Boasting great resources of forest and forest land, Vietnam is advised to develop forest ecosystem services, especially forest-based ecotourism to create jobs and improve incomes for locals, contributing to sustainable poverty reduction among mountainous communities.

A report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), in 2022, Vietnam had 14,790,075 ha of forest area, of which 10,134,082 ha were natural forests and 4,655,933 ha were planted ones.

According to the MARD’s Department of Forestry, income from forest services is about 40 trillion VND (1.62 billion USD) each year, including about 2 trillion VND from forest tourism.

Since 2016, forest-based community tourism has thrived. In 2022 alone, this kind of tourism attracted 3.1 million tourists.

Recently, national parks and natural reserves across the country, including Pu Mat, Cuc Phuong, Phong Nha Ke Bang U Minh Thuong, Ba Vi, Bac Ma, Cat Tien, Cat Ba, Hoang Lien, Tam Dao, Ba Na-Nui Chua national parks, as well as more than 60 natural reserves across the country have worked hard to promote forest-based ecotourism.

However, forest-based ecotourism in Vietnam has still been in its beginning stage with limitations in professionalism, management and resource using for tourism. Meanwhile, the research, baseline study and forest-based ecotourism development planning have yet to be conducted effectively.

Do Van Lap, Vice Director of the Cuc Phuong National Park, said that the park has organised various programmes, activities and tours in association with wildlife rescue and preservation. Cuc Phuong is home to 2,230 floral species and 669 animal species, including 73 listed by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and endangered species needing urgent protection.

Tran Anh Tuan, founder of Nature Expedition, said that the firm’s experience tourism products in Cuc Phuong National Park have attracted a large number of visitors, especially children, helping educate them about the responsibility to protect the environment and wildlife.

According to experts, Vietnam needs to give suitable policies, strategies and approaches to diversify forest ecosystem services. At the same time, the country should also diversify forest welfare for the community and educate the community about the significance of the forest, thus encouraging actions to protect fores as well as the environment and biodiversity in Vietnam.

Vietnam calls for breakthrough in CLV’s cooperation agreements

The Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) of the Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam (CLV) Development Triangle Area took place in the Lao southern province of Attapeu on February 29, as part of the 13th Meeting of the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) on the CLV Development Triangle Area underway from February 26-March 1.

The event was co-chaired by Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongphan Savanphet, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Quoc Phuong, and Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce and Head of the CLV SOM for Cambodia Peng Sovicheat, with representatives from the three countries’ ministries, agencies and authorities from 13 provinces, including Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong and Binh Phuoc of Vietnam; Sekong, Attapeu, Salavan and Champasak of Laos; and Stung Treng, Rattanakiri, Mondul Kiri, and Kratie of Cambodia taking part.

Delegates were briefed on the outcomes of the meetings of the four sub-committees on economy, security-foreign affairs, socio-environment, and local authorities; and activities related to the JCC. They also heard reports on the outcomes of the 13th Conference on Trade, Investment and Tourism Promotion and the 9th CLV Youth Forum.

The meeting later considered and approved the scheduled programme and agenda of the JCC’s 13th Meeting, along with the SOM report, and recommendations and draft report.

In his address, Deputy Minister Phuong highlighted joint activities among the three countries over the past 25 years that have contributed to their relatively high economic growth. National defence and security have been maintained, contributing to building a borderline of peace, stability, friendship, and mutual development.

However, he pointed to the slow formulation of specific policies, programmes and cooperation plans as hinderances to materialising the full collaboration potential. This requires the three countries to make concerted efforts and come up with more comprehensive solutions to make a breakthrough in regional cooperation agreements, he said.

The outcomes of the SOM meeting will be reported to the JCC’s 13th Meeting on March 1.

Ceremony commemorates Vietnam's close friend Merle Everlyn Ratner

Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Nguyen Quoc Dung and Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN attended a ceremony to commemorate Merle Everlyn Ratner – a left-wing activist and a faithful American friend of Vietnam, which was solemnly held in New York on February 28 (local time).

Among about 200 people participating in the ceremony in person and online, there were advocacy groups supporting victims of Agent Orange/dioxin (AO) in Vietnam and a large number of Vietnamese in the US.

Participants recalled memories of Ratner and reviewed the life, career and contributions that she made to the struggle for peace, social equality and the rights of workers in the US and many other countries, especially her love and dedication to the country and people of Vietnam.

Ambassador Dung expressed condolences for the passing of Ratner. He affirmed that the country and people of Vietnam always remember and appreciate her warm sentiments and contributions to the the struggle for national liberation, national unification and the development and integration of Vietnam, as well as the efforts to find justice for AO victims. The ambassador emphasised that the thoughts and activities as well as dedications of Ratner have become a valuable legacy, a source of inspiration and encouragement for her friends and comrades.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Giang said that Ratner’s passing is a great loss to not only Vietnam and the Vietnam-US relations but also to peace lovers and left-wing and progressive people in the US. The greatest legacy that Ratner left behind is the spirit of optimism, belief in the victory of peace and justice as well as the bright future of Vietnam and of working people around the world.
 
Born in 1956 in New York City, Ratner had a special love for Vietnam. She took to the streets to protest against the Vietnam War when she was 13 years old and became famous for hanging anti-war slogans on the Statue of Liberty.

Ratner actively participated in protests against the US war in Vietnam since the late 1960s, the anti-imperialism movement in the 1970s and 1980s, and anti-racism campaigns in America today.

She was a co-founder and coordinator of the Vietnam Agent Orange Relief & Responsibility Campaign in the New York area.

Ratner passed away in an accident in New York on February 5 evening.

Vietnam Ao Dai Week 2024 launched

The Vietnam Women's Union (VWU) on February 29 launched the annual Vietnam Ao Dai Week 2024 and organised an art performance programme to promote the value of the traditional costume in life, culture, and society.

The Vietnam Ao Dai Week was first held in 2019 by the VWU in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism under the theme “Ao dai – Vietnamese Cultural Heritage”. Since then, the event has been held in the first week of March every year, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, to celebrate the International Women's Day (March 8).

Speaking at the event, President of the VWU Ha Thi Nga said that the Vietnam Ao Dai Week aims to evoke love, pride, and responsibility for preserving and promoting the heritage value of the costume. It also aims to introduce the Vietnamese culture, Vietnamese people in general and Vietnamese women in particular to international friends.

Since the first Vietnam Ao Dai Week, various activities to honour the Vietnamese costume have been organised including “ao dai” photo contests, large-scale performances, parades, giving “ao dai” to poor/ disadvantaged women, free online course on making/designing ao dai, and a design campaign "Proud of Vietnamese Ao Dai".

Responding to the Vietnam Ao Dai Week, the VWU on February 29 evening organised a musical programme together with "ao dai" performances.

Collections of “ao dai” by more than 50 domestic designers were introduced at the event. Moreover, spouses of foreign ambassadors attended the programme wearing the traditional Vietnamese ao dai.

On the occasion of the 144th anniversary of International Women’s Day (March 8), diverse activities will be held in many localities nationwide.

Vietnamese students win medals at int’l mathematics contest

Seventy-two Vietnamese students won medals at the International Talent Mathematics Contest 2024 (ITMC 2024) organised in Thailand on February 24-27.

The students brought home 34 gold and 25 silver medals and one merit prize, marking the best achievement that Vietnamese students have earned at this contest so far.

The ITMC 2024 drew nearly 2,000 students from 10 countries and territories across the globe. It is a playground for excellent students to unleash their mathematics potential, and exchange experience and knowledge with each other.

An awarding ceremony was held in Thailand on February 27.

Families of heads of mission explore Vietnamese ethnic cuisine
 
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the spouses of heads of mission (SHOM) collaborated today on a mini-workshop exploring the diverse cuisine of Vietnam's rural and ethnic minority communities.Held at the French Hospital Hanoi, the event provided SHOM members with a unique opportunity to engage with these communities through their culinary traditions.

SHOM, a network fostering connection and cultural exchange among the expatriate diplomatic community, facilitated an immersive experience that went beyond a mere food tasting. Attendees gained insights into the ’nutritional value and cultural significance of each recipe, fostering understanding and appreciation of the communities these recipes came from.

A key highlight of the workshop was the launch of "Vietnamese Recipes and Stories from Ethnic Families" a remarkable cookbook showcasing the culinary heritage of Vietnam's ethnic minorities.

This publication, produced by IFAD, serves as a valuable resource for preserving traditions, promoting cultural understanding, and raising awareness about the significance of sustainable food systems.

"The spouses of heads of mission play a vital role in fostering cultural exchange," stated Willem Aumann, spouse of IFAD's Country Director in Vietnam. "We are honored to collaborate with SHOM and launch this exceptional cookbook, which makes a valuable contribution to the understanding of Vietnam's diverse culinary landscape."

Beyond cultural immersion, the workshop addressed the important themes of sustainable rural development and improved nutrition. SHOM members actively participated in discussions, exploring ways to integrate traditional practices into modern food systems for a healthier and more sustainable future.

"This event provided a valuable platform to explore the history of Vietnamese nutrition and delve into the culinary wisdom of ethnic minorities," said Prof. Dr. Ho Thu Mai, a specialist in nutrition at the French Hospital Hanoi. "By rediscovering these traditions, we can contribute to promoting healthy eating habits for all."

Ilaria Firmian, IFAD's expert on ethnic minorities, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of these communities, food systems in preserving biodiversity and combating malnutrition. "By incorporating these practices into today's world, we can create a more sustainable and nutritious future for everyone," she said.

IFAD and the French Hospital Hanoi express their gratitude to SHOM for the participation in this enriching event. The workshop served as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural exchange, sustainable development, and the unifying language of food.

Vietnam wants to continue promoting cooperation with UN: Diplomat

Ambassador Mai Phan Dung, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organisation (WTO), and other international organisations in Geneva, Switzerland, on February 29 presented his credentials to Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva Tatiana Valovaya.

At the meeting with the UN official, Dung affirmed that Vietnam will always be an active and responsible member of multilateral forums, especially the UN, through effective and substantive contributions in all aspects.

He highly appreciated the role of Valovaya, the first woman to hold the position of Director-General of the UN Office in Geneva, and thanked the office in general and the official in particular for always creating favourable conditions to connect and support Vietnam in multilateral diplomatic activities.

For her part, Valovaya congratulated the Vietnamese Ambassador on his new position at the UN, expressing her appreciation for Vietnam's role and cooperation with the UN in general as well as cooperation between the permanent mission of Vietnam and her office in particular in many fields, especially sustainable development.

Valovaya emphasised that Vietnam is always a trusted partner, an active member, and has many important contributions to implementing UN missions as UN Secretary-General António Guterres affirmed in his meeting with Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son on the sidelines of the 55th High-Level Meeting of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on February 26.

Valovaya expressed her deep impression of Vietnam and its people during her first visit to Vietnam in October 2023. The official said she wants to continue cooperating with Vietnam on many other projects in the coming time.

Dung thanked Valovaya for her good assessments and sentiments for Vietnam and said he will try to continue promoting the cooperation between Vietnam and the UN during his term, especially when Vietnam is serving as a member of the UNHRC for the 2023-2025 tenure and running for re-election as a member of the council for the 2026-2028 tenure.

Vietnam to join in more phygital sports events: Spokeswoman

Vietnam will continue taking part in sport competitions, especially the ones combining electronic and traditional sports in the future, spokeswoman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang told the ministry’s regular press briefing on February 29.

She made the remark in response to the media’s question about a Vietnamese team’s victory on February 27 in the final of the Games of the Future 2024's phygital basketball invitational event in Kazan, Russia, and the possibility of other teams to be sent to such competitions in the future.

Hang said the participation in regional and international sports competitions will help promote people-to-people exchanges, solidarity, friendship, and mutual understanding between the people of Vietnam and other countries.

“We believe that based on this victory and experience from the event participation, Vietnam will continue engaging in other tournaments, especially the ones showing the trend of combining electronic sports and traditional sports, in the future,” the spokeswoman added.

Hanoi welcomes 2.1 million visitors in February

The number of visitors to Hanoi in February is estimated at 2.18 million, including nearly 383,000 foreigners, up 7.1% and 15% year-on-year respectively, the municipal Tourism Department reported on February 28.

According to the department, the number of arrivals to the capital city is experiencing an upward trend. Total revenue from tourism activities is estimated at 8.06 trillion VND (327 million USD), a surge of 9% year on year.

Since the beginning of this year, the total number of visitors to Hanoi has hit 4.23 million, up 11.9% over the same period in 2023, of them 890,000 international and 3.34 million domestic, up 52.4% and 4.5% respectively. Total revenue from tourists during the first two months is estimated at 16.42 trillion VND (666 million USD), an increase of 20.9% over the same period in 2023.

Currently, the locality has 3,759 accommodation establishments with 71,050 rooms. The average hotel room occupancy in February reached 61.2%, up 0.4% compared to January and 5% over the same period in 2023.

Director of the Hanoi Tourism Department Dang Huong Giang said that in March, the unit will implement many activities to continue promoting tourism development, including  the "Get on Hanoi 2024" and the friendship spring tourism 2024 programme.

In addition, the department will develop a draft plan to build community and agricultural tourism models associated with practical experiences in craft villages, tourist spots and traditional cultural values of the ethnic minorities in My Duc and Chuong My districts, and other vicinities.

In March, the department will promote cooperation with provinces and cities to develop cultural and spiritual tourism routes such as Hanoi - Ha Nam - Ninh Binh, Hanoi - Son La and Hanoi – Lao Cai - Lai Chau, among others.

Ninety-two works nominated for Devotion Awards 2024

The Vietnam News Agency (VNA)’s The Thao & Van Hoa (Sport and Culture) newspaper on February 28 announced 92 nominees for its Cong hien (Devotion) Awards 2024.

Following the success of the previous edition, this year, the award, first launched in 2005, continues to feature categories for sports in addition to the traditional ones for music.

The public are encouraged to join in voting for nominations along with an election council and journalists. The voting process includes two rounds. The awarding ceremony is scheduled to take place in Hanoi on March 27.

Last year, among the nine categories for the music awards, singer Hoang Thuy Linh won three, namely the awards for music video, female singer, and album of the year.

MONO (real name Nguyen Viet Hoang, born in 2000) was named as new artist of the year, while the awards for male singer, producer and musician of the year went to Tung Duong, DTAP, and Khac Hung, respectively. The song of the year was “Ben tren tang lau” composed and performed by Tang Duy Tan, while the show of the year was “Tri am” by singer My Tam.

In the sport categories, football player Khuat Van Khang seized the award for the young athlete of the year, while Nguyen Thi Oanh, a female track-and-field athlete, was honoured as the sport figure of the year, which honour athletes with outstanding achievements, good impressions and dedication in sports activities.

The last award ‘Sports Achievement of the Year’, which recognises breakthrough by an individual or a team in professional fields, went to the national female football team who won a berth in the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023.

Various activities to celebrate International Women’s Day

A wide range of activities will be held in celebration of the 144th anniversary of International Women’s Day (March 8, 1910 – 2024), according to the Vietnam Women's Union (VWU).

The union will launch an 'ao dai' (traditional long dress) week 2024, and organise an art performance programme on February 29 evening, aiming to promoting the value of the dress in life, culture, and society, thus evoking love, pride, and responsibility for preserving and promoting the heritage value of the costume and Vietnamese culture to international friends.

The programme will feature collections of ao dai from over 50 designers nationwide, representing nearly 8,500 students who participated in a programme to design and tailor ao dai organised by the VWU in collaboration with designer Do Trinh Hoai Nam - representative of SVF Academy, in 2023.

An exhibition themed "Women with Dien Bien" will be also organised in Dien Bien Phu city of the northern province of Dien Bien from March 4, showing gratitude to President Ho Chi Minh, General Vo Nguyen Giap, and Vietnamese women who contributed to the heroic victory in Dien Bien.

On the occasion, the VWU planned to present nearly 500 gift packages and cash to martyrs' mothers, policy families, and disadvantaged women in five communes with a total value of 360 million VND (over 14,600 USD); and 50 gift packages worth 50 million VND to wives of Dien Bien martyrs and former Dien Bien soldiers.  It will give gifts to soldiers and adopted children at Tay Trang international border gate, Pa Thom border station, and the social protection centre of Dien Bien province.

A workshop and a festival of creative models/activities promoting good cultural practices of ethnic minorities to promote gender equality will take place on March 5 - 6, 2024 in Dien Bien Phu city.

Many other exhibitions will be held at the Vietnam Women's Museum in Hanoi and Vinh city in the central province of Nghe An.

Quang Ninh promotes tourism, awards Clipper Race teams

Participating in Clipper Race activities is among the key tourism promotion and investment attraction endeavours of the northern coastal province of Quang Ninh in 2024 and beyond, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Cao Tuong Huy has affirmed.

At a tourism promotion conference and Clipper Race award ceremony held in the province on February 28, Huy said that this year, Quang Ninh aims to welcome 17 million visitors, including approximately 3 million foreigners, an ambitious goal amidst domestic and international difficulties and challenges.

During the conference, local officials and businesses introduced participants to investment opportunities in the province’s industrial parks and myriad tourism projects.

In his speech, British Ambassador to Vietnam Iain Grant Frew held that the conference lays the groundwork for spurring future cooperation between Quang Ninh and the UK, positively contributing to the Vietnam-UK strategic partnership.

The province is increasingly asserting its leading role nationwide in sustainable development orientation, especially regarding clean energy, offshore wind power, education, and digital transformation, he said, pledging readiness to facilitate UK enterprises in exploring investment collaboration chances in these fields.

Following the conference was the Clipper Race awards ceremony for outstanding teams in Race 7, Leg 5, with the Qingdao team standing at the top and followed by the Zhuhai and UNICEF squads.

Northern provinces expand cooperation with China’s Guangxi province

China's Guangxi province is willing to work with the Vietnamese provinces of Ha Giang, Quang Ninh, Lang Son and Cao Bang to realise common perceptions reached by the high-ranking leaders of the two Parties and States, thus further deepening the relationship between the two countries, said Liu Ning, Secretary of the Party Committee of China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

He made the statement at the 2024 spring meeting with his counterparts from the four Vietnamese provinces in Beijing on February 27-28.

They reviewed results of cooperation over the past year and put forth orientaitons for joint work in the time to come.

They agreed that China and Vietnam are good neighbours, good friends, good comrades and good partners. They also pledged to continue to step up high-level exchanges and practical cooperation in the fields of economy-trade, people-to-people exchange, and border management.

Within the framework of the event, Liu hosted separate receptions for the Party leaders of Ha Giang, Quang Ninh, Lang Son and Cao Bang, during which they exchanged ideas on the implementation of common perceptions reached by senior leaders of the two Parties and nations as well as measures to boost practical collaboration in various fields.

Bilateral coordination helps maintain security along Vietnam-Cambodia border

Thanks to the close coordination between border management forces of Vietnam and Cambodia, security and trade activities along the shared border between the two countries have been kept stable over the years, contributing to enhancing the living conditions of people in the area.

Lieutenant Pham Van Trung from the border post at Moc Bai border gate in the southern province of Tay Ninh, which shares 240km of border with Cambodia, underlined that the joint border patrols between Vietnamese and Cambodian border guard forces play a significant role in firmly protecting the borderline and border markers of both sides.

Lieutenant General Chhoeun Bunchhorn, Director of Cambodia’s Pray Veng province Police Department, said that the force has maintained good cooperation with the border guards of Tay Ninh, while exchanging information to deal with trans-border criminals. The two sides will continue to foster collaboration to complete their assigned tasks and control criminals from crossing the border, he stated.

Colonel Le Van Vy, commander of the Tay Ninh Border Guard Command, said that external relations work has been a bright spot of the force, especially in 2023 when various exchange activities were held, along with the signing of many cooperation agreements.

Last year, border guards of Tay Ninh busted a ring of cross-border drug traffickers, apprehending eight suspects and seizing 5kilos of meth, 50 bricks of heroin. Meanwhile, the force broke 33 smuggling cases, and 68 cases of illegal entry and exit, said Vy.

The official said that in order to enhance the efficiency of bilateral collaboration, the two sides plan to review and sign coordination programmes, and establish twinning relations between border protection and management forces of the two sides, while showing stronger performance in exchanging information, especially on trans-border criminals.

The forces of the two sides will also maintain regular exchange and collaboration in settling cases happening in the shared border area in the spirit of solidarity, friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding, he added.

Young players to play friendlies against Tajikistan ahead of U23 Asian Cup

The Vietnamese U23 team are set to play two friendly matches against Tajikistan in March to prepare for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U23 Asian Cup's final round.

As many as 30 footballers are set to gather on March 12 for a training camp at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Center in Hanoi. They are then scheduled to depart for Tajikistan four days later before playing two friendly matches against the hosts Tajikistan on March 20 and March 23.

At the AFC U23 Asian Cup's final round, which is scheduled to take place in Qatar from April 15 to May 3, Vietnam will play in Group D alongside Uzbekistan, Kuwait, and Malaysia.

In Qatar, the four teams will compete in a round-robin format in the group stage. The two strongest ones will then advance to the quarter-final stage.

Uzbekistan are theoretically considered to be the strongest team because they have regularly recorded good results at continental youth tournaments over recent years.

The AFC U23 Cup Finals will also serve as a qualifier for the 2024 Olympics which will be held in France.

The top three finishers will qualify for the Paris Games, while the fourth-placed team will participate in a playoff against an opponent from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for a chance to compete at the Olympics.

Vietnam National Mine Action Centre celebrates 10th founding anniversary

The Vietnam National Mine Action Center (VNMAC) on February 28 held a meeting with representatives of embassies of countries, international organisations, and foreign non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to celebrate its 10th founding anniversary (March 4, 2014 - 2024).

In 2010, the Vietnamese Government issued a National Action Programme to overcome the consequences of post-war bombs and mines in the 2010-2015 period (Programme 504). To manage, coordinate and implement the programme, on March 4, 2014, the Government established VNMAC, under the direction of the Prime Minister and the management of the Ministry of National Defence.

For the past decade, VNMAC has made many achievements, positively contributing to the results of Programme 504. It has proactively strengthened international cooperation to gather support from the international community and established official cooperative relationships with many international organisations and foreign NGOs.

VNMAC has actively participated in regional and international conferences, seminars, and forums on overcoming the consequences of mines and bombs to exchange, share experience, and develop partnerships. The UN and organisations have appreciated the centre's activities, which demonstrate Vietnam's sense of responsibility towards global mine action efforts.

In 2018, VNMAC advised the National Steering Committee on the Settlement of Post-War Unexploded Ordnance and Toxic Chemical Consequences (Steering Committee 701) to publish a map of mine and explosive ordnance contamination at all the 63 localities across Vietnam.

Between 2016 and 2021, it coordinated with the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to successfully implement a RoK-funded project on technical surveys and mine clearance over the area of more than 16,800 ha.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy General Director of VNMAC Colonel Le Quang Hop thanked the Prime Minister, ministries, agencies, localities, countries, international organisations, and NGOs for supporting the centre during the past time.

He said that with the support of international friends, the work of overcoming the consequences of landmines and bombs in Vietnam will reap more success.

Congratulating VNMAC for its successful 10-year journey, Amy Patel, Political Affairs Counselor of the US Embassy in Vietnam, said that VNMAC has made great efforts to strengthen international cooperation in surmounting the post-war bomb and mine consequences in Vietnam.

She affirmed the US's commitment to accompanying Vietnam in building a better future for future generations.

In a video speech, Lee Byung Hwa, Country Director of KOICA Vietnam, appreciated the important role of VNMAC, saying her agency will continue to stand side by side with the centre, thereby positively contributing to the RoK-Vietnam relations, he said.

Australia-Vietnam relations towards new height: Australian Governor-General

Relations between Australia and Vietnam are moving towards a new height after the two countries celebrated the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties last year, opening a new chapter to deepen the strategic partnership, said Australian Governor General David Hurley.

Hurley made the remarks during a reception on February 28 for Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia Pham Hung Tam who came to present his credentials Governor General.

The host said that he hopes Australia and Vietnam maintain the current momentum of their relationship to strengthen bilateral cooperation, expand collaboration and exchange in regional and international issues, and promote common interests for peace, stability, cooperation, and prosperity in the region.

He believed that Ambassador Tam would make contributions to expanding and deepening the two countries' cooperation in such fields as politics, economy, security, defence, education, tourism, and people-to-people exchange.

For his part, Tam conveyed the greetings of President Vo Van Thuong and other senior Vietnamese leaders to the Australian Governor General and his spouse.

Tam expressed his belief in the bilateral relations' strong development in cooperation pillars and prospects for cooperation in new fields such as digital economy, green economy, energy transition, and climate change response.

He affirmed that he will do his best to contribute to promoting good relations between Vietnam and Australia for the benefit of the two countries' people, and for peace, cooperation, and development in the region.

VPBank VnExpress Marathon HCM City Midnight 2024 expected draw over 11,000 runners

More than 11,000 runners will compete at VPBank VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight, slated for March 3.

Of the runners, more than 500 come from 30 countries and territories, organisers said on February 28.

Athletes will compete at the distances of 5 km, 10 km, 21 km and 42 km, running through HCM City’s heritage sites like the Independence Palace, the headquarters of the municipal People’s Committee, Ba Son Bridge, Notre Dame Cathedral, Bach Dang Wharf, and the Thu Thiem new urban area, with all of the routes meeting the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) standards.

They can use their results at the tournament as part of the criteria to register for major world marathon events such as Chicago, Tokyo and Boston.

Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Culture and Sports Nguyen Nam Nhan said this is a large-scale race, so special attention has been paid to medical systems, lighting and the environment.

Through the race, HCM City wants to promote its image as a dynamic city, especially at night, able to host exciting events at all hours, he said.

VPBank VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight is the opening event of eight tournaments of the VnExpress Marathon system in 2024, the largest of its kind in Vietnam held annually to promote tourist cities in Vietnam.

Vietnamese culture introduced at Russian university

Vietnamese cultural values have been introduced to international friends during an event held by the Financial University (FU) under the Government of the Russian Federation in Moscow on February 27.

The event featured diverse cultural, art and culinary activities with the engagement of Vietnamese students in the Financial University.

It included an exhibition showcasing traditional culture of Vietnam and the Vietnam-Russia friendship as well as activities of Vietnamese students in the university, an art programme with Vietnamese songs and dances performed by Vietnamese students, and the introduction of typical Vietnamese dishes.

Addressing the event, FU President Stanislav Prokofiev highlighted the friendship and win-win relations between Russia and Vietnam over decades, which he described as a rare and unprecedented relationship in the world, with 180 students and post-graduates.

Prokofiev revealed a plan to organise a Vietnam Day in the FU to create a venue for Vietnamese students to meet and introduce Vietnamese culture and art to their peers from Russia and other countries.

Meanwhile, Counselor Nguyen Doan Hai from the Vietnamese Embassy in Russia hailed the idea to organise the event, saying that it will contribute to promoting the friendship between Vietnamese and Russian people as well as the FU and the embassy.

Vietnamese Doctor's Day observed in Moscow

The Vietnam Pharmaceutical and Medical Association (VPMA) in Russia held a ceremony in Moscow on the evening of February 27 to mark the 69th anniversary of Vietnamese Doctors’ Day.

The event offered an opportunity for the association’s member doctors and health workers to review the history of the sector.

VPMA President Hoang Xuan Mai extended regards to the members, and those working in the sector in general, and expressed his hope that they will enhance exchanges to enrich their professional knowledge.

Other participants also lauded contributions by the association to heath care for the Vietnamese community in Russia, and noted their wish that it will grow further in the time ahead.

Tiền Giang Province farmers excited as Thai jackfruit prices soar after Tết

The agricultural market in Tiền Giang Province is bustling again after Tết with many key fruits including Thai jackfruit seeing significant price increases.

Nguyễn Phương Ngọc, a trader in Cai Lậy District, said in late February the prices of Thai jackfruit nearly doubled to VNĐ30,000 per kilogramme for type one and VNĐ25,000 for type two from the previous month.

Nguyễn Minh, a farmer in Cai Lậy Town, said he recently sold over 100kg of the jackfruit at an average of VNĐ20,000, earning VNĐ2 million (US$81).

This being the peak dry season, the fruit remaining in orchards is not abundant, he said.

According to authorities, farmers are focusing on irrigation and anti-drought measures to cope with the dry weather and prepare for harvests later in the year.

The limited supply is one of the reasons for the sharp increase in the prices of Thai jackfruit after Tết.

Nguyễn Văn Mẫn, director of the Tiền Giang Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said the province has nearly 15,000ha under Thai jackfruit, with the highest concentration being in Cái Bè, Cai Lậy, Châu Thành, and Tân Phước districts and Cai Lậy town. 

The average annual harvest is over 300,000 tonnes.

Thai jackfruit is well-suited for growing in local soil conditions, and has high productivity and demand, both domestically and in other countries, especially China.

In Mỹ Thành Nam Commune, Cai Lậy District, farmers have converted hundreds of hectares of flood-prone lands that are difficult to farm into Thai jackfruit orchards that fetch high incomes. 

Nguyễn Văn Nhã of Mỹ Thành Nam Commune converted 2.2ha of rice fields into Thai jackfruit orchards. 

After three years his trees now bear fruit year-round with high yields of 25-30 tonnes per hectare per year.

Tiền Giang has seized the opportunity to export speciality fruits like jackfruit, durian, and dragon fruit to China, focusing on advanced cultivation techniques based on GAP, comprehensive measures to improve the quality of agricultural products, and encouraging the establishment of specialised cultivation areas, Mẫn said.

The province is also allotting farming area codes to serve official exports to the Chinese market.

The Tiền Giang agriculture department said over 8,500ha of jackfruit orchards have the codes along with 299 durian, jackfruit, mango, dragon fruit, and other packaging facilities authorised to export to China.

The locality is making efforts to meet the criteria for official fruit exports, particularly Thai jackfruit, it added.

New contracts expected to help teams improve

Striker Ryan Hà is expected to improve Hà Nội FC's fire power after his surprise switch to the former champions.

The Vietnamese French player arrives in Hà Nội from Becamex Bình Dương, when the V.League 1's transfer market opens.

In his first season at the V.League 1 2022 he scored twice and made two assists in 17 matches, helping Khánh Hòa stay in the national premier league.

He moved to Bình Dương earier this season, playing four games mainly coming from the bench, but never managed a goal.

Hà Nội's current strikers, except for national Phạm Tuấn Hải, have not performed well. After 10 matches, young Nguyễn Văn Tùng and Nguyễn Văn Trường have not netted a single goal or assist.

The team currently sit in sixth place with 13 points.

In today's game, Hà Nội will play flying-high Nam Định which are top of the with with 22 points.

Although Nam Định's have scored 25 goals, what the team needed was Brazilian centre-back Lucas Alves de Araujo to strengthen the defence.

Coming from Romanian Dinamo București, the 1.93m tall defender is confident he can help his new club and ready for his first home game.

"I think it will be a good match for us," he said.

"I am really focused for it and believe that we will take three points. Coming to Việt Nam I want to spread a never-give-up spirit that would help a club to be a strong one.

"I have been here for only two weeks and the Hà Nội game will be my first at home. I will have opportunity to meet with our supporters. It would be great moment and I am happy to see them."

Nam Định are in good form in V.League 1 and they have advantage of home soil where they have won four and drew one.

However, Hà Nội have been always an arch-rival to them. In the last 10 meets, Hà Nội won seven, drew one and lost only two.

Last season, Nam Định made many problems for Hà Nội in both two matches but they failed to win.

Meanwhile, Bình Dương will host Hồng Lĩnh Hà Tĩnh with both sides presenting their new contracts.

Hà Tĩnh will bring three new players midfielders Nguyễn Trọng Hoàng and Viktor Lê and striker Prince Ibara. While centre-back Janclesio Almeida Santos will try to prevent his former teammates from scoring to Bình Dương's sheet.

HCM City will entertain Bình Định at the Thống Nhất Stadium.

The hosts have suffered three losses in a row and a home ground win is needed to help coach Phùng Thanh Phương and his side remain in the safety zone.

However, this match would be hard for them when they will play without defender Nguyễn Thanh Thảo, who was banned three matches after hitting Nguyễn Văn Hạnh of Sông Lam Nghệ An in a previous match.

Ivorian striker Cheick Aymar Timité will also be sidelined due to his red card last week.

Bình Định will bring their best players as national goalkeeper Đặng Văn Lâm is also back in action and top striker Hà Đức Chinh is back scoring. 

Hoàng continue winning, setting record in Asian Age Group Championship

Nguyễn Huy Hoàng secured more gold medals and set more records at the 11th Asian Age Group Aquatics Championship on February 27 in New Clark City, the Philippines.

The SEA Games' multi-time champion finished first in the boys over-18 1,500m freestyle and set a new record of 15min 24.69sec.

It was Hoàng's second gold and record at the tournament following his victory in the 800m freestyle on February 26.

Trần Hưng Nguyên also earned his second gold in the boys over-18 400m individual medley. He was first in a time of 4:23.78.

He was the champion of the 200m IM on February 26.

Dương Văn Hoàng Quy topped the podium twice in the boys 13-14 age group. His first win was in the 400m freestyle, timing 4:06.53. His second was in the 200m butterfly with 2:03.54.

Quy has secured three golds after two days of competition.

Vietnamese athletes also grabbed three silver and six bronze medals in other swimming events along with two silvers and one bronze in diving. 

Over 100kg bomb successfully deactivated in Binh Dinh

A 115kg bomb that remained intact and had high dangerousness has been successfully deactivated in the central province of Binh Dinh.

The bomb, about 100cm in length and nearly 30cm in diameter, was discovered by some workers while they were leveling the ground at Go Cay industrial cluster in Binh Thanh commune of Tay Son district.

Be informed of the bomb, the Binh Thanh People’s Committee ordered the commune’s military command to examine and seal off the site in case of an explosion.

At about 9am on February 28, sappers from the Binh Dinh Military Command moved the bomb to the training ground of a military unit in Binh Thanh commune to deactivate it in line with regulations.

International partners vow to support Vietnam in addressing UXO

Representatives of many countries and organizations have reaffirmed their support for handling unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Vietnam – the most UXO-contaminated country.

The US will continue supporting the clearance of war remnants in Vietnam in close collaboration with the Vietnam National Mine Action Center (VNMAC) towards a UXO-free country, Amy Patel, Political Affairs Counselor at the US Embassy in Vietnam, said at a meeting in Hanoi to celebrate 10 years of VNMAC (March 4, 2014-2024).

The event was attended by representatives of the US, Japan, Germany, Norway, and Russia, among others, together with those from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), the Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the Mine Advisory Group (MAG), PeaceTrees, and Golden West.

KOICA’s Country Director Lee Byung Hwa highlighted the importance of VNMAC in overcoming consequences caused by unexploded bombs and mines. He said the agency will extend its support to the center and contribute to enhancing Vietnam-South Korea relations.

Sharing the same view, NPA’s Country Director Jan Erik Stoa expected to assist the Government of Vietnam in its long-term plans and concretize its assistance by closely working with the most affected localities.

At the meeting, Nghiem Xuan Long, Deputy Director of VNMAC, expressed his thanks to the governments and organizations for their support over the past 10 years in terms of finance, manpower, technology, and machines in handling bombs and mines in Vietnam.

It’s estimated that approximately 800,000 tons of war remnants remained in Vietnam after the end of the war in 1975. About 5.6 million ha of land, or 17.7% of land in Vietnam contaminated with unexploded bombs and mines. Explosive remnants are reported in all 63 cities and provinces nationwide, with the highest rates in the Central region, the Central Highlands, and the Southeastern region.  

Since 1975, UXO has claimed more than 40,000 lives and injured 60,000 others. The central provinces of Quang Binh, Binh Dinh, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien Hue, and Quang Ngai reported nearly 23,000 victims of bombs and mines, including more than 10,000 died of explosive weapons.

Addressing war remnants costs the government’s efforts to become an important, urgent, and long-term mission to protect civilians and boost socio-economic development.

After 10 years, VNMAC has joined with domestic and international agencies, organizations, and partners to handle UXO in an area of 500,000 ha. The efforts were worth VND12.6 trillion (US$512 million), including $95.5 million worth of foreign non-refundable aid.

Major non-refundable projects are those worth $5.5 million on removing bombs and mines in Quang Tri and Ha Tinh funded by the Government of Japan. Meanwhile, a project of its kind in Quang Binh and Binh Dinh costs a total of $33 million, including $20 million granted by the Republic of Korea. Peace Villages costing $25 million were also built in Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, and Binh Dinh with the support of South Korea.

Technical support in dozens of projects worth $70 million has been provided by MAG, NPA, Golden West, SODI, and PeaceTrees, among others.

Dozens of programs and hundreds of events were held by VNMAC to raise awareness of safety against UXO, support community activities, assist disabled groups, and help the center build data and improve capacity. In addition, the US Embassy in Vietnam has equipped facilities, built a database, and organized courses for Vietnamese agencies in the years-long mission.

Hundreds of thousands of UXO victims have received support, including medical checkups, rehabilitation, vocational training, and better livelihoods.

Among the support, non-governmental organizations from Australia, Germany, Norway, the UK, and the US have extended their assistance in improving capacity for VNMAC and Vietnamese partners in building data, information management, and risk management in projects handling war legacies.

VNMAC is working to complete the national database on war remnants to speed up the removal and overcoming consequences of war legacies across Vietnam. 

Photo exhibit celebrates motherhood on International Women's Day

A photo exhibition titled "A Mother's Love" by Hanoi-born renowned photographer Le Bich will open at the Vietnamese Women's Museum in downtown Hanoi from March 1 to 15.

The photo exhibition features 30 color and black-and-white photos that capture loving moments between Vietnamese mothers and their children. The photos were taken by photographer Le Bich for nearly 20 years.

The talented photographer traveled with his camera from the northern mountainous regions to the central provinces of Vietnam, meeting, talking and capturing the authentic and emotional images that express maternal love.

No matter where they live, whether in remote mountain villages or plains and coastal areas; whether they are women from ethnic minority areas or urban citizens; whether they are hard at work or have a few moments of leisure, the Vietnamese mothers in Le Bich's photographs always have one thing in common: a great love for their children.

Photographer Le Bich said he was struck by the image of a H'Mong mother carrying her sleeping child on her back while selling goods at the Bac Ha mountainous market in 2005.

"That was the beginning of my journey to discover the heartwarming emotions of motherhood, which are depicted in my heart and captured by my camera," he said.

The hardships and deprivations experienced by the ethnic people of the highlands highlight the steadfastness of mothers and the beauty of their strength and love. Bich has always been inspired by babies sleeping peacefully on their mothers' backs on rugged mountain roads, and mothers selling goods in the market or working in the fields. The cold of the mountainous region seems to melt with the warmth of a mother's love.

In particular, the event will feature the "A Mother's Love" photo presentation ceremony between artist Le Bich and a representative of the Vietnam Women's Museum; a meeting with journalist Tran Mai Anh - founder of the "Thien Nhan & Friends" Foundation for helping underprivileged Vietnamese children and poet Khanh Duong - author of the poetry collection "Sweet Hearts" inspired by the story of the brave boy Thien Nhan; and a traditional art performance.

Photographer Le Bich, born in Hanoi in 1972, is famous for his artistic photographs of Hanoi, Vietnamese village landscapes, and traditional handicrafts. His photographic works are realistically captured and touch the hearts of viewers, some of whom have won prestigious national photography awards. He has also held many solo exhibitions and participated in many group exhibitions in the region.

Hanoi's young talents to attend 2024 World Robot Olympiad

The TECHTITANS team from the WELLSPRING Hanoi Inter-Level Bilingual High School has been selected to take part in the 2024 Robotacon - World Robot Olympiad (WRO), known as the largest robotics competition in the world.

The young talents from Hanoi have won the Vietnamese ROBOTACON FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE 2024 championship. They will represent Vietnam in April in the US, where they will compete against international teams from countries that are leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The next-ranked teams, including NSHM SAO THUY, SHINING GLORY, HANOI ACADEMY, and NEO RECORD, will also represent Vietnam at world robotics competitions in the US, Norway, and Hong Kong (China).

The Robotacon FIRST® LEGO® LEAGUE 2024 competition is part of the ROBOTACON STEAM Robot Competition System, organized by the Danish Embassy in Vietnam and Vietnamese company Viet Tinh Anh JSC, and provides a playground for young talents with a passion for robot creation.

The competition attracted more than 500 students from primary to high schools across the country under the theme "Masterpiece". As part of the competition, students have come up with creative solutions to the combination of technology and problem-solving in art. The competition helps students develop teamwork, presentation, critical thinking, and project research skills.

All teams participating in Robotacon-WRO 2024 will receive certificates from the Danish Embassy and FIRST®, the premier STEM organization for students worldwide.

First held in 2004, Robotacon-WRO is a prestigious educational competition for students between the ages of 6 and 19. To date, about 500,000 participants from more than 110 member countries around the world have taken part in the competition.

From 2016 onwards, Vietnam's team has achieved a number of notable successes at global competitions, including three silver medals and eight bronze medals.

The competitions help young people develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way. It allows many young people to explore STEM and robotics and create new projects through various robotics competitions and challenges.

Denmark and Vietnam have been working closely together in the education sector since 2005, when a 10-year program was launched to help Vietnam introduce a new learner-centered arts education and develop a new arts curriculum for primary schools.

Education continues to be one of the priority areas for cooperation under the Comprehensive Partnership Agreement signed between the two countries in September 2013.

Nguyen Thuy Linh secures debut win in Germany in just 29 minutes

Vietnam's top female badminton player made a successful start at the 2024 German Open, clinching her first victory effortlessly.

In the early hours of February 29 (Vietnam time), Nguyen Thuy Linh took to the court for her opening match in the women's singles event against Bulgarian opponent Kaloyana Nalbantova at the 2024 German Open.

According to the initial draw, Thuy Linh was slated to face Neslihan Arin from Turkey. However, Arin withdrew from the tournament, so her replacement was Kaloyana Nalbantova, who had to compete from the qualifying round. Facing an opponent not highly regarded, Thuy Linh dominated the match, securing a 2-0 victory (21/7, 21/11) in just 29 minutes.

This win marks Nguyen Thuy Linh's first international triumph in 2024. Thuy Linh's next opponent is Lauren Lam from the United States. The 2024 German Open is part of the BWF World Tour Super 300. The tournament runs until March 3.

At present, Thuy Linh is ranked 23rd globally on the BWF rankings. After the tournament in Germany, she will continue to compete in consecutive events in France, England, Switzerland, and Spain. Among these tournaments, Thuy Linh will participate in the prestigious YONEX All England Open Badminton Championships 2024, part of the BWF World Tour Super 1000.

Due to her ongoing European competitions, Linh will not be able to participate in the Ciputra Hanoi - Yonex Sunrise Vietnam International Challenge 2024, scheduled to take place from March 12 to 17 in Hanoi. Last year, she clinched the women's singles title at this tournament.

2G signal turn-off to get done gradually nationwide

Phasing out the 2G network severely affects subscribers currently using 2G phones in the country, so this is planned not to do abruptly so as to minimize inconvenience.

2G devices, also known as feature phones, do not support newer technologies of 3G/4G/5G. Therefore, when switching off the 2G network, these devices cannot no longer function, and users have to change to smartphones that are compatible with the 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.

For the past 2 years, VinaPhone (member of Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group – VNPT), has actively turned off individual 2G stations with little or no traffic, along with updating its subscribers on necessary information. It has developed a solution so that by September 2024, all of its 2G-device users will have smoothly switched to more advanced technologies. It has advised its customers to carry out this action as soon as possible to ensure their experience and rights.

Similarly, Viettel Telecoms shared that the plan to aid its clients to move from 2G to 3G or 4G technologies has been done for 4 years. This carrier is the first in Vietnam to upgrade its 3G-device subscribers to 4G successfully. To prepare for the permanent turn-off of the 2G network, Viettel has pioneered to cover all remote and mountainous areas with the 4G network while piloting the 5G one in several provinces and cities nationwide so that its customers encounter no disruption when the 2G network is formally phased out.

MobiFone informed that it has also prepared a clear roadmap for its customers during transformation from the 2G network to 4G one. To help mobile phone users get used to this, it offers multiple data packages with various new features.

The Ministry of Information and Communications has issued a formal dispatch directing that from March 1, 2024, mobile network carriers will refuse any mobile phones supporting only the 2G technology (not in the list of 2G mobile phones approved by this Ministry). This is the latest move to adopt the policy to stop the 2G technology and promote the use of smartphones for the establishment of a digital economy and society in Vietnam.

Before the release of an official announcement of the Information and Communications Ministry about blocking 2G phones that do not meet standards from accessing current mobile networks, all carriers have actively sent notices to remind their subscribers to check their own SIM card and device. They also run campaigns to aid their customers to switch to 4G-compatible devices at reasonable prices.

Deputy Director Nguyen Phong Nha of the Vietnam Telecommunications Authority (under the Ministry of Information and Communications) said that this Ministry has so far introduce various measures for the permanent turn-off of the 2G network in the country for mobile network carriers to follow. These organizations have also successfully piloted 5G technology and will test the 6G one in 2030 as planned by the Ministry.

“The Vietnam Public Utility Telecommunications Service Fund (under the Information and Communications Ministry) is going to deliver 400,000 4G mobile phones to eligible subjects in remote areas to help them switch to newer technologies. There will also be mobilizations of social resources to help those in need to change to 4G devices synchronously”, informed Deputy Director Nha.

The specific communications of vehicles on road and sea transport will not be affected by phasing out the 2G network because these subjects use radio waves and satellites. Common 2G-device users will receive a message or a call from their carrier for advice on switching to smartphones supporting the 4G technology.

In September 2024, there is no 2G subscribers on mobile networks in Vietnam as regulated by the Ministry of Information and Communications. This is expected to affect 15 million people currently using feature phones but is necessary to save frequencies for more modern telecoms technologies. The change is supposed to promote a digital environment for the national digital transformation and to ensure higher information security.

HCMC launches social listening software

The HCMC Department of Information and Communications on February 27 launched social listening software, Socialbeat, with AI integration to monitor, track, and analyze over one billion items of information a day.

The real-time tool covers a wide variety of sources, including all major social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other social media channels.

According to Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hoa, Head of the Electronic Information Division of the HCMC Department of Information and Communications, the social listening software is used to help government agencies proactively receive and better understand the opinions and needs of citizens and businesses on activities, guidelines and policies, and legal documents. It is also a channel to capture feedback from citizens on issues in the city.
 
Director of the HCMC Department of Information and Communications Lam Dinh Thang said that the software serves as shared data for the entire city that is managed and monitored by a standing agency. The Department of Information and Communications of the city will provide training courses for the units to exploit information across various social media channels.

At the launching ceremony, the municipal Department of Information and Communications, the HCMC Union of Business Association, and the HCMC Bar Association signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on protecting people and businesses from risks of social media platforms, propagandizing and educating laws, providing legal assistance and consulting to residents and enterprises.

Ca Mau has first suspected monkeypox case

Ca Mau Province in the Mekong Delta has reported its first suspected case of monkeypox in Dinh Binh Commune, according to local media reports.

The 36-year-old patient sought outpatient treatment at Can Tho Dermatology Hospital after having developed monkeypox-like symptoms. The patient visited the hospital on February 22 and is currently awaiting test results from the Pasteur Institute in HCMC.

The patient’s family has five members, including parents who recently returned from overseas and two siblings residing in Nguyen Phich Commune, U Minh District, Ca Mau Province.

Local authorities have taken swift action by tracing and monitoring individuals who had close contact with the patient. They have conducted disinfection procedures in the vicinity of the patient’s residence in Dinh Binh Commune to prevent the possible spread of the disease.

Da Lat reservoir nears dead water level

The Dan Kia-Suoi Vang Reservoir, which serves as the domestic water supply for Da Lat City in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong, is nearing its dead water level, raising fears of a domestic water shortage among local residents. 

The upper reaches of the Dan Kia Lake-Suoi Vang Reservoir have dried up, revealing the cracked bed of the lake. This reservoir supplies domestic water to Da Lat City and parts of Lac Duong District, with a portion of its water also supporting crops in nearby areas.

To access water, people have extended pipes to a small stream in the middle of the reservoir bed and installed electric motors to pump water to their farms. Residents have even been able to drive motorbikes across the reservoir bed.

Representatives from the Lam Dong Water Supply and Sewerage Company Ltd. Co. have stated that a temporary solution involves requesting the Ankroet Hydropower Plant to reduce its power generation capacity in the coming period to help raise the water level in the reservoir.  

During the Tet Lunar New Year holiday, Da Lat experienced rotating water cuts in some areas. Several hotels and accommodations in high-altitude locations faced water shortages for days, a situation exacerbated by a sharp increase in tourist numbers.

The water pipeline from the Dan Kia 1 Water Supply Plant to Da Lat City is currently overloaded. To address this, the Lam Dong Water Supply and Sewerage Company Ltd. Co. plans to construct an additional 600mm pipeline to connect the plant to Ward 7 and establish another pumping station to satisfy the water demands of residents and tourists.

Promoting intellectuals, artists’ role in national development critically important: President

President Vo Van Thuong joined representatives of intellectuals, scientists, and artists nationwide in a gathering held in Hanoi on February 29, stressing the importance of promoting their role in national construction and defence.

Talking to the 210 outstanding representatives at the event held on the occasion of the new lunar year, President Thuong acknowledged the considerable contributions by intellectuals, scientists, and artists in various fields to the country’s significant achievements in 2023. 

By doing their jobs, they have helped improve the quality of human resources; given advice and feedback for perfecting the Party’s guidelines and the State’s policies and laws; obtained many accomplishments in their specialised areas; and contributed to digital transformation in many fields, the improvement of labour productivity and production - business performance; thereby helping better people’s life quality and ensure social security.

Many of them are bright examples of working, learning, researching, creating, and dedicating to the nation. Many have also earned international recognition and won the public’s love, President Thuong said.

Highlighting Vietnam’s tradition of respecting talents and intellectuals, he noted the Party and State have always paid special attention to developing the contingent of intellectuals, scientists, and artists while providing the best possible conditions for them to grow and contribute more to national development.

The continuation of building, developing, and bringing into play their major role in national construction and defence is a critically important task in both short and long terms, he remarked.

Given this, the State leader asked all-level Party committees, agencies, and organisations in the political system to thoroughly grasp and continue effectively implementing the Party’s resolutions on intelligentsia, science - technology, education - training, culture, literature, and arts; improve the awareness of the role and importance of intellectuals, scientists, and artists; and actively institutionalise the Party’s guidelines to create a favourable environment for them to promote their role in national development.

He underlined the need to develop both the quantity and quality of intellectuals, scientists, and artists, particularly leading experts in key areas; train high-skilled manpower; nurture talents of literature and arts; and inspire their patriotism and devotion to the nation.

In particular, it is necessary to exercise democracy, respect the freedom of thought and creation, promote professional ethics, and create optimal conditions for them to bring into play their wisdom and creativity. Besides, efficient mechanisms are needed to enable them to give advice and feedback about the Party and State’s policies to help with the country’s fast and sustainable development in the new period, according to President Thuong.

He expressed his belief that Vietnamese intellectuals, scientists, and artists both at home and abroad will contribute to the Fatherland in their own ways and join hands in enhancing the great national solidarity and the fine values of the Vietnamese culture and people, thereby contributing to national development, prosperity, and happiness.

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