The remains of 88 local soldiers who sacrificed their lives during previous conflicts in both Cambodia and Vietnam were finally laid to rest on July 24 at the Doc Ba Dac Martyrs' Cemetery in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang.

Of the total, 80 sets of remains were discovered in Cambodia’s Kampong Speu, Takeo, Kandal, and Kongpong Chnang provinces. The rest were found in locations in Tri Ton and Tinh Bien districts of An Giang province.

The remains were collected and returned to the country during the 2023 to 2024 dry season by the search team K93 of the An Giang Military Command and search team K90 of Military Zone 9.

Among the sets of remains gathered in Vietnam, four were identified.

The Doc Ba Dac Martyrs' Cemetery has so far gathered together 9,009 graves of soldiers from North, Central, and South Vietnam who sacrificed themselves during historical wars.

Laos declares national mourning for Vietnam's Party leader

Laos is scheduled to observe a national mourning for General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong on July 25 and 26, Minister and head of the Lao Prime Minister's Office Bouakhong Nammavong announced at a press conference in Vientiane on July 22.

The Vietnamese leader passed away in Hanoi on July 19. He was 80.

The announcement states that the Party General Secretary made significant contributions to the unceasing development of the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the Parties, States, and peoples of the two countries. His passing is a loss of a close and trusted friend to the Party, State, and people of Laos. Therefore, the Lao Party and Government decided to observe state mourning in Laos and at the countries' embassies and diplomatic missions abroad on July 25 - 26 by flying flags at half-mast and suspending all forms of entertainment activities.

According to the announcement, the Lao Government has entrusted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee’s Office, Commission for External Relations, and relevant agencies to prepare for a high-ranking delegation of the Lao Party and State led by the General Secretary of the LPRP Central Committee and President of Laos to attend the funeral for the deceased in Hanoi.

The bodies will coordinate with the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos to prepare for delegations to come to pay respect, write in the funeral book, and lay wreaths at the Vietnamese Embassy in Vientiane. They were also assigned to coordinate with relevant agencies to inform the embassies and diplomatic missions of Laos abroad to pay homage to the late leader at Vietnam's representative bodies in the host countries. 

The announcement particularly notes that during the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related meetings in Laos from July 21 to 27, the country's Foreign Ministry needs to ensure appropriate arrangements and give notifications to all participating delegations, especially regarding the organisation of banquets and festivals.

Lao ministries, agencies, and organisations from central to local levels as well as the Laos - Vietnam Friendship Association are to extend condolences to their Vietnamese partners and send delegations to attend the respect-paying ceremonies to be held at the Vietnamese Embassy and consulates general in localities. Meanwhile, the Lao provinces that share twinning relations with Vietnamese localities are to offer condolences to their partners.

In Vietnam, a two-day national mourning for Party General Secretary Trong will also be observed on July 25 - 26./.

Overseas Vietnamese intellectuals show grief at Party leader’s passing

Vietnamese intellectuals and people living and working in many countries have expressed their grief at the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong - an excellent leader, and a shining example of integrity, approachability, and dedication to serving the people.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Professor Nghiem Duc Long, Director of the Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and President of the Vietnam-Australia Scholars & Experts Association (VASEA), stated that General Secretary Trong has left an imprint in the hearts of the Vietnamese people and country as a leader who always gave his all for the nation and its people.

According to Long, the General Secretary was a simple but scholarly persuasive leader, with his words down-to-earth and memorable, yet also profound and insightful. He was resolute but also compassionate, always showing special concern for children and young people, caring for them, encouraging them, and instilling confidence in them as the future owners of the country.

For the late leader, fighting corruption, pursuing "bamboo diplomacy", and promoting innovation were the three pillars for building a prosperous Vietnam, Long assessed, adding that one of the most significant legacies Trong left behind is the anti-corruption campaign characterised by “no off-limits zones, no exceptions”, aiming to ensure social justice and drive economic development. All these efforts have been clearly reflected in the country's progress and the lives of the Vietnamese people in recent years.

As a person who values knowledge, General Secretary Trong also paid due attention to the thoughts and aspirations of Vietnamese intellectuals and experts at home and abroad, said the professor.

Meanwhile, Le Thi Bich Huong, General Secretary of the union of presidents of Vietnamese people's associations in Italy and President of the Italy-Vietnam Cultural Bridge Association, emphasised that General Secretary Trong was an exemplary figure of simplicity in life, courage, and strength in Party rectification, and a person of integrity and impartiality.

In Switzerland, many overseas Vietnamese agreed that over the past years, thanks to the engagement of the political system, and with the close, exemplary, thoughtful and visionary guidance of the Party General Secretary, the fight against corruption and other negative phenomena in Vietnam has made strong progress.

IT Dr. Luu Vinh Toan, working for Move Digital AG in Zurich city, said that Trong made great contributions, helping to raise Vietnam's position and reputation in the international arena, including promoting anti-corruption efforts. The fight against corruption has created confidence in the people, further demonstrating the determination to clean up the country and the Party.

Sharing the same view, Pham Quy Ly, Business Development Manager of JANZZ technology company, expressed her hope that the "torch" in the fight against corruption of General Secretary Trong will continue to be lit to affirm the Party's leadership in the socio-economic development process in Vietnam.

Le Hoai Nam, head of the liaison board of the Vietnamese community in South Africa, said that upon hearing the General Secretary's passing, the Vietnamese community was deeply moved and filled with sorrow.

According to Nam, the late leader was seen as a shining example for consistently promoting integrity and impartiality, and a humble lifestyle and work ethic. He personally led the anti-corruption campaign that earned him immense respect from the people.

Venerable Dr. Thich Duc Tuan, President of the Vietnamese Buddhist Association in the America, head of Phap Vuong Pagoda in Olivehurst city, California, assessed that the General Secretary also made positive contributions to elevating Vietnam-US relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, beneficial for the development of both nations, especially for Vietnamese people living and working in the US. The leader also played a significant role in promoting solidarity among nations and building a peace-oriented international environment, the monk said./.

Vietnamese Party chief makes life-long dedication to nation: Chinese scholars

The passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong is a huge loss to not only the Party, State and people of Vietnam but also international friends, including Chinese scholars who have spent years studying Vietnam.

Li Minghan, a Hong Kong-based scholar on Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh, said that he is extremely saddened by the passing of the communist, who is one of respectable Vietnamese leaders.

Observing and studying Vietnam's development for more than a decade, Li realised that General Secretary Trong had good and noble virtues of a leader like President Ho Chi Minh. Under his leadership, the country has achieved outstanding progress in politics, economy, defence and security, and secured increasing prosperity and happiness for its people.

Li said that Vietnam's achievements have had a profound impact on all socialist countries in the world, especially its anti-corruption results in recent years. General Secretary Trong looked small and simple but he was so strong-willed to order the stringent settlement of corrupt officials strictly, even those holding high positions in the Party and State leadership.

The leader also left extremely good impression of his integrity and simplicity during his whole life devoted to the Party, the nation and the people.

Noting the General Secretary used only an old car for about 20 years working in various positions, including three terms as the leader of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Li shared that to effectively fight against corruption and negative phenomena, leaders themselves must set good examples first.

Li, who is 80 years old, said that both he and his wife used to learn Vietnamese at Beijing Foreign Studies University. His father-in-law had the honour to prepare a meal for President Ho Chi Minh when he worked at the Chinese Embassy in Hanoi. That inspired his interest in studying Vietnam in general and President Ho Chi Minh in particular.

The scholar found that General Secretary Trong learned and applied much of the style, virtues and ethics of President Ho Chi Minh, especially the loyalty and dedication to the Party, the State and the people of Vietnam.

Mourning the Vietnamese Party chief, Li was so moved that he made a poem to share with his Vietnamese friends and people in Hong Kong. He held that the General Secretary deserves to be one of President Ho Chi Minh's excellent disciples.

Regarding Vietnam-China relations, Li said that one of the bilateral ties' highlights under Trong's leadership is an appropriate and effective foreign policy in harmonising Vietnam's relations with major countries, as well as strengthening and developing connections with socialist countries and communist parties. Vietnam has not only stabilised relations with the US and Russia, but also promoted relations with China to a new level.

Meanwhile, Wang Feng who is a former reporter of the Xinhua News Agency, said that she felt down to hear about Trong’s passing. The leader dedicated his entire life to the development of Vietnam as well as the friendship in all fields between the two countries.

Wang shared that she met Trong once and felt that he was very friendly, smart and flexible. There are not many leaders like him.

Researching many works by the General Secretary, she perceived that Trong was a person with a deep theoretical foundation, in terms of both politics and economics. He applied Marxism-Leninism into practice, made great contributions to anti-corruption efforts and economic and cultural development in Vietnam, and promoted the two countries' exchanges and cooperation.

Under Trong’s leadership, the China - Vietnam relationship has achieved many highly positive results in various fields, especially people-to-people exchanges, Wang added./.

Leaders of foreign left-wing parties admire Vietnamese Party chief’s strategic vision

Upon hearing of Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong's passing, leaders of communist and left-wing parties in many countries have expressed profound condolences and highlighted his wisdom, strategic vision, and contributions to the country's development.

Talking to the Vietnam News Agency in New Delhi, General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) Doraisamy Raja affirmed that this is a great loss to not only the Vietnamese people and the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) but also the entire international community.

Raja called the deceased a great leader, thinker, and organisation builder not only of the CPV but also in the work of building a socialist system in Vietnam.

He held that Trong was a great thinker who initiated many reforms in both the Party and the government, especially in the anti-corruption movement, and played a huge role in inspiring and arousing the spirit of solidarity among the people, encouraging them to join hands in building socialism.

Raja also emphasised the role of the late leader in building and consolidating socialism in accordance with conditions in Vietnam, affirming that it was a great theoretical and intellectual contribution, with a unique impact on the theory development of Marxism-Leninism.

The CPI leader went on to say that with a deep understanding of world politics and a realistic stance, Party General Secretary Trong helped Vietnam maintain good relationships with major countries, as well as those in the Southern Hemisphere.

Emphasising that India and Vietnam are comprehensive strategic partners, Raja evaluated it as one of the best relationships in the world, affirming this has contributed to promoting peace and common prosperity for the benefits of the people in the region.

Meanwhile, Secretary-General of the Egyptian Socialist Party Ahmed Bahaa El-Din Shaaban described Party General Secretary Trong as an outstanding leader, a skilled captain who steered the ship of the nation through all storms as well as economic and political challenges with a strategic vision. Trong's lifelong dedication to justice will remain forever in the hearts of the Vietnamese people and peoples around the world, he stressed.

Speaking to the Vietnam News Agency in Cairo, Shaaban highlighted and expressed admiration for Trong’s significant contributions and achievements in the Party building and rectification, as well as in the national building, safeguarding, and development. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam headed by Trong, Vietnam has achieved remarkable feats in economic and foreign affairs, and security, peace, and stability have been increasingly maintained, Shaaban assessed.

In addition, Vietnam has built and developed a modern foreign policy deeply rooted in national identity, following the "bamboo diplomacy" approach, Shaaban said, adding that Vietnam's foreign policy relies on the harmonious combination of principles and decisiveness, flexibility and determination, and closely aligned with the goal of safeguarding national interests based on international law.

In economic terms, the head of the Egyptian Socialist Party assessed that after nearly 40 years of ‘Doi moi’ (Renewal) and many years of developing a socialist-oriented market economy, Vietnam has achieved significant accomplishments thanks to the strategic vision of its leaders, including Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. Shaaban expressed his admiration for Vietnam's robust economic development, with optimistic growth forecasts for 2024 and 2025, believing these outstanding economic results have directly impacted the country's socio-political, and diplomatic landscapes, and affirmed Trong’s positive and effective leadership role in Vietnam's reform, development, and economic integration processes./.

RoK author releases book to honour Party General Secretary's life

In honour of the 80th birth anniversary of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, writer Cho Chul-hyeon and Jammy Holdings Co., Ltd of the Republic of Korea (RoK) have released a book chronicling the leader's life.

Titled "General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong," the book is published in Korean in the RoK.

In a move to bring this tribute to Vietnamese readers, the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) and Jammy Holdings Co., Ltd. signed a contract on July 22 to publish, print, and distribute the book in both Vietnamese and Korean in Vietnam.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, VNA Deputy General Director Nguyen Thi Su said upon hearing the passing of the Party General Secretary on July 19, the VNA immediately set up a special information page and has continuously posted articles, interviews, and vivid images about his life and career on its channels, platforms and publications.

Leaders, experts, scholars, dignitaries and ordinary citizens both at home and abroad are also expressing their respect and sorrow for a distinguished, esteemed Vietnamese leader and a sincere, trusted friend of various nations, she said.

She expressed her belief that the collaboration with Jammy Holdings would ensure the book's highest quality translation and publication, conveying the sentiments and perspectives of the Korean author - a cherished friend of Vietnam - about the highest leader of Vietnam and the historical and social context of the country through different periods.

The publication of the book is also expected to further strengthen the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the RoK, she said.

Joo Jeongsu, Executive Director of Jammy Holdings Co., Ltd., also extended his deepest condolences to the Vietnamese Party, State and people over their profound loss.

The 420-page book, measuring 16x24 cm, provides a vivid portrayal of the Party General Secretary's early years, his diligent academic journey and exceptional achievements from primary, secondary, and high schools to the Linguistics Faculty of the Hanoi General University. It also details his work at the Communist Review, his insightful theory and criticism articles, and achievements during his tenure as Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee (2000-2006), Chairman of the National Assembly (2006-2011), and his role as the highest leader of Vietnam during the 11th, 12th and 13th National Party Congresses.

Readers will also gain insights into his resolute efforts to combat corruption and his consistent implementation of the "bamboo diplomacy" policy in building and protecting the Socialist Republic of Vietnam./.

Scholars impressed by Party General Secretary’s style, vision

Simplicity, humility, and strategic vision are impressions of scholars in Singapore of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong through their meetings with the late leader.

Trong paid an official visit to Singapore in September 2012, during which he delivered a speech themed “For a Southeast Asia of peace, stability, cooperation and development” at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy which received high evaluation.

Associate Prof. Dr. Vu Minh Khuong, a Vietnamese lecturer at the school, said he was extremely impressed by humility and profoundness of the Party chief who delivered a speech affirming that Vietnam always treasures relations with Singapore and hopes to learn Singapore’s experience along the path to prosperity.

The lecturer said that he still remembers the impressive answers by the Party chief to participants’ questions following the speech. A painting that General Secretary Trong presented to the school is being hung in a solemn place, right next to the Principal's room, he said.

Khuong, who met the Party chief many times, said that he will never forget the eyes of General Secretary Trong when he proposed that Vietnam must set goals for 2030 – a year that marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam - and 2045 - the centenary of independent Vietnam, to become a developed country on par with other countries of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

“I saw his eyes, those of a comrade, of a family member, and of a very responsible leader," stated Khuong, adding that they made the scholar confident in the great legacy that the Party chief left for the current generation of leaders and his vision to bring Vietnam to prosperity in the next decades.

Kishore Mahbubani, a former official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore who served as the Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy then and currently an honorary scholar at the Asian Research Institute of the National University of Singapore (NUS), recalled the chance he listened to the Vietnamese Party chief’s speech and had his questioned answered by the leader, saying that he was greatly impressed by the confidence of General Secretary Trong when he answered questions at the event.

Mahbubani said he believes that this was the reason why General Secretary Trong was “one of the most successful leaders of Vietnam.”

Vietnam’s achievements in economic development in the past 20-30 years are extremely special to any standards. In some aspects, meeting the leader responsible for Vietnam's remarkable development was a wonderful experience for the school. “We are extremely honoured to welcome him,” he stated.

Showing his impression at Vietnam’s success under the leadership of General Secretary Trong, Mahbubani commented that the strongest imprint of the late leader was his careful thinking about how Vietnam can succeed in economic development.

In many ways, one of the wisest decisions that Vietnam made at the end of the Cold War was to switch to economic development and seek partners to cooperate with, and one of Vietnam’s choice was Singapore, he noted.

The former Singaporean Foreign Affairs official underlined that there are many reasons why General Secretary Trong was one of Vietnam's most successful leaders.

He emphasised that not every country with resources is as developed as Vietnam, clarifying that Vietnam’s success under Trong’s leadership has shown that the country has talented leaders who made wise decisions to promote economic development and bring about more prosperous life.

Mahbubani also highly evaluated Vietnam’s external policy under General Secretary Trong’s leadership and Vietnam’s ability to navigate the increasingly complex international and regional geopolitical environment.

The scholar, who has researched geopolitics for more than 50 years, held that there are only a few countries in the world that have a wise geopolitical strategy, and Vietnam is one of them.

He said he believes that although General Secretary Trong has passed away, other leaders of Vietnam will ensure that legacies and efforts of the Party leader continue, heading to a good governance, shaping correct economic policies and eliminating corruption./.

Overseas Vietnamese in Thailand remember General Secretary’s visit

Overseas Vietnamese in Thailand’s Nakhon Phanom province always remember the visit by General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong in 2013, said Tran Van Sau, Vice President of the Association of Vietnamese in Thailand said.

Sau, who is also President of Overseas Vietnamese Association in Nakhon Phanom, said that they were very excited to welcome the Party chief to the Thailand-Vietnam Friendship Village in May village, Nong Yat commune, Mueang district, Nakhon Phanom on the occasion of his official visit to Thailand from June 25-27, 2013.

It was the second visit by a Vietnamese Party General Secretary to Thailand after the first one by General Secretary Do Muoi in 1993.

Sau recalled that not only overseas Vietnamese in the province but also many people from neighbouring provinces flocked to the village and waited for General Secretary Trong.

All of them were moved and proud to welcome the General Secretary who is the first Vietnamese top leader to visit the province since Thailand and Vietnam established diplomatic relations in 1976, Sau said, emphasising that they felt the care and sentiments of the Party and the State to the overseas Vietnamese there.

Sau remembered that during the meeting with overseas Vietnamese, General Secretary Trong handed over to the association 30 billion VND raised in Vietnam to build a memorial site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in May village.

The construction of the site started on March 28, 2014. It was inaugurated on May 19, 2016, coinciding with President Ho Chi Minh’s 126th birthday.

 The memorial site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in May village in Nakhon Phanom province. (Photo: VNA)
 
Since then, the site has attracted a lot of visitors, not only overseas Vietnamese but also Thai people. It is one of the three memorial sites dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in Thailand.

Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on February 17 visited the memorial site Nakhon Phanom, affirming its historical significance and role as a bridge to connect and strengthening the Thailand - Vietnam friendship.

After his visit, the Thai Government approved a budget of 10 million THB (275,000 USD) for maintaining the site.

Sau said that Thai-Vietnamese people in Thailand in general and Nakhon Phanom in particular are always grateful to the Party, the Government and people of Vietnam for their support./.

Nguyen Phu Trong helps improve CPV’s position: Lao official

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong has contributed to raising the position of the CPV which is recognised by major powers as the political party to lead the nation’s socialist-oriented development, according to a Lao official.

The head of the External Relations Commission of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, Thongsavanh Phomvihane told the Vietnam News Agency that since his election as General Secretary of the CPV at the 11th National Party Congress, the Vietnamese leader wholeheartedly devoted to the Party's cause, notably Party building work and improvement of the Party’s capacity and role in leading the nation's development along the path to socialism.

The Vietnamese Party leader has pointed out that Party building and rectification must include the prevention and control of corruption and negative phenomena, which, the Lao official said, are knotty issues in many countries, adding the Vietnamese Party chief attached much importance to the work that has been carried out without exceptions.

Under General Secretary Trong’s leadership for more than a decade, Vietnam carved out robust development with various targets fulfilled, and income per capita gross domestic product (GDP) has constantly increased, rising to 3,000 USD in 2021 and nearly 4,000 USD nowadays, Phomvihane said, stressing Vietnam’s exponential growth even during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country has been a favourite destination for foreign investments and has growing trade ties with foreign partners.

He also noted that Vietnam upgraded its relations with many countries to the strategic partnership level, especially powerful countries, demonstrating the nation’s increasing position in the world. He also attributed the success to the CPV’s “bamboo diplomacy”.

Regarding the Vietnam – Laos ties, he said the bilateral relations were built upon the sweat and blood of leaders and people of both nations during their struggles for national independence, describing this as a basis to develop the special relations between the two parties, states and peoples.

He went on to say that the Vietnamese Party chief had a high regard for the enhancement of the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two sides, reflected through the regular exchanges of delegations at all levels and various cooperation mechanisms.

To date, the bilateral ties have been developed to a new high with deep mutual understanding, he said, adding the relations were set up by President Ho Chi Minh and Presidents Kaysone Phomevihane and Souphanouvong, and have been nurtured by generations of leaders of both sides, including Party General Secretary Trong.

The Lao official said the late leader was a close comrade who left lasting impressions on him, expressing his gratitude towards the support of the Vietnamese Party, State and people for the Lao revolution during the past struggle to save the nation, and current national protection and development cause, with important contributions by Party General Secretary Trong./.

Vietnamese Deputy FM attends ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting in Laos

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet, who is also head of the ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) delegation of Vietnam, attended the SOM in Laos on July 23 to review and complete preparations for the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM-57) and related meetings.

At the event, SOM leaders extended their deep condolences to the Vietnamese Government and people over the passing of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong on July 19.

Viet thanked the diplomats for their sharing and sympathies with Vietnam in this moment of grief.

Participants spoke highly of the meticulous and comprehensive preparations for the AMM-57 and related meetings by Laos, which holds the ASEAN Chairmanship this year. They affirmed support for and close coordination with the host country to contribute to the success of the meetings in the spirit of solidarity and cooperation.

The same day, Viet and other SOM officials attended a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ EXCOM), discussing the implementation of the plan of action of the SEANWFZ Treaty for the 2023-2027 period as well as measures to improve cooperation efficiency in the coming time.

Themed “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”, the foreign ministers of ASEAN countries and partners are set to discuss the implementation of the bloc’s priorities in 2024, the ASEAN Community building progress, and orientation for cooperation between ASEAN and partners.

Besides, they will exchange views on the regional and international situation, and adopt important documents serving as a foundation for cooperation within ASEAN and between the bloc with its partners in the coming time.

The AMM-57 and related meetings will take place in Vientiane from July 24 to 27 with about 20 activities within the frameworks of ASEAN, ASEAN 1, ASEAN 3, East Asia Summit (EAS) and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises 10 member countries, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam./.

Vietnam honoured for GIS excellence at global conference

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s Department of Survey, Mapping and Geographic Information Vietnam has earned international recognition for its work in Geographic Information System (GIS).

The department was honoured with the prestigious “Special Achievement in GIS” award at the 2024 Esri User Conference held in the US.

Esri, a leading provider of GIS software, acknowledged the department’s successful use of ArcGIS technology to build and update Vietnam’s national geographic database and create detailed topographic maps. These essential tools have been instrumental in supporting government planning and operations at all levels.

In addition to leveraging technology, the department has prioritised human capital development through an extensive e-learning programme. Over 1,000 individuals have completed training on GIS software and are continuing with advanced courses.

The department’s commitment to advancing GIS is aligned with Vietnam’s broader digital transformation goals. A government-approved strategy for the surveying and mapping sector outlines a vision for utilising cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence and big data analytics to build a national geospatial data infrastructure.

The annual Esri User Conference brought together GIS professionals from around the world to share knowledge and best practices. It attracts tens of thousands of participants from over 130 countries each year./.

Anti-terrorism trends updated at HCM City training course

A training course on Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear and Explosive Commodities (CBRNE) Identification is being held in Ho Chi Minh City on July 22-25.

The event is jointly held by the national coordinating agency for the prevention and control of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) (Agency 81) under the Ministry of National Defence, the Department of Domestic Security under the Ministry of Public Security, and the Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Programme under the US Department of State.

The hybrid training course draws the participation of over 30 representatives from competent agencies on the prevention and combat of the proliferation of the WMD in the south, the Ministries of Public Security, Science and Technology, Industry and Trade, and Health, as well as chemical, biological, radiological nuclear and explosive experts of the EXBS programme.

It aims at improving their enforcement capacity, while contributing to promoting the country’s implementation of the UN Security Council’s resolutions and international treaties on the prevention of the WMD.

The participants are updated with new trends in the anti-terrorism activities through CBRNE, thus raising their awareness of the WMD combat./.

Revolution contributors honoured ahead of War Invalids, Martyrs' Day

A ceremony honouring revolution contributors was held in Hanoi on July 23 in the lead-up to the 77th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs’ Day (July 27), in the presence of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Co-organised by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs; the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of Public Security, Nhan dan (People) newspaper and the municipal People’s Committee, the event gathered 400 veterans and families of fallen heroes.

Prior to the event, Chinh and delegates observed a minute of silence in memory of those who fought for the country.

In his address, the leader affirmed that this is an occasion for the entire Party, people and army to express their gratitude for the immense contributions of martys, war invalids, and those who rendered service to the revolution.

PM Chinh highlighted the sacrifices of millions of Vietnamese who transformed the nation from a war-torn country to a middle-income developing economy with global influence. Vietnam now ranks among the 40 largest economies and the top 20 nations with the largest trade volumes globally. From a country under siege and embargo, Vietnam has by now established diplomatic relations with 193 countries and expanded economic and trade ties with 230 countries and territories, serving as a model for reconciliation and post-war recovery.

The Vietnamese Party and State have issued various policies and guidelines to offer concrete, practical, and effective support to war invalids, sick soldiers, relatives of martyrs, and others who rendered service to the revolution, considering this a key and regular political task, he said.

As of now, 99% of the families of revolution contributors have living standards equal to or above the local average, while 99% of communes and wards effectively manage affairs related to war invalids and martyrs.

The country has to date recorded 9.2 million revolution contributors and their relatives.

Since 2013, nearly 7.9 trillion VND (329.1 million USD) has been raised to support families of revolution contributors. Over 12.7 trillion VND has been allocated for the construction of 67,700 new homes and the repair of nearly 45,900 others. More than 110,000 saving books worth over 403 billion VND have been presented to policy beneficiary families. Support has also been extended to those in extreme difficulty, with 2,412 living heroic Vietnamese mothers receiving lifelong care from various organisations.

Efforts to identify martyrs' remains have also been significant. Nearly 10,000 samples of martyrs' remains and over 3,000 biological samples from martyrs' relatives have been analysed through DNA testing, resulting in the successful identification of more than 1,000 martyrs.

On the occasion, a DNA bank for unidentified martyrs and their relatives debuted.

PM Chinh and other Party and State leaders presented gifts to veterans and awarded DNA certificates to representatives of 10 martyr families, including four families who, after decades of waiting, were finally able to reconnect with their lost relatives./.

Vietnam joins efforts to promote preservation of world heritage values

Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO Ha Kim Ngoc is attending the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO in New Delhi from July 21 – 31.

This is the first session Vietnam has participated in as a member of the committee for the 2023-2027 term.

In his opening speech at the plenary session on July 22, the official said that as the Vietnamese people are mourning the passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Vietnam wishes to emphasise the significant thoughts of the Party leader on the role of culture as the spiritual foundation of society, serving both as a goal and an intrinsic strength and important motivation for national development.

Vietnam always prioritises the effective implementation of the World Heritage Convention, paying attention to conserving and promoting the value of eight world heritage sites in the country, cooperating effectively with the World Heritage Centre and advisory bodies, and integrating the content of the Convention into its legal system and socio-economic development policies, Ngoc stated.

He committed to contributing to the World Heritage Fund, urged UNESCO and its member countries to continue strengthening international cooperation, effectively implementing the Convention, sharing experiences, enhancing capacity, and promoting the participation and contributions of the community, women, and youth.

On behalf of the more than 2,000 delegates from over 150 countries, Chairperson of the World Heritage Committee Vishal V. Sharma highly valued the message from the Vietnamese official, extending his deepest condolences to leaders and people of Vietnam, and the bereaved family on their great loss.

Earlier, on July 21 morning, the Vietnamese official had a meeting with Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, during which Ngoc thanked the centre and its director personally for positive and effective support for Vietnam.

He emphasised that the world heritage sites in Vietnam have been making positive contributions to improving the lives of the host communities, as well as to the sustainable socio-economic development of the country in general.

For his part, Assomo thanked Vietnam for its contributions, stressing that the country is a model for heritage conservation and promotion. He said he hopes that Vietnam will share its experience with other UNESCO member countries.

The World Heritage Centre always accompanies and fully supports Vietnam in the conservation and promotion of its world heritage sites, and commits to reviewing and supporting Vietnam's future world heritage nomination dossiers within the scope of its functions, he affirmed.

The committee is one of the most important executive bodies of UNESCO, comprising 21 members with the authority to make key decisions regarding the recognition of cultural and natural world heritage sites; review and assess the conservation status of world heritage sites globally; and determine policies, budgets, and development orientations for the World Heritage Convention.

During the 11-day session, delegates will review 27 new heritage nomination dossiers and 124 others on the conservation and promotion of heritage values./.

Vice State President pays tribute to martyrs in Con Dao

Vice State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and a working delegation on July 23 laid wreaths and offered incense to fallen heroes at Hoang Duong cemetery, on the occation of the 77th War Invalids and Martyrs Day (July 27, 1947-2024).

They also presented gifts to policy beneficiaries, individuals with meritorious services, and former political prisoners residing in Con Dao district, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province.

In an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence, they observed a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs, expressing heartfelt gratitude to their immense contributions to national liberation and reunification and pledging to steadfastly protect the nation’s independence and strive toward a prosperous, strong, democratic, equitable, and civilised country.

Following the ceremony, they offered incense at graves in Hang Duong cemetery, and visited and presented gifts to 76 policy beneficiaries, individuals with meritorious services, and former political prisoners./.

VNA attends second Shusha Global Media Forum in Azerbaijan

A delegation of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) led by Deputy General Director Doan Thi Tuyet Nhung attended the second Shusha Global Media Forum in Shusha city, Azerbaijan, on July 20-22.

Themed “Unmasking False Narratives: Confronting Disinformation,” the forum attracted the participation of over 150 delegates from around 50 countries, including news agencies of 30 countries, three international organisations, 82 global and regional media entities.

The forum consisted of four panel sessions on “Impact assessment: scoping disinformation,” “Policies and initiatives to build a more resilient society against disinformation,” The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on reality, media and disinformation: Promoting media literacy,” and “Climate movement and media” Speaking at the opening session, Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, stressed the need for the international community to enhance its responsibility in verifying information and disseminating accurate news to prevent disinformation.

Highlighting the challenges faced by global media in light of the rapid development of AI, Hikmet Hajiyev stressed that news agencies must collaborate more closely with the United Nations and other global organisations, adding that sharing accurate information is crucial.

In the discussions, representatives from news agencies, media entities, and international organisations, and experts exchanged viewpoints and shared experience on identifying disinformation and unverified information, as well as solutions to enhance global awareness of combating disinformation, and improve the effectiveness of the fight against fake news.

On the sidelines of the forum, VNA Deputy General Director Nhung had a meeting with Chairman of the Board of Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC) Vugar Aliyev.

The two sides emphasised the importance of news agencies enhancing collaboration and sharing experience in the fight against fake news, disinformation, and unverified information; and in the application of AI in the production and dissemination of information, as well as effective management strategies to mitigate risks from using AI to create and spread false information.

They also stressed the need for VNA and AZERTAC to further promote collaboration in the context of rapid digital transformation of global media, and increase the exchange of new multimedia products to improve the effectiveness of promoting the images of their respective country’s land, people and culture as well as the potential and opportunities for bilateral cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, investment and cultural exchange; and at the same time step up the exchange of reporters and technical staff to share experience in producing new types of information.

Noting that the effective cooperation between AZERTAC and VNA will make an important contribution to further deepening the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, they agreed to soon renew a collaboration agreement between the two news agencies.

On this occasion, Nhung also held meetings with representatives of several news agencies that are partners of the Vietnam News Agency to discuss measures to effectively implement signed agreements and promote the signing of new ones./.

Bilingual book honours national treasures

The Su That (Truth) National Political Publishing House in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has published a Vietnamese-English book titled “Thousand Years of Vietnam National Civilisation” featuring national treasures. As of January 18, 2024, Vietnam had counted 294 artifacts and groups of objects recognised as national treasures, through 12 approval rounds since 2012.

These national treasures hold special values as they represent the country's history, culture, and science. They are being preserved in provinces and cities across the country with specific methods, depending on their materials and ages. The recognition of the national treasures is carried out following a strict process.

To win the recognition, an artfact must satisfy criteria regarding origin, uniqueness, and values in terms of history, culture, and science, and be evidence of a major event or closely linked to the life and career of a national hero or an outstanding figure. It would be a famous work of art with ideological, humanistic, and aesthetic values, representing a specific trend, style, or era; and a typical invention or creation with high practical values that can promote social development during a certain historical period. Over the recent times, attention has been paid to introducing and promoting such treasures through various forms, from organising exhibitions both in and outside the country to introducing them through websites, social media, digital platforms; and publishing thematic stamp collections.

The publication of the bilingual book aims to help the public gain an insight into all the national treasures, thus contributing to honouring them and promoting their values.

The book will guide readers on a chronological journey through the national treasures, starting from the period BC to the revolutionary war, marked by the great turning point of the 1975 Spring General Offensive and Uprising. The book shows images of the treasures and relevant information most concisely, yet enough for readers to gain a basic and comprehensive understanding of their origins, eras, characteristics, and unique, exemplary values./.

Heartbeat Vietnam saves 11,000 children with CHD

Doan Ngoc Anh Thu, a 12-year-old girl from the Mekong Delta province of Tra Vinh, became the 11,000th child to be saved by Heartbeat Vietnam, a programme designed to save children born with heart problems.

Thu exhibited cyanosis and experienced frequent fevers when she was just one month old. She was diagnosed with "tetralogy of fallot," a complex congenital heart defect requiring surgery.

With help from the VinaCapital Foundation's (VCF) Heartbeat Vietnam programme, Thu underwent her first surgery at the age of two, which significantly improved her health and allowed her to attend school and excel academically for the past six years.

Her second successful surgery marked a significant milestone in her courageous journey with the support from the Association for the Protection of People with Disabilities and Victims of Agent Orange/dioxin, Heartbeat Vietnam and other donors.

A total of 11,000 Vietnamese children with congenital heart defects (CHD) have been helped with surgery and treatment over the past 18 years under the Heartbeat Vietnam programme, according to a representative of Heartbeat Vietnam.

“Throughout our unwavering 18-year journey, our mission has always been to ensure that no child with congenital heart defects loses their life simply because they lack the financial means to access treatment.

"It fills us with immense joy to witness the recovery of 11,000 little hearts. This miracle results from the joint efforts and invaluable support from local authorities, dedicated medical teams, kind-hearted donors, and more.

"Most importantly, the collaboration of the community together with the VCF has ignited hope for a bright future for the children and their families, contributing to a healthier and more prosperous Vietnam,” says Don Lam, CEO and Founding Partner of VinaCapital, Chair of the VCF Board.

Statistics from the Ministry of Health show that some 15,000 infants are born with CHD in Vietnam each year. Most of these children are from families in impoverished rural areas, and many of them face financial challenges in accessing expensive treatment, long distance travel, and difficult post-operative care.

Heartbeat Vietnam has been dedicated to sponsoring life-saving surgeries for underprivileged children in Vietnam since 2006, ensuring they receive timely treatment for a healthier future.

The programme has also provided 1,215 continuing care packages for vital check-ups and follow-up appointments, 809 family grants to alleviate financial burdens on families caring for sick children, and 263 scholarships to ensure bright students can continue their education.

In line with these, the VCF has organised rural outreach clinics in remote provinces where access to healthcare is limited. Through these clinics, nearly 400,000 children have been screened, and over 11,700 children with CHD have been identified.

Those who required early surgical intervention to survive were provided with surgery and this ensures that no child is left behind.

The VCF, Heartbeat Vietnam, and other donors have committed to continuing the journey to locate and save more “children's heart” so that they can grow up healthy, dream dreams, reach their full potential and contribute to Vietnam development, said the representative./.

Localities dealing with consequences of Storm Prapiroon

Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong city, the two northern coastal localities hit by Storm Prapiroon, are quickly dealing with its consequences after it made landfall on July 23.

The storm, which weakened into a tropical depression the same day, is forecast to continue inducing prolonged downpours, causing flooding and landslides.

Ha Long city and Co To island district of Quang Ninh province have been hardest hit by Prapiroon, the second tropical storm in the East Sea so far this year, with several landslide sites spotted, various trees uprooted, and crops destroyed. Five households in Ha Long were evacuated urgently while about 50 roadside trees in Co To pulled down.

Right after the storm downgraded, residents and competent forces in Co To joined hands in handling its aftermaths.

Quang Ninh has asked its localities, especially mountainous and coastal areas that house mines and projects, to promptly take measures against possible landslides and flooding, and personnel to work round the clock in the areas prone to such disasters and to evacuate residents there to safe places.

The provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has maintained its close coordination with relevant agencies in monitoring the situation and keeping localities and units updated on weather developments to take response measures.

Competent forces in the province also stand ready to provide aid when needed, ensuring human and property safety.

The standing office of the steering committee for natural disaster prevention and search and rescue of the northern province of Bac Giang also reported that as of 4pm on July 23, heavy rains had inundated 2,273 ha of rice and 5.5 ha of other crops across the locality, caused landslides in Luc Nam district, and flooded some streets in Bac Giang city.

In the central province of Thanh Hoa, the storm also damaged many sections of roads and several houses in Muong Lat, Quan Son, and Quan Hoa districts./.

Vietnamese culture popularised in Singapore

The Vietnamese community in Singapore attended the Racial Harmony Day celebrations recently held by the host nation’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

They brought to the event the homeland’s staples, traditional conical leaf hats, Ao dai (traditional long dress), and cultural art performances.

Head of the liason board of the Vietnamese community Ta Thuy Lien said with the awareness of the significance of bridging cultures and promoting mutual understanding to shape up a harmonised and diverse environment, the community joined the event to introduce the Vietnamese culture to international friends while showing their gratitude towards Singapore for having welcomed and supported the Vietnamese nationals living and working there.

Visiting the Vietnamese booth, Chief of the MOM’s Assurance, Care and Engagement Group Tung Yui Fai spoke highly of the Vietnamese community’s contributions and enthusiastic support to various events in the nation, including the Racial Harmony Day celebrations.

The day is an annual event marked in Singapore on July 21 to commemorate the communal riots of 1964, and promote the harmony and cultural understanding among different ethnic groups./.

Vietnam, Cambodia share trade union experience

The Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) and the National Alliance Chamber of Cambodia (NACC) are sharing experience in the development of the trade union organisations at a conference held in Ho Chi Minh City from July 22-26.

The annual event aims at strengthening the friendship and solidarity between the two nations while helping the two trade unions improve their operations to better care for and protect the legitimate rights of their workers.

On the threshold of the conference, officials of the VGCL and NACC expressed their grief over the passing of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu trong, a witted politician and eminent leader who devoted his whole life to the nation and people.

In his remarks, Standing Vice President of the Ho Chi Minh City Federation of Labour Tran Doan Trung highlighted that the VGCL and NACC have shared special relations from the Vietnam – Cambodia ties, laying a stress on the significance for the two sides to exchange experience and enhance cooperation.

During the five-day event, officials of both organisations will discuss various topics on the sustainable and time-tested friendship neighbourliness and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations, and the resolutions adopted at the 13th Congress of the VGCL and the 12th Congress of the Ho Chi Minh City Federation of Labour for the 2023-2028 term.

The delegates will also look into the factors that affect trade union officials’ working motives, share experience in financial and asset inspections, pay working trips to the trade union of District 3 and that of the local healthcare sector, and visit Binh Dong communal house, a national historical and cultural relic site.

Chairman of the NACC Houth Soung, for his part, spoke highly of the annual experience sharing in the field between the two sides, hoping that they will bolster cooperation activities which have contributed to nurturing the friendship collaboration between the two countries' people, and the two trade unions in particular./.

Vietnamese, Korean youths join hands in green summer campaign in Dak Lak

A gathering to wrap up the 2024 Green Summer Volunteer Campaign and an exchange with youths from Jeollabuk province of the Republic of Korea (RoK) was held by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union of Dak Lak province on July 22.

At the event, delegates observed a moment of silence in tribute to General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away on July 19.

The summer campaign ran from July 9 - 22, involving 7,220 volunteers. Among them, 180 provincial-level volunteers were deployed to assist six districts namely Cu M'Gar, Ea Sup, Krong Bong, Lak, Krong Pac, and Krong Buk, alongside 10 Korean volunteers.

Duong Thanh Phuc, Vice President of the Vietnam Youth Federation of Dak Lak, praised the volunteers' commitment, solidarity, and proactive approach in executing various local projects. The teams reached key areas, including remote, border, and ethnic minority areas, actively contributed to rural development, environmental protection, and climate change response. They also addressed social welfare issues, cared for children, promoted legal education, and strengthened youth organisations.

By the end of the campaign, the volunteers had assisted local residents in repairing 5 km of rural roads, organised 14 waste collection and recycling events, planted 1,120 new trees, and educated youths and residents on tree planting, care, and energy saving.

Additionally, they organised nine cemetery and memorial visiting and cleaning events, 31 summer review classes, 41 youth activities, and six sessions on drowning prevention and child safety. Three outstanding youth union members were admitted to the Communist Party of Vietnam in Krong Buk district.

The 10 Korean volunteers participated in numerous activities, including schoolyard paving, fence construction, wall painting, and environmental cleaning. They donated educational and recreational equipment worth nearly 270 million VND (10,600 USD) to Ea Trul Kindergarten in Ea Trul commune, Krong Bong district.

At the event, Y Le Pas Tor, Permanent Deputy Secretary of the Dak Lak Provincial Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and President of the Vietnam Youth Federation of Dak Lak province, acknowledged the participation of the volunteers from Jeollabuk province, which, he said, has helped to strengthen the friendship between the youths of both provinces, promote international integration and enhance the efficiency of foreign affairs in Dak Lak.

On this occasion, the Vietnam Youth Federation of Dak Lak province awarded Certificates of merit to five collectives and 25 individuals for their outstanding achievements during the campaign./.

PM calls for completion of 500kV Circuit-3 transmission line by National Day

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for the completion of the 500kV Circuit-3 transmission line by the 79th anniversary of August Revolution and National Day (September 2).

The 519km transmission line, stretching from Pho Noi in the northern province of Hung Yen to Quang Trach in the central province of Quang Binh, traverses nine provinces and has a cost of around 22 trillion VND (916 million USD).

Its construction began in January 2024 to meet growing demand for power in peak times. Compensation and site clearance have already been completed, paving the way for swift progress.

Chairing a meeting with ministries, agencies and localities on July 22, the fourth of its kind in the past sixth months, PM Chinh said the project holds significance to socio-economic development, national defence-security and social welfare of localities it serves.

He urged ministries, agencies, localities and units to redouble their efforts, strengthen unity, boost determination and effectiveness to complete the project with the highest sense of responsibility.

Specific tasks were also assigned to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Vietnam Electricity (EVN), the National Power Transmission Corporation (EVNNPT), and others to ensure that all aspects of the project are carried out smoothly and on time./.

Conference spotlights Vietnam’s desire for peace

Nearly 200 domestic and foreign delegates gathered at a conference held in Dong Ha city in the central province of Quang Tri on July 22 to discuss lessons of peace from Vietnam experience, and propose initiatives to develop peace for the whole world.

At the event, jointly held by the provincial Union of Friendship Associations and the Vietnam Peace and Development Foundation, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Hoang Nam highlighted that Quang tri, once a war-torn province and having suffered tragic losses and sacrifice, carries the nation’s eternal desire for peace that deeply shook the conscience of peace-loving humanity.

According to Amiad Horwitz, a member of the Communist Party USA's International Department, Quang Tri has risen from the ashes of war to development and prosperity thanks to the success of the “bamboo diplomacy” which has helped Vietnam as a whole robustly develop its economy, promote international integration, and contribute to international peace and stability.

Chairman of the Vietnam – US Association Pham Quang Vinh held that Vietnam and Quang Tri are always a symbol of desire for peace, righteousness, friendship solidarity and sustainable development.

He suggested measures to promote the symbol, strengthen the popularisation of the Quang Tri – Vietnam image as a destination for peace, and connect Quang Tri – Truong Son trail with other historical, cultural and tourism sites for the province's socio-economic development.

Meanwhile, Director of the institute for technology, culture and education development Dr Nguyen Ai Hoc said that “a peaceful city in Quang Tri” will be the place that converges and promotes the humane values of Vietnam as well as many other nations across the globe.

Quang Tri is the most polluted locality in Vietnam in terms of unexploded ordnances. Landmines and bombs have killed over 3,430 people and injured 5,100 others since the war ended in 1975./.

Policy beneficiary families entitled to all achievements of renewal cause: President

President To Lam has called on Party committees, authorities, Vietnam Fatherland Front and mass organisations to continue seriously following the Party's guidelines and the State's policies so that war veterans, relatives of martyrs and policy beneficiary families can enjoy all achievements of the nation's renewal cause, leaving no one behind.

Lam made the call during a meeting in Hanoi on July 22 with a delegation of outstanding revolution contributors nationwide ahead of the 77th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs’ Day (July 27). The meeting also saw the presence of 91 heroic Vietnamese mothers, heroes of the people’s armed forces, labour heroes, war invalids and families of martyrs.

Expressing his most profound gratitude to them, he said over the past 77 years, especially during nearly 40 years of renewal, the Vietnamese Party and State have issued a number of policies and guidelines to support war invalids, sick soldiers, martyrs’ relatives and those who rendered service to the revolution.

He hailed them for overcoming hardships and dedicating their strength and brainpower to national development, setting shining examples in labour, production and education.

The leader called for continued efforts to remedy post-war consequences, search for and gather the remains of martyrs, improving health care for those who are lonely and without support. The goal, he stressed, is to ensure that all revolution contributors have a living standard above the local average and fully benefit from existing policies.

Priority should be given to reducing poverty for vulnerable groups and those in remote, ethnic minority, border and island areas across the country, he noted, stressing the need to educate future generations about revolutionary traditions and ideals, foster national pride and faith, and promote the spirit of patriotism, self-reliance and resilience.

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs reported that the country has to date recorded 9.2 million revolution contributors and their relatives.

Since 2013, nearly 7.9 trillion VND (329.1 million USD) has been raised to support families of revolution contributors. Over 12.7 trillion VND has been used for the construction of 67,700 new homes for such persons and the repair of nearly 45,900 others. More than 110,000 saving books worth over 403 billion VND have been presented to policy beneficiary families. Support has also been extended to those in extreme difficulty, and 2,412 alive heroic Vietnamese mothers have received lifelong care from various organisations.

Efforts to identify martyrs' remains have also been significant. Nearly 10,000 samples of martyrs' remains and over 3,000 biological samples from martyrs' relatives have been analysed through DNA testing, resulting in the successful identification of more than 1,000 martyrs./.

Requiem for Vietnamese martyrs held in Germany

The Vietnam War Veterans’ Association in Germany’s Berlin/Brandenburg metropolitan region on July 21 held a ceremony to commemorate the 77th War Invalids’ and Martyrs’ Day (July 27, 1947-2024), and a requiem for fallen soldiers.

This is one of the activities that demonstrate the traditional values of filial piety and philanthropy, and the respect and gratitude of the Vietnamese people in general and overseas Vietnamese in particular, for those who sacrificed their lives and shed their blood and bones for the independence of the Fatherland.

At the event, Nguyen Quoc Hung, Vice Chairman of the association, read the special communiqué on the passing of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. All participants observed a minute of silence to express condolences and commemorate the leader.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh expressed his gratitude to invalids and martyrs, as well as the associations, unions, as well as the families of Vietnamese veterans in Germany, who have given a lot of love and valuable support to help the families of war invalids and martyrs in different regions of Vietnam.

Notably, just a few days ago, Nguyen Quang Anh, Chairman of the Vietnam War Veterans’ Association in Germany, and several association members visited the Vi Xuyen frontline in the northern border province of Ha Giang to pay tribute to war invalids and martyrs, and to support local people living in difficult circumstances. Vi Xuyen is a place where many martyrs laid down their lives in the struggle to safeguard the northern border of the Fatherland, said Minh./.

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