bring traditional music closer to the general public. 

Miss World Business Vietnam 2024 launched

Dong Nai province’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has received the green light to organise the Miss World Business Vietnam 2024 pageant.      

The beauty contest is now open to Vietnamese businesswomen aged between 18 and 55 with a height of above 1.55 metres. The contestants are required to either live or work in the country.

The organisers will select contestants in the preliminary round to be held from January 1 to March 15.

The semi-final round is scheduled to take place from April 1 to 15, whilst the final round is set to get underway between May 1 and 19.

The contest’s objective is to create a platform specifically for talented and beautiful businesswomen nationwide to demonstrate their ability, helping them to engage in economic integration and join community activities, according to the organisers.

HCM City headquarters tour service upgrades proposed

The HCM City Department of Tourism has recommended providing more services to serve tourists visiting the HCM City People’s Committee and the People’s Council headquarters.

According to the HCM City Department of Tourism, around 10,000 tourists, including many foreigners, visited the HCM City People’s Committee and the People’s Council headquarters last year. Searches related to tours to this destination reached around 22 million on Google. 

Tourists at the HCM City People’s Committee and the People’s Council headquarters: Photo by the HCM City Department of Tourism

The building tours promote the history of HCM City as well as diversify the city’s tourism products.

However, the department has also noted the weaknesses of the programme. Specifically, there is a lack of automatic scanning at the entrance gate, leading to overstaffing. Additionally, there is no automated multilingual audio service for visitors.

The department has proposed adding an area at the headquarters to showcase the economic, cultural, and social achievements of HCM City since 1975. It was also necessary to arrange an area for selling souvenirs and establish a unit devoted to managing tours of the headquarters.

The Department of Tourism will work with concerned agencies to build software to book tours and provide audio guides.

Visits to the headquarters of the HCM City People's Council and People's Committee are scheduled to run 14 times through the year with each lasting just two days. Notably, there will be two sessions in January, May, and September, while the remaining months will have only one session, scheduled for the final weekend of each month. 

Hai Duong proposes major ecotourism site

Authorities in the northern province of Hai Duong are proposing the development of the Thanh Long Lake Ecotourism Site in Chi Linh City to the prime minister.Covering some 1,600 hectares, the Thanh Long Lake Ecotourism Site is set to contribute to preserving and raising the values of the Con Son-Kiep Bac historical site as well as local socio-economic development.

In a recent visit to Hai Duong, PM Pham Minh Chinh also inspected the area and encouraged the development of the project. He stressed that the project was expected to help promote the Yen Tu-Vinh Nghiem-Con Son-Kiep Bac landscape and relic complex that is seeking UNESCO recognition. Con Son-Kiep Bac has been identified as being a site where forces were trained to fight against the Mongolian invaders during the period of the Tran Dynasty.

At a recent meeting, Hai Duong Chairman Trieu The Hung assigned local departments to work on the project.

According to the committee, they have signed an MoU with the Xuan Truong Company on investment into the Thanh Long Lake Ecotourism Site. The company intended to spend VND20 trillion on the project with some key works including a large pagoda and three towers built on the lake.

"The site is expected to become an ecological and historical site that can attract both domestic and foreign visitors," the committee said in their proposal. 

Government okays Quang Nam’s development plan until 2030

The Government has officially approved Quang Nam Province’s comprehensive development plan for the 2021-2030 period, with a vision to 2050. The goal is to transform Quang Nam into a centrally-governed city by 2050.

This strategic plan is closely aligned with the policies and development plans of the Party and State, in line with the broader socioeconomic development objectives of the nation. The province aims to achieve an annual gross regional domestic product (GRDP) growth rate of 8% by 2030.

A pivotal aspect of this development plan involves upgrading Chu Lai Airport to meet international standards. Quang Nam is committed to enhancing key sectors, including auto manufacturing and assembly, and the production of mechanical, electrical, and electronic goods.

Specifically, the province will establish a national multi-purpose mechanical and automotive center. Priority will also be given to developing the supporting industry alongside logistics services associated with seaports, airports, and railways.

Quang Nam’s development strategy is built upon the framework of “two regions, two motivational clusters, and three development corridors.” The eastern region, comprising coastal areas, will prioritize the growth of key economic sectors such as maritime, industry, trade, services, tourism and agriculture.

Notable areas within this region include Tam Ky, designated as an administrative, economic, and educational center, and Hoi An, envisioned as an ecological, cultural, and tourism city. Dien Ban will focus on industrial and scientific development.

Motivational clusters, like Dien Ban-Hoi An-Dai Loc, will connect with Danang to formulate a series of riverside and coastal towns. Meanwhile, Tam Ky-Nui Thanh-Phu Ninh cluster is poised to create synergies among three administrative units in the region, fostering industrial growth, seaport and air logistics services, trade, and sea tourism.

As part of this extensive plan, Nui Thanh District will merge with Tam Ky City to attain first-class city status.

HCMC opens Thao Dien night market

HCMC opened the Thao Dien night street in Thu Duc City on Friday, offering another nighttime destination for locals and visitors.

The night market on Xuan Thuy Street, adjacent to Quoc Huong and Nguyen Van Huong streets, will operate every Friday and Saturday, from 19:00 to 2:00.

The city has plans to develop a water bus route to connect with the market, further promoting the night economy in the area.

Stretching over 465 meters, this night street will transform into a cultural hub for Thu Duc City, showcasing the culinary delights and cultural products of HCMC. Alongside dining and shopping experiences, visitors can enjoy musical performances, including folk songs, jazz, and rock.

To enhance the visitor experience, electric vehicles will be available to provide free transportation within the market area, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all.

The Thao Dien night street will undergo a trial run from January 19 to July 19, with funding provided by the private sector. Following the trial period, local authorities will evaluate its operation and make necessary adjustments.

Former editors-in-chief arrested for State asset management violations

The Investigation Security Agency under the HCMC Department of Public Security on January 16 issued an order to prosecute former editors-in-chief of Thanh Nien Newspaper for “violating regulations on the management and use of state assets”.

Nguyen Cong Khe who is also the chairman of the board of directors of Thanh Nien Media Corporation Joint Stock Company and Nguyen Quang Thong have been detained for violations in the development of an office building, commercial center, and luxury apartment project located at 151-155 Ben Van Don street, Ward 6, District 4, HCMC.

They are being investigated for “violating regulations on the management and use of State assets, causing losses and wastefulness”.

The Investigation Security Agency under the HCMC Department of Public Security is expanding the investigation to clarify violations and identify the responsibilities of related individuals and organizations.

Sconnect: eOne claims Wolfoo copyright despite no Peppa Pig ownership

Although eOne no longer holds the rights to Peppa Pig, it continues to claim copyright over Wolfoo on YouTube.

Therefore, Sconect, the creator of Wolfoo, has gathered documentation and evidence to submit to the court, the National Competition Commission, and relevant authorities in Vietnam to investigate and address eOne's alleged misuse and unhealthy competition practices.

A spokesperson from Sconect Vietnam disclosed that eOne and Sconnect have been pursuing a copyright dispute case at the Business and Property Courts of England and Wales since the beginning of 2022.

Presently, the UK court is actively handling the case, and no rulings have been issued thus far indicating any copyright infringement by Wolfoo. Despite this, for over two years, eOne has persistently enforced copyright claims on Wolfoo videos, resulting in unwarranted removal of 3,500 Wolfoo videos by YouTube.

Following Sconnect's submission of administrative complaints to Vietnamese State agencies and the initiation of two lawsuits against eOne in the People's Court of Hanoi, YouTube reinstated access to the Wolfoo channels. Regrettably, the over 3,500 Wolfoo videos deleted by YouTube earlier (at eOne's request) remain unrecoverable.

As per information from Sconect, during the course of participating in the global dispute resolution with eOne, despite repeated requests by Sconect for evidence demonstrating that eOne is the rightful owner of the Peppa Pig animated characters and providing the original works of the audio/visual elements claimed to be infringed upon as a basis for accusing Sconect of copyright violation, as of now, eOne has yet to furnish the necessary evidence to substantiate their ownership rights.

 Over 30 Wolfoo channels have their upload rights blocked for an extended period, resulting in an estimated loss of over US$10 million to Sconnect.
 
According to Sconect Vietnam, citing sources from Variety.com and Nasdaq.com, on December 27, 2023, Hasbro, the parent company of eOne, officially announced the successful completion of the sale of its film and television business, specifically eOne, to Lionsgate. As outlined in the purchase agreement, well-known IP characters not included in the sale to Lionsgate consist of "Peppa Pig," "Transformers," "Dungeons & Dragons," "Magic: The Gathering," "My Little Pony," "Power Rangers," "Play-Doh," and "Clue." With this transfer agreement in place, Peppa Pig will no longer fall under the ownership of eOne once the transaction is finalized.

Despite disassociating from the Peppa Pig animated characters since September 1, 2023, eOne continued to misuse copyright claims on Sconnect's Wolfoo 2D videos on the YouTube platform throughout the months of September, October, November, and December 2023, as well as January 2024. Additionally, eOne extended copyright claims to Sconnect's Wolfoo 3D-video products, even though these 3D-animated products were not part of the dispute in the UK court. Throughout November and December 2023, eOne consistently sent objection letters to the European Union Intellectual Property Office to contest the registration of Sconnect's Wolfoo trademark in the EU.

As stated by a representative from Sconnect Vietnam, the copyright violations by eOne against Wolfoo are clear-cut. Sconnect has gathered documentation and evidence on this issue, intending to submit them to the court, the National Competition Commission, and relevant State agencies in Vietnam to elucidate and seek action against eOne's abusive and unhealthy competitive practices.

2023 Mai Vang Awards’ winners revealed

The 2023 Mai Vang (Golden Apricot Blossom) Award ceremony honoring artists in different fields of Television programs, serials, stage, cinema, and music was held at HCMC Opera House on January 18.

Attending the event was former Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh; Deputy Head of the Central Propaganda and Education Committee cum chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association, Editor-in-Chief of the Nhan Dan Newspaper Le Quoc Minh; former Vice Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee Nguyen Thi Thu Ha; Vice Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee Nguyen Ho Hai; head of the Propaganda and Education Board of the HCMC Party Committee Phan Nguyen Nhu Khue; Vice Chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee Duong Anh Duc; Vice chairman of Vietnam Journalists Association Tran Trong Dung; Director of the HCMC Department of Information and Communications Lam Dinh Thang; chairman of HCMC Journalists Association Nguyen Tan Phong.

The awards, launched and voted by Nguoi Lao Dong newspaper readers, recognize artists who made outstanding contributions to the nation's cultural and arts activities.

Accordingly, the reality show “2 ngay 1 dem”, known as “Two days, one Night” was honored with the “Most Favorite TV Program” title. The “Most Favorite TV Series” award was given to the movie titled Mat Troi Mua Dong (The Winter’s Sun) by director Tran Buu Loc.

Tang Duy Tan received the “Most Favorite Musician” title while the “Most Favorite MV” award went to the MV titled Thena by Phuc Anh and Ung Kien. Rapper Den Vau and Hoa Minzy won titles of Most Favorite Male and Female Singer. Vu Manh Cuong brought home the prize for “Most Favorite TV Host”.

“Most Favorite TV Actor” and “Most Favorite TV Actress” titles belonged to Nhan Phuc Vinh and Diep Bao Ngoc. Actor Huynh Lap took home the “Most Favorite Comic Actor” prize.

In the category of the stage, the “Most Favorite Dramatic Actor/Actress” awards went to Vo Minh Lam and Le Khanh.

Started in 1995, the Golden Apricot Blossom Award of the Nguoi Lao Dong Newspaper has been popular and become an annual prestigious event.

Youth’s Tet festival to return to HCMC

The HCMC’s annual Tet Viet (Vietnamese New Year) Festival 2024 themed “HCMC, the city I love” featuring images of a peaceful spring in the southern metropolis will return to young people on January 24.

The event will take place at the municipal Youth's Cultural House and run from January 24 until February 14 (the 14th day of the last month to the 5th day of the first month of the lunar calendar).

This year’s festival includes a wide range of activities such as a calligraphy street, a space of art installation and community activities, and volunteer work supporting disadvantaged people and underprivileged children.

Launched for the first time 17 years ago, the annual festival during Tet holidays has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors with many entertainment activities, such as kylin and dragon dance, music shows performances of hat boi (Vietnamese classic opera), and more.

At the festival, competent departments and organizations of the city will organize programs offering bus tickets to low-income workers and disadvantaged students to return to their hometowns for the Tet holiday and caring for students who cannot return to their hometowns to celebrate Tet.

Ly Hoang Nam wins first match at M25 Bhopal 2024 Tennis Tournament

In the first match of the ITF M25 Bhopal 2024 Tennis Tournament on January 17 in India, Vietnam's top-seeded tennis player, Ly Hoang Nam, secured a victory and advanced to the second round.

After reaching the quarterfinals in the ITF M25 Mandya 2024 Tennis Tournament last week, Ly Hoang Nam has extended his stay in India for the M25 Bhopal. Unlike the previous week, where he participated in both men's singles and doubles, the tennis player, hailing from Tay Ninh Province, decided to only compete in the men's singles category this week. This strategic decision aims to ensure his peak physical condition, enabling Hoang Nam to concentrate on his primary objective of improving his world ranking in men's singles.

Even though Ly Hoang Nam has not been updated three points from reaching the quarterfinals of the M25 Mandya tournament last week, he has still ascended by four notches in the global rankings, now sitting at 557. However, he was not seeded like in the previous tournament. Fortunately, the draw favored Hoang Nam, as he was set to face Israeli tennis player Offek Shimanov, currently ranked 862 in the world, who entered the tournament through the qualifying rounds.

Despite having a lower ranking and being just 18 years old, Ofek Shimanov posed a considerable challenge for Ly Hoang Nam in their score chase. In the opening game, where Shimanov served, Vietnam's top-seeded player promptly gained a break point, establishing an early advantage. In the 6th game, the Israeli player fought back, leveling the score to 3/3. Nevertheless, Hoang Nam secured another break, pulling ahead 4/3 and maintaining this advantage to clinch the set with a score of 6/4.

 Challenges await Hoang Nam in the second round as he faces the third seed.

In the second set, Hoang Nam encountered difficulties as Ofek Shimanov took a lead of 3/0. However, showcasing his resilience and experience, Hoang Nam effectively countered the aggressive playstyle of the 18-year-old player. He brilliantly achieved three break points, won six consecutive games, and ultimately staged a comeback to win the set with a score of 6/3.

With a convincing 2-0 victory (6/4, 6/3), Ly Hoang Nam advances to the second round, where he is scheduled to compete against the third seed, Vanshelboim from Ukraine, on January 18.

HCMC approves educational development strategy until 2030

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has recently approved the educational development strategy for the city from now until 2030, with a vision to 2045.

Accordingly, the objective for the city's educational progress until 2030, with a vision to 2045, is to construct a cutting-edge, contemporary, and globally integrated education system, becoming a distinguished hub for high-quality education and training in Vietnam and in Asia, ensuring a harmony between educational advancement and the quality of education.

Simultaneously, efforts will be directed towards building a learning-oriented society, fostering and facilitating fair conditions to encourage continuous education for all citizens and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of economic, cultural, and social development, as well as international integration. By 2030, the education and training sector in Ho Chi Minh City aims to reach an advanced level within the Asian region, and by 2045, it aspires to attain global recognition for its advanced standards.

Specifically, by 2025, the goal is to reduce at least 10 percent in the average number of public non-business units and a 10 percent decrease in the payroll positions funded by the State budget compared to the figures in 2021. The city will cease contracts that do not adhere to regulations within public non-business units, with the exception of units ensuring financial autonomy.

Over the period leading up to 2025, direct expenditures from the State budget to public non-business units will be cut by an average of 10 percent compared to the 2016-2020 period.

By 2030, the city strives to guarantee that 60 percent of public preschools, 80 percent of public primary schools, 70 percent of public middle schools, and 50 percent of public high schools fulfill the national standards for infrastructure and classrooms.

In each district and Thu Duc City, at least two schools at each educational level will implement the high-quality program.

Furthermore, the city plans to have at least ten high schools, including specialized ones, equipped with modern infrastructure and high-quality teaching facilities that meet the standards for high-quality educational institutions. All schools within the city are committed to adopting the smart school model, and there are initiatives to construct four new high-quality multi-level schools in Thu Duc City, Binh Chanh District, and Cu Chi District.

To elevate the education quality, the city targets 100 percent of primary and 70 percent of secondary schools to implement two teaching sessions per day and at least 80 percent of high schools in each district and Thu Duc City to adopt the two-teaching-session per day model.

Specifically, 80 percent of high school students can communicate fluently and approach learning in a foreign language, equivalent to level 3 of the foreign language competency framework. All high school graduates are required to obtain basic information technology skills, with 50 percent of students meeting international standards in computer literacy.

Each high school student is expected to be proficient in playing at least one art form or musical instrument and engage in regular practice in at least one sport.

Concerning the teaching workforce, the city is set to enact policies to attract skilled professionals and highly competent individuals to join public non-business units. The city aims to establish a professional, clean, dedicated, dynamic, and innovative team of officials and staff who possess a mindset for innovation and a strategic vision.

In detail, all preschool teachers are required to hold at least a college-level pedagogical degree, with over 85 percent possessing a bachelor's degree in preschool education. For primary, secondary, and high school teachers, a minimum of a bachelor's degree in education (or equivalent) is mandatory for 100 percent of educators, and 40 percent of high school teachers should have a master's degree in their specialized field.

In terms of computer proficiency and foreign language skills, the city is committed to providing training and skill enhancement for 100 percent of management officials, teachers, and staff, covering basic to advanced digital competencies. Moreover, 80 percent of teachers is expected to meet level 2 standards in digital competency, aligning with the objectives of digital transformation. Additionally, 60 percent of teachers will be adept at communication and have the ability to access learning materials in a foreign language, corresponding to level 3 of the foreign language competency framework.

As for the vision to 2045, 20 percent of public preschools is expected to ensure conditions for autonomy. Among them, 10 percent will implement the high-quality educational program, and 80 percent of public preschools are expected to meet national standards.

Simimarly, in the realm of vocational education, the city aims to meet the demand for a highly skilled workforce by 2045. It envisions becoming a leading region in vocational education within the country and the ASEAN region and keeping pace with the world's advanced standards, possessing outstanding competitive capabilities in some training fields and industries.

Ministry asks to tighten border gates to intercept Covid-19 spread

The Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health asked to tighten border gates to intercept Covid-19 spread.

According to WHO, health agencies in countries kept recording the Covid-19 new sub-variants including sub-variants such as XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, EG.5, BA.2.86, JN.1 that healthcare workers need to monitor these rates closely.

The Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health yesterday sent an official dispatch to the center for international health quarantine and disease control centers of provinces and cities with medical quarantine activities, requesting to increase medical quarantine work in border crossings.

The Ministry of Health stated that the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded the Covid-19 new sub-variants in early 2024 including the above-mentioned sub-variant lineages. Along with that, other dangerous and emerging epidemics are still recorded in many parts of the world. For instance, Nipah disease has been recorded in India, influenza A/H5N1 in Cambodia, H1N2 influenza in the UK, and MERS-CoV in the Middle East while respiratory diseases are increasing in some countries.

The Ministry of Health requires the above-mentioned responsible health units to regularly update information on infectious diseases in the world that are highly likely to enter the country for proactive adoption of monitoring and prevention measures immediately at border gates. Moreover, strict supervision at border gates is promptly carried out to handle suspected and intercept infected cases, especially during the Lunar New Year and festival season in Vietnam.

At the same time, related healthcare units should build and update procedures for implementing medical quarantine activities at each border gate according to the Ministry’s instructions in addition to updates of contingency plans to respond to epidemic situations at each border gate, including plans and scenarios for epidemic prevention during the Lunar New Year with the participation of border gate and local health authorities.

Binh Thuan, Tra Vinh urgently addressing local landslides

Binh Thuan Province and Tra Vinh Province yesterday both informed of various landslide sites due to recent natural disasters. 

Accordingly, the Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control of Binh Thuan Province shared that owing to the negative influences of the latest Northeast monsoon, big waves and strong wind along with high tides have repeatedly hit the shore, causing landslides in the two villages of Tien Hai and Tien Hoa in Tien Thanh Commune of Phan Thiet City. The estimated damage comes to VND300 million (US$12,200).

The People’s Committee of Phan Thiet City directed related functional agencies to temporarily cover the landslide sites with piles and sandbags. Local people are now being mobilized to help the task in order to set up temporary breakwaters. Residents are instructed with necessary measures to minimize damages to people and property. The local authorities are collecting information about these damages and providing necessary aid.

In the Mekong Delta province of Tra Vinh, the People’s Committee announced an emergency situation of landslides in the embankment stopping high tides near Con Nhan (in the two villages of Dong Thanh and Ho Thung of Dong Hai Commune in Duyen Hai District). These sites are 3km away from Duyen Hai Thermal Power Center and 60km Southeast of Tra Vinh City.

The sites are weak zones in geology, mainly consisting of sand dunes. As they directly face the East Sea, large waves and high tides regularly have a strong impact, causing various landslide incidents for many years.

The provincial People’s Committee has assigned the Agriculture and Rural Development Department of the province to work with the People’s Committee of Duyen Hai District to closely monitor and update the landslide status for timely handling. Necessary materials and human resources should always be available to address potential landslides in the future.

Insurance agency works hard to prevent social, health insurance profiteering

The insurance agency will work hard to prevent social, and health insurance profiteering by strengthening inspections.

Vietnam Social Insurance yesterday held a national online conference to deploy social insurance and health insurance in 2024 in Hanoi.

General Director of Vietnam Social Insurance Nguyen The Manh said that by the end of 2023, more than 18.26 million people participated in social insurance in 2023, reaching 39.25 percent of the working-age force and 14.7 million people buying unemployment insurance reaching nearly 31.6 percent.

In particular, there are over 93.3 million health insurance participants, reaching 93.35 percent of the population and the number of health insurance buyers is 0.15 percent higher than the Government's resolution.

Furthermore, in 2023, the country’s social insurance sector has given monthly pensions and social insurance benefits to nearly 95,700 retirees and social welfare brackets.

Additionally, over 8.8 million people enjoy sickness, maternity, and health recovery benefits and health charges of more than 174.8 million people with health insurance cards were covered by health insurance an increase of over 23.4 million compared to 2022. Total expenditure on social insurance, health insurance, and unemployment insurance funds is over VND439,270 billion (US$17.8 billion).

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai requested the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Health to study the present regulations and later, report and submit to the Government soon to seek synchronous amendments and supplements of the Law on Social Insurance, the Law on Health Insurance, and the Law on Health Insurance approved by the National Assembly. Employment and related laws are in accordance with the spirit of the Central resolutions on social insurance, health insurance, and unemployment insurance policies.

The Deputy Prime Minister also requested relevant ministries and agencies to soon complete the national database on population, medical examination, treatment, and labor to connect and share with the social insurance agency, creating favorable conditions for people and businesses’ electronic transactions as well as enhance accuracy, publicity, transparency, limit abuse and profiteering of social insurance and unemployment insurance funds.

The Deputy Prime Minister also requested the Vietnam Social Security to manage funds to ensure compliance with regulations while synchronously carrying out solutions to have more insurance participants. The Vietnam Social Security was asked to collect and reduce late payment fees but fully resolve and pay social insurance, health insurance, and unemployment insurance benefits while paying more unscheduled visits to businesses for promptly handling violations.

Site clearance identified as critical step in completing urban railway projects

Site clearance is a critical step in completing construction projects of urban metro lines on time and transit-oriented development (TOD) areas.

Experts and management agencies made the statement at the second working session of the scientific conference titled "Development of urban metro line systems in Hanoi and HCMC" which was co-organized by the People's Committees of Hanoi and the southern metropolis in the capital city on January 17-19.

Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Hanoi City Nguyen Trong Dong said that site clearance and land revocation are crucial prerequisites and fundamental tasks to implement urban metro line projects. They are also key steps to complete the project on schedule and enhance the investment project's effectiveness.

Representatives of management agencies of Hanoi and HCMC shared experiences in implementing site clearance works for the Ring Road 4 project in Hanoi and the significance of the development of Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien) in HCMC related to requirements of the development of underground construction in cities.

Experts also shared experiences in land acquisition and site clearance of countries with the strong development of urban railway systems, such as China and Singapore; solutions for solving mechanisms for land transfer for urban upgrade based on public transport systems; mechanisms of planning, compensation, and site clearance of the urban railway development projects.

In addition, international experts also proposed innovative financing mechanisms for urban railway projects, recommendations on strategies for mobilizing land resources, and solutions to attract private investors to participate in TOD project development.

The results of the Conference will be the basis for the two cities to propose specific mechanisms and policies that are suitable to practical conditions and feasible in the field of reconstruction and urban development in general and the development of the urban railway system in particular.

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