More than one million students have registered for the National High School Graduation Exam in 2023, an increase of around 24,000 students compared to last year.

The total number disclosed by the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) on May 15 was 1,025,166.

According to MOET's statistics, 94.51% of these students registered for the exam online, with 917,731 students registered for test results to apply for both high school graduation and college admission.

Huynh Van Chuong, Director of the Quality Control Bureau, MOET said that all local Departments of Education and High Schools must review and correct student data before sending, with the deadline being May 19.

After the check, the MOET asks local institutions to print out the list of online registered examinees, and send it to the examinees for self-verification.

Chuong also said that all documentations related to the exam have been finalised, with the databank for exam questions ready.

The two-day 2023 National High School Graduation Exam will begin on June 28, with the Literature and Mathematics exams, and conclude on June 29 with the Social and Natural Sciences, as well as Foreign Languages exams.

Athletes secure more gold medals for Vietnam at SEA Games 32

Judo athletes earned an additional four gold medals for the Vietnamese sport delegation at the ongoing 32nd SEA Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 15.

In the women's under 44kg weight category, Nguyen Nhac Nhu An defeated her Lao rival, Ouanvilay, with an ippon to secure a gold medal for Vietnam.

In the final match of the women's under 52kg weight category, Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy beat Yanagiha, a naturalized Japanese athlete of the host country Cambodia, with a score of 1-0. Meanwhile, Hoang Thi Tinh secured a gold in the women's under 48kg weight category.

The remaining gold for the judo team was earned by Le Anh Tai. He defeated his Thai opponent, Puyang, with an ippon in the men's under 90kg weight category.

In the afternoon, Vietnamese wrestlers also received a "rain of golds" as they won in all six final events.

Following the success of Dang Thi Linh and Lai Dieu Thuong, Nguyen Thi Xuan secured a gold in the women's under 50kg weight category by defeating Jiah Aurora Pingot from the Philippines while Tran Anh Tuyet, Nguyen Thi My Trang and Nguyen Thi My Hanh triumphed in the women’s 59kg, 57kg and 62kg weight categories, respectively.

Earlier, Chinese chess players Dang Cuu Tung Lan and Nguyen Quang Nhat brought home one gold in the team's rapid event, while Lai Ly Huynh won the men's standard category.

In total, the Chinese chess team surpassed the set target by winning two golds, two silvers and one bronze.  

In the just-concluded final match of the men's under-63kg taekwondo category, Pham Dang Quang defeated his opponent from Thailand, bringing the first gold for Vietnam in this sport. It was also the 120th gold medal for Vietnam to date, solidifying its leading position on the 10th competition day of the tournament.

In stick fighting, athlete Vu Thi Thanh Binh brought the first gold for Vietnam the same day after beating Jude Oliver Marie Rodriguez of the Philippines.

The good news continued as kickboxer Nguyen Thi Hang Nga emerged victorious against Renalyn Dasalla Dacquel from the Philippines in the women's under 48kg full contact category, bringing home the first gold for Vietnam in kickboxing the same day.

Another gold was earned by Le Thi Nhi in the women's under 50kg light contact category after defeating her rival from the Philippines.

Bac Thi Khiem won a silver after losing to Cambodia's Casandre Nicole Tubbs with a score of 0-2 in the final match of the women's under 67kg taekwondo category.

Vietnam logs nearly 2,000 new COVID-19 cases on May 15

Vietnam recorded 1,987 new COVID-19 cases on May 15, according to the Ministry of Health.

The new cases brought the country’s total number of infections since the pandemic broke out to 11,592,604.

The same day, 242 patients were given the all-clear from coronavirus, lifting the total number of recoveries to 10,632,576.

Meanwhile, the death toll was still kept at 43,201, accounting for 0.4% of the total infections, as no fatality was reported on May 15.

More than 266.33 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the country to date.

Vietnam promotes multilateral cooperation with UNESCO

Vietnam attaches importance to multilateral cooperation, including with UNESCO, in the challenging post-COVID-19 context, Deputy Foreign Minister and Chairman of the National Commission for UNESCO Ha Kim Ngoc said at the 216th session of the UNESCO Executive Board that was opened on May 15 in Paris, France.

Speaking at the opening session, he said he appreciated efforts by the UNESCO Secretary-General and Director-General in mobilsing resources, promoting multi-dimensional approaches, effectively implementing activities, and providing timely support for member countries in crisis. 

Regarding the future direction, Ngoc suggested appropriate resource allocation for two global priorities, Africa and gender equality; and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth.

He also affirmed Vietnam's commitment to promoting multilateral cooperation and cohesion with UNESCO in fields of professional cooperation. 

Ngoc announced the organisation of an international conference on promoting the role of UNESCO titles for sustainable development in Vietnam in July 2023, with a view to turning UNESCO titles into support for sustainable development and inspiration for the future.

On the sidelines of the 216th session of the UNESCO Executive Council, Ngoc had meetings with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Deputy Director General Xing Qu, and Assistant Director General for Priority Africa and External Relations Firmin Edouard Matoko to promote bilateral relations between Vietnam and UNESCO. 

On this occasion, Ngoc will meet with World Heritage Center Director Lazare Eloundou Assomo and ICOMOS General Director Marie Laure Lavenir to discuss strengthening cooperation in the protection and promotion of values of UNESCO-recognised heritages in Vietnam, as well as promote the country’s dossiers seeking UNESCO titles for Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Islands, Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac relic and landscape complex, and Oc Eo Ba The relic site.

The official said that Vietnam has passed half of the term as a member of the UNESCO Executive Council. The country is said to be an active and responsible member that has made contributions to UNESCO's activities. This is considered a great opportunity for Vietnam to meet the leaders of the Secretariat and interact with member countries to strengthen cooperation with UNESCO as well as promote bilateral connections with other nations in handling global and bilateral issues.

He said that currently, Vietnam has participated in almost all of the most important mechanisms of UNESCO and the country has been very proactive, active, and responsible to contribute to the activities of UNESCO mechanisms in general and the 216th session of the Executive Council in particular.

The 216th session of the Executive Council of UNESCO will take place until May 25 in Paris with the participation of 58 member countries and an agenda with nearly 50 topics on such fields as  education, culture, science, human resources, management, and foreign relations. During the session, discussions on the draft Programmes and Budget for the 2024-2025 period are expected to draw much attention as UNESCO’s current budget fails to cover the proposed programmes and activities.

First working day of 13th Party Central Committee’s mid-term meeting

The mid-term meeting of the 13th Party Central Committee opened in the capital city of Hanoi on May 15.
In the morning, the committee convened a plenary session.

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong chaired and delivered an opening speech at the event.

On behalf of the Politburo, Politburo member and President Vo Van Thuong presided over the meeting.

Politburo member, permanent member of the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat and Chairwoman of the Party Central Committee’s Organisation Commission Truong Thi Mai presented a report on the meeting’s agenda.

Politburo member and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh presented a summary mid-term report evaluating the leadership and direction of the Politburo and the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat and several key tasks until the end of the 2021 - 2026 tenure.

The committee decided to expel Nguyen Van Vinh, former member of the Party Central Committee, former Secretary of the provincial Party Committee, former Secretary of the Party Civil Affairs Committee and former Chairman of the People's Committee of Lao Cai province, from the Party as a disciplinary measure.

They also voted and agreed to allow Nguyen Phu Cuong, member of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the National Assembly's Finance and Budget Committee, to cease holding his position as a member of the 13th Party Central Committee.

They also offered opinions on personnel in several centrally-run agencies for the Politburo to nominate them to the 15th NA for election and approval at its fifth session.

In the afternoon, they discussed in groups the mid-term report evaluating the leadership and direction of the Politburo and the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat and several key tasks from now till the end of the 2021 - 2026 term, and reports reviewing achievements and shortcomings of members of the Politburo and the 13th Party Central Committee’s Secretariat.

Fund-raising programme aims to lift poor children out of poverty

A programme to raise funds for poor children and those with disabilities was launched on May 15, as an activity of the Humanitarian Month in 2023.

The programme, held from May 12 to July 10, aims to encourage people across the country to donate resources to provide food, vehicles, canteens and clean water facilities serving poor and disabled children and those orphaned or affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, thus contributing to improving nutrition and living conditions for them and raising public awareness of child care and protection.

Specifically, people can donate to the programme via two methods: Texting with the syntax TE to 1406 (20,000 VND (0.85 USD) a message) or donating via the "Thien nguyen" (Charity) 2022 application by opening a banking app, scanning QR Code, making a transfer with the content: YEU TRE to account number 2022 - account name: Hoi Chu thap do Viet Nam (Vietnam Red Cross Society), at Military Joint Stock Commercial Bank.

The group expects to receive 2.5 billion VND through texting, and 500 million VND through the “Thien nguyen” app.

Statistics show that Vietnam currently has about 4 million children who lack access to at least two groups of basic social services, including education, health, nutrition, housing, clean water and sanitation, information, social integration and a safe living environment.

More than 160,400 children with disabilities aged under 17 are in need of social assistance measures in some forms to enable a better life.

Ministry of Public Security enhances cooperation with Cuban Ministry of the Interior

Vietnamese Minister of Public Security Gen. To Lam held talks with Cuban Minister of the Interior Lázaro Alberto Álvarez Casas in Hanoi on May 15 after chairing an official welcoming ceremony for the latter.

Lam emphasised the significance of the Cuban ministry’s first ministerial visit since 2010, which would contribute to the relationship between the two countries in general and the two ministries in particular. He also expressed his delight at the sound and effective development of the Vietnam-Cuba traditional friendship based on mutual trust, understanding, and respect.

After the COVID-19 epidemic was brought under control, between mid-2022 and now, the ministries’ cooperation resumed quickly in the fields of delegation exchange, security, technical logistics and medical care, said the Vietnamese minister.

Given that criminal activities, especially transnational, high-tech and other types of non-traditional crimes, are increasingly sophisticated and difficult to deal with, the expansion and strengthening of the cooperation has become more urgent for the interests and national security of each country, he noted.

The ministries agreed to enhance exchange of experience and equipment as well as capacity building for security officers, especially in protection techniques such as detection and prevention of terrorist plots. They said they will deploy collaboration in research and production of drugs, vaccines, biological products, including those that have been successfully researched and put into treatment for patients in Cuba.

Lam affirmed that the Vietnamese ministry gives the highest support and is willing to exchange experience and consult with the Cuban Ministry of the Interior on policies serving the construction and protection of the fatherland.

Nam Dich - Huoi Hia border crossing opens in Dien Dien

Leaders of the northern Dien Bien province of Vietnam and Phongsaly province of Laos announced the opening of Nam Dich - Huoi Hia border crossing at an inauguration ceremony in Nam Dich hamlet in Cha Nua commune of Dien Bien's Nam Po district on May 15.

Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the Dien Bien provincial People's Committee Pham Duc Toan affirmed that the opening of the border crossing holds significant economic and political importance. It opened up new potential in economic, commercial, political, and cultural ties between the two provinces while laying a foundation for the registration and control of border entry and exit in accordance with legal regulations of both countries.

Deputy Governor of Phongsaly province Khamlek Chayesan, for his part, said the inauguration of the border crossing was an important milestone to further strengthen the great friendship and special solidarity between Vietnam and Laos, encouraging residents in border areas to exchange goods and production experience, thereby improving their lives.

Agreeing with the proposal of Dien Bien’s leader regarding the upgrade of the road from Muong May district to the Nam Dich – Huoi Hia border crossing, Chayesan wished the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, and between Dien Bien and Phongsaly would be sustainable forever.  

On the occasion, the two provinces chose One Commune, One Product items to display at the event.

Seminar spotlights Vietnam-France relations

A seminar on Vietnam’s diplomatic policy on the Indo-Pacific region and Vietnam-France relations was held at the Vietnamese Embassy in Paris on May 15.

The event was jointly organised by the Department of International Relations of the French Institute for Advanced National Defense Studies'(IHEDN) and the institute’s Alumni Association. It aims to provide an overview of Vietnam’s foreign policy on the region from academic and practical perspectives as well as Vietnam-France relations within the framework of the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.

A lot of questions reflecting common concerns about Vietnam's views on the Indo-Pacific strategy of France and Europe as well as solutions to implement the strategy effectively were raised by participants at the event. The strengthening of bilateral relations with Vietnam and ASEAN as well as each member country was also touched upon.

Participants spoke highly of Vietnam's comprehensive and inclusive approach to the Indo-Pacific region, especially in terms of security, economy and sustainable development to contribute to peace, prosperity and long-term cooperation in the area.

They expressed their belief that the cooperation between Vietnam and France will contribute to maintaining stability in the regional and international environment as well as fostering the outcomes from the rich and diverse relationship between the two countries over the past 50 years.

Cuban Women's Union delegation visits Ninh Binh province

A delegation of the Cuban Women's Union (CWU), led by its Secretary General Teresa María Amarelle Boúe, visited the northern province of Ninh Binh on May 15.

Receiving the delegation, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Pham Quang Ngoc briefed the guests on the province's socio-economic development, Party and political system building, ensuring national defence and security, and women’s movements.

Ninh Binh is among the leading localities nationwide in the number of female deputies to the 14th National Assembly, reaching 50%, he said, noting that all-level women’s unions in the province have played a key role in women and gender equality-related affairs.

Ngoc called on the Vietnam Women’s Union and the CWU to create conditions for the Ninh Binh women’s union to contribute to cooperation between the two sides in the time ahead.

For her part, Teresa María Amarelle Boúe agreed with the official’s proposals, and lauded some women models launched in the province, saying the information she got during field trips to the models are useful in Cuba.

The Cuban official expressed her hope that Vietnam in general and Ninh Binh in particular will further share experience in women-related affairs, contributing to Cuba’s socio-economic development.

Hanoi launches free health examination, management programmee

The Hanoi Department of Health on May 15 coordinated with the capital city's Me Linh district in launching a programme on health examination and management for people living in the district.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Chairman of the municipal People's Council Nguyen Ngoc Tuan emphasised that this is a practical and meaningful activity in the work of ensuring social welfare, especially for those living in difficult circumstances, so as to promptly detect disease cases, provide healthcare advice, make electronic health management records for locals, and reduce the burden of medical examination and treatment for upper-level medical facilities.

In order to make the programme a success, Tuan asked Me Linh to focus on directing and effectively implementing it. After evaluating the results, the city will consider replicating this model to other localities.

Doctors and physicians from centrally-run and Hanoi hospitals are participating in the programme.

This time, Me Linh district plans to provide free health check-ups and management for 180,600 out of the 250,000 people in Me Linh.

The total budget for the programme is more than 20 billion VND (853,000 USD), mainly from socialisation sources.

SEA Games 32: Vietnam sweeps wrestling, sepak takraw with three gold

Vietnam's female wrestlers on May 15 won two gold medals at the ongoing 32nd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in Cambodia.

Dang Thi Linh secured one of the golds after defeating wrestlers from Indonesia and Singapore in the 76kg category. Her teammate, Lai Dieu Thuong, beat Lao and Cambodian rivals in the 68kg event to bring home the other gold medal.

Earlier, Nguyen Thi Yen, Tran Thi Ngoc Yen, and Nguyen Thi Ngoc Huyen won gold in women’s sepak takraw doubles.

The same day, Vietnamese fencers bagged a gold medal in the men’s sabre team event after defeating the Singaporean team 45-31.

The four golds helped raise those by the Vietnamese delegation at the biggest regional sporting event to 111 so far.

Vietnam promotes peaceful future in Indian Ocean

Deputy Foreign Minister Do Hung Viet joined over 300 senior officials, researchers, and scholars from more than 30 countries worldwide at the 6th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh from May 12-13.

In his speech at the plenary session, the Vietnamese official shared his assessment of the situation in the Indian Ocean and Asia-Pacific regions, especially major challenges facing the region due to the impact of conflicts, disputes, and strategic competition among major powers, as well as non-traditional security issues.

He conveyed a three-point message for a peaceful, prosperous and solid future of the region, stressing the need to build an open and inclusive regional architecture based on fundamental principles of international law with ASEAN playing the central role; enhance mutual understanding and respect, build trust and conduct an independent and self-reliant foreign policy in the context of competition among major powers; and promote cooperation and partnership, especially maritime cooperation, through bilateral and multilateral mechanisms and a comprehensive approach. 

The Vietnamese representative also emphasised the importance of respecting and complying with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS); and the necessity to respect the sovereignty, sovereign rights, jurisdiction, and legitimate maritime interests of each country in accordance with international law, and resolve disputes and differences through peaceful measures in line with international law.

Viet highlighted ASEAN’s efforts in implementing the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and building a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in accordance with international law.

He proposed strengthening cooperation and connectivity among countries in the Indo-Pacific region, especially with ASEAN member countries, in promoting sustainable development, turning the blue-sea economy into a motivation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth, and addressing non-traditional challenges.

In the framework of the conference Deputy FM Viet had bilateral meetings with State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka Tharaka Balasuriya, Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Tim Watts and Secretary (East) of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Saurabh Kumar.

During their meeting, Viet and Balasuriya affirmed that Vietnam and Sri Lanka will continue to coordinate and support each other at international forums, and agreed to soon organise meetings of important bilateral cooperation mechanisms; strengthen cooperation on Buddhism and spiritual tourism; consider the opening of air routes connecting the two countries, and seek solutions to expand two-way trade and investment in the coming time.

Meeting with Viet, Tim Watts affirmed that cooperation with Vietnam is always Australia's priority in both bilateral and multilateral frameworks. For his part, the Vietnamese official suggested the two countries fully tap the growth momentum of bilateral trade; facilitate cooperation in agriculture, labour and tourism; and expand cooperation to new areas of mutual benefit such as climate change response, digital economy, and energy transition.

During his meeting with the Indian official, Deputy FM Viet affirmed Vietnam's consistent policy of attaching importance to the traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership with India. He suggested the two sides strengthen the exchange of high-ranking delegations, bolster cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, culture, people-to-people, and security - defence; and closely coordinate at multilateral forums.

Saurabh Kumar said India will continue to further expand cooperation with Vietnam, especially in trade, oil and gas, and defence, and at international forums.

Party leader emphasises improving leadership in new period

Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong on May 15 called on delegates to a mid-term meeting of the 13th Party Central Committee to contribute to improving the Party’s leadership, making it purer and stronger to satisfy higher requirements set in the new development period.

In his opening remarks, the leader stressed that the meeting is significant to the realisation of resolutions adopted at the 13th National Party Congress, saying it offers an opportunity to look back on achievements recorded since the beginning of the 2021-2026 tenure, and identify limitations, their causes and lessons drawn, in an objective and comprehensive manner.

Regarding a report reviewing the leadership of the Politburo and the Secretariat, and some key tasks till the end of the tenure, the Party chief said it touches upon the domestic and global situation objectively and comprehensively since the 13th National Party Congress, which has experienced more rapid, unusual developments, and more difficulties and complexities as compared with the forecast as well as the corresponding period of previous terms.

The report also pointed to outstanding advantages, main shortcomings and their causes and lessons on the leadership in Party building and rectification and socio-economic development, among other fields, he continued.

It included analysis on the domestic and global situation from now till the end of the tenure, and major tasks for the second half of the term, the leader added.

Trong urged the committee members to uphold their sense of responsibility and democracy to contribute opinions on the report, and raise proposals on specific contents and issues that need supplements, amendments and clarification, if any.

He noted that reviewing the leadership of the Politburo and the Secretariat should be conducted in parallel with assessing the implementation of the resolutions of the 13th National Party Congress, given a host of new and more severe challenges emerging in the domestic and global situation.

The report, once approved by the committee, will serve as a foundation for the Politburo and the Secretariat to carry forward achievements recorded in the first half of the tenure, while quickly and seriously dealing with shortcomings to better perform their tasks in the remaining time, he said.

The top leader emphasised that the results made over the past time are attributable to tireless efforts by the entire Party, people and army through tenures.

During the meeting, the committee will cast a vote of confidence on members of the 13th-tenure Politburo and the Secretariat.

In this regard, he said the confidence vote is intended to better materialise the committee’s guidelines, policies, resolutions and conclusions on Party and political system building and rectification, and building a contingent of high-ranking Party officials who have sufficient virtue and ability to perform their tasks, thus contributing to consolidating and enhancing the confidence of officials, Party members and people in the Party.

The Party chief also urged the committee to ensure democracy, objectivity, publicity and transparency both in holding the vote and using its results.

SEA Games 32: One more gold medal for Vietnam fencing team

Vietnamese fencers on May 15 won a gold medal in the men’s sabre team event at the ongoing 32nd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 32) in Cambodia after defeating the Singaporean team 45-31.

Meanwhile, the female fencing team including Luu Thi Thanh Nhan, Pham Thi Ngoc Luyen, Ha Thi Van Anh, and Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong won silver in the women's foil team event after losing to Singapore in the final with a score of 25-43.

SEA Games 32 is held in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, and Kep in Cambodia from May 5 and will be closed on May 17.

Vietnam attends ESCAP’s 79th session in Bangkok

Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet is attending the 79th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) that is being held in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 15 and 16, with the participation of nearly 650 delegates from 49 countries and territories as well as regional and international organisations.

Addressing a discussion on May 15, Viet highlighted opportunities and challenges during the process of socio-economic development and implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in the region in general and Vietnam in particular, underlining challenges from climate change in the Asia-Pacific region and Vietnam.

He expressed concern about severe and profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and current global challenges such as conflicts, food and water insecurity, natural disasters, biodiversity degradation, and environmental pollution, on the current process of socio-economic development and recovery, especially the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In this context, the Vietnamese representative suggested strengthening regional cooperation in environmentally-friendly trade and investment, tourism, connectivity, digital transformation and sustainable urban development.

Viet called for closer international collaboration at all levels in financial support, technology transfer, sharing of knowledge and experience. The international community, especially developed countries, should make strong commitments at the 2023 SDG Summit slated for September in New York, and the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in November and December in Dubai, he said.

The diplomat also proposed the ESCAP promote its role in hastening the commitments, coordinate regional cooperation, support regional countries in evaluating the progress of SDGs and enhance statistical capacity.

On this occasion, Viet thanked and proposed the international community continue cooperating with and supporting Vietnam in realising the SDGs as well as the commitments it gave at COP26, and implementing the Just Energy Transition Partnership.

He affirmed that Vietnam will continue to work closely with the ESCAP and international partners to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world with the motto of “not leaving anyone behind”.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Viet had meetings with President of Palau Surangel S. Whipps Jr., and Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Akimoto Masatoshi.

Meeting with Palauan Presiden Whipps Jr., Viet said that Vietnam highly valued and hoped to bolster relations with South Pacific island nations, including Palau.

Expressing his delight at the progress of the bilateral relationship since the two countries set up diplomatic relations in 2008, with close cooperation and mutual support within multilateral mechanisms, Viet said that the two sides should increase the exchange of delegations at all levels and strengthen collaboration in trade, investment, tourism and labour.

President Whipps Jr. said he was impressed by Vietnam's socio-economic achievements, holding that there is plenty of room for the two sides to promote their relations. He asked Vietnam to soon open a direct air route linking the two countries to foster people-to-people exchanges, tourism and trade cooperation, while considering the supply of labourers to infrastructure construction projects in Palau in the time to come.

At the meeting with Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Akimoto Masatoshi, the two officials held that Vietnam and Japan have shared high mutual political trust and growing ties in all fields.

Viet thanked Japan for supporting Vietnam in socio-economic development over the past years, proposing the two sides continue to work closely together in organising activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2023.

He thanked Japan for inviting senior Vietnamese leaders to attend the expanded G7 Summit and the International Conference on Future of Asia to be held in Japan.

For his part, Akimoto Masatoshi underlined that Vietnam is an important partner of Japan in the region. He suggested the two countries foster coordination in both bilateral and multilateral frameworks, while supporting each other at multilateral forums.

Japanese flower arrangement exhibition opens in HCM City

A Japanese Ikebana (flower arrangement) exhibition was opened in Ho Chi Minh on May 13 to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and Vietnam (1973-2023).

The event was jointly organised by the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Association in city, the Ikebana Ikenobo Vietnam Centre Study Group and the Ikebana Ikenobo Japan School.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Nguyen Phuoc Loc, Chairman of the Vietnam- Japan Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh, said the event is expected to strengthen and cement the tradition friendship and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries in general and the locality and Japan in particular.

For his part, Consul General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City Ono Masuo praised the association's efforts in organising several cultural, education, economic and sport activities between Vietnam and Japan, contributing to the relations between the two sides.

Ikebana, also known as Kado, was formed in the 15th century and has so far always been loved by generations of people and beyond the borders of Japan.

It expresses the beauty of the hidden vitality of plants and flowers in the development stages of plant life and brings nature closer to everyday life, helping practitioners understand more about the beauty and have a more peaceful and calm view of life.

Hanoi hotel top of world’s most worthy accommodations for a summer trip

Online travel booking agency Agoda has revealed its list of the top most 11 worthy accommodations for a summer trip, including Smarana Hanoi Heritage Hotel.

According to the list, Agoda’s experts and users rated the hotel in Hanoi as 9.2 out of 10 points.

"It surely stands out with vibrant colors, lively plants and charming French balconies," says the agency.

Located in Cau Giay district, Smarana Hanoi Heritage Hotel is inspired by the art, culture, and beauty of Hang Trong folk paintings. From the hand-crafted furniture to the bespoke amenities, with the site bringing guests a unique experience of Hanoi’s culture and art to create unforgettable memories.

Rounding off the list of Agoda’s top 11 most worthy accommodations are Shipping Container Hotel in Singapore, Feel Good Bangkok Hostel in Thailand, KLoe Hotel in Malaysia, Nightcap at Belgian Beer Café in Australia, Seda Residences Makati in the Philippines, Casa Severina in India, and Desa Hay Canggu in Indonesia.

Bookcase project helps introduce Vietnamese culture in Belgium

A bookcase of Vietnamese books was launched by Youtube channel Viet Happiness Station in Pho Sure restaurant owned by an overseas Vietnamese (OV) in Ostende city, Belgium on May 14.

This is the first Vietnamese restaurant abroad that has implemented the project.

Kieu Bich Huong, who is in charge of the channel, said that the project aims to introduce Vietnamese culture and literature, history, tourism, art, and cuisine to overseas Vietnamese (OVs) and international friends in a closer and more accessible way.

Phuong Mai, the owner of the restaurant, said she hopes her restaurant will be a cozy space for everyone to enjoy Vietnamese foods and read books about Vietnam.  

Addressing the event, Vietnamese writer Kieu Bich Hau, who is on a trip to Europe to attend some international literary conferences, highly valued the initiative "Vietnamese bookcases in Vietnamese restaurants abroad", saying that this is the first step to roll out similar bookcases in other restaurants in different countries.

She promised to support the project and called on other sponsors to join hands in expanding Vietnamese bookcases abroad.

Poet Nhu Quynh de Prelle, who is living in Brussels, was very touched when she can contribute her own books to the project. She expressed the hope to introduce more Vietnamese books abroad.

Ronald Clercx, a regular Belgian customer of Pho Sure restaurant, said literary books, especially bilingual ones, will help customers get insights into the country and people of Vietnam.

Through the project, Viet Happiness Station hopes that restaurants abroad will serve as bridges to bring Vietnamese books, especially bilingual ones, to many foreign readers.

Listening to the stories of áo dài in France

A seminar on Vietnamese áo dài (traditional long robe) was held at the City Hall of Kervignac city, Morbihan region, France, on May 13.

Titled "Listening to the Stories of Áo Dài", the event is in the framework of the "Toucher Arts" project, which includes a series of seminars, concerts, exhibitions and workshops concerning Vietnamese culture at French schools, in response to the anniversary of 50 years of diplomatic relations and 10 years of strategic partnership between Việt Nam and France.

Attending the event were Elodie Le Floch, mayor of Kervignac, and Stephanie Do, the first Vietnamese-born politician in the French Government; together with nearly 100 French people interested in Vietnamese culture.

At this event, the online exhibition “Áo Dài tells stories” at www.toucherarts.com, was also launched for the first time to the French public, which chronicled the stories of characters around the world, recounting memorable moments in their lives that behold the presence of áo dài.

Young photographer Thảo Nguyễn also introduced the photo collection "Dreaming Hội An", which will be on display at Kervignac City Hall from May 13 to 28.

The seminar and exhibition "Listening to the Stories of Áo Dài" is organised by ART SPACE Association and Vietnam Bretagne Sud Association, in cooperation with APPEL Lorient Association, with the support of Kervignac City. The project is completely non-profit and is carried out to raise funds for orphanages and disabled children in different regions of Việt Nam.

Three speakers with different experiences and perspectives share how they feel, appreciate and promote the image of áo dài to international friends.

Derived from the idea "áo dài is not only a traditional costume, áo dài is also a historical witness present at most important milestones in Vietnamese people’s life, especially women". The seminar invited three special speakers: a French artist, a Vietnamese teacher and a Vietnamese boy who grew up in France.

During the talk show, Dominique Penhhoat, a French-Vietnamese sculptor and writer, author of the autobiography Les trois cousines en Indochine, shared a deep memory with áo dài that she loved the most, a gift from relatives in Việt Nam that she had just found during her journey back home for more than ten years. 

The second speaker from Việt Nam, Nguyễn Thị Cúc, is a teacher with more than 20 years of experience in education and cultural exchange for thousands of Vietnamese and French students.

Present at the talk, Cúc shared with her French friends the story of the Vietnamese dress and the connection with the image of teachers and students. At the event, the speaker also helped French people discover the Vietnamese costume with the workshop "Drawing Áo Dài" with watercolours.

Despite being the youngest speaker, 12-year-old Kevin Nguyễn, has two years of experience in conducting workshops promoting Vietnamese culture in many schools in the Loire Atlantique region, France. Having access to both French and Vietnamese cultures, he has brought interesting stories about the image of áo dài from the perspective of second-generation Vietnamese children born and raised in France. 

Kevin Nguyễn also shared his memories of the first áo dài, the journey of bringing áo dài and Vietnamese culture to introduce to French students, how French children went from surprise to falling in love with the national costume of Việt Nam.

Also at this event, the virtual exhibition Toucher Arts at www.toucherarts.com was officially launched to the French public as well as international friends. There are three collections on display: a photo exhibition “Dreaming Hội An” by young artist Thảo Nguyễn; an exhibition “Listening to the stories of Áo Dài”; and an exhibition of children’s paintings from around the world, called "Connections" (this exhibition will open in June 2023).

At the event, the French audience discovered touching stories from the online exhibition "Listening to the Stories of Áo Dài". This is a project with the idea of interviewing 100 special characters around the world, of all ages and living situations, about memories and experiences related to the long dress, including many characters living abroad.

The stories are presented in three languages: ​​English, Vietnamese and French, and are aired on a weekly basis, from May 13 to July 15, the end date of the entire TOUCHER ARTS project series.

All French people who attended the event "Listening to the Stories of Áo Dài" were given a souvenir which is a Vietnamese long dress. In return, the French people who love the dress and Vietnamese culture, upon receiving a piece, will agree to contribute an amount to help disadvantaged and disabled children in Việt Nam. 

Hoàng Thu Trang, president of the ART SPACE Association, and head of the organising committee, said: "We want to introduce to the French public and other international friends a deeper and more impressive image of Vietnamese áo dài than they know before. Through the memories of the traditional dress told by nearly 100 people around the world, diverse in age and place of residence, international friends can feel the love and respect of the storytellers for áo dài, not only as a cultural symbol of Việt Nam, but also as a historical witness of most of the important milestones of a person's life. Many French people told me that this event helped them understand more about the dress, vividly and emotionally, making them grow a deeper love for the costume and Vietnamese culture in general." 

Vietnam attends EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Stockholm

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang attended the second EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Stockholm on May 13.

Speaking at the event, Hang said that the global economy is at a crucial turning point, from quantity-based to quality-based growth, and from a resources-based to a knowledge-based economy.

In the process of cooperation in transition and dealing with global challenges, with the three keywords of “cooperation, coordination and connectivity”, countries need to have a suitable approach so as to overcome differences, meet the needs of the parties, and create a favourable environment for businesses and people, stressed Hang.

From Vietnam's experience in economic development and international integration, she highlighted three “balance” factors that need to be ensured, namely between obligations and capabilities; between self-reliance, and openness, economic integration and linkages; and between transformation and stability, she said, adding that the process of green and digital transformation must ensure financial sustainability and social stability, energy security and food security.

The official affirmed that Vietnam appreciates European partners’ financial commitments on climate change and hopes for their continued support to achieve the net zero emission target.

She also reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitments to the Asia-Europe Partnership, and called on countries to coordinate in resuming activities of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) for peace, cooperation and development.

The ministerial forum, co-chaired by Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell Fontelles, offered a chance for foreign ministers of European countries and those in the Asia-Pacific region to share opinions on and assess opportunities, challenges and prospects for cooperation, and propose initiatives and solutions to enhance connectivity and promote coordination in addressing common issues.

Josep Borrell expressed his hope that the forum will become a regular channel of dialogue connecting European and Indo-Pacific countries.

Delegates shared concerns over complex and multi-dimensional security challenges affecting the two regions, affirmed commitments to international order based on international law, and agreed to strengthen cooperation in response to common challenges to ensure regional security and facilitate development.

They highlighted the importance of maritime security cooperation, and ensuring freedom of navigation and aviation in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the waters of the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, including the East China Sea and the East Sea.

Da River bank faces severe erosion

The severe erosion of a section of Da River which runs through the northern province of Phu Tho’s Tam Nong District is threatening as many as 150 local households.

According to authorities of Tam Nong District, the erosion has occurred in Dan Quyen Commune since early this year. This has been partially attributed to the frequent changes in the flow of the Da River. Water discharge activities of the Hoa Binh hydropower dam have also caused the fluctuation in the water level of the Da River. The geology of this area is mainly sand and sandy loam, so it is easy for erosion to happen when there are large fluctuations in water level.  

Some spots have seen erosion of 70-80 metres deep.

The Vice chairman of the Phu Tho People’s Committee recently inspected the eroded area. He agreed with Tam Nong District’s proposal to take urgent solutions to deal with the problem to ensure the safety of the locals.

The district has placed warning signs in the area and banned vehicles and people from entering.

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