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President Vo Van Thuong received a delegation of the Japan - Vietnam specialists’ association led by President of Hiroshima University Prof. Ochi Mitsuo in Fukuoka city on November 30.
The Vietnamese leader, who is paying an official visit to Japan, attributed the two countries’ cooperation achievements partly to substantial contributions by their people, including the specialists’ association, in the fields of science - technology and education - training.
He considered the upgrade of Vietnam-Japan ties to the comprehensive strategic partnership as a chance for the association to step up cooperation with Vietnam.
Highlighting the association and the Hiroshima University’s cooperation activities with Vietnam, Ochi said his university and association members hope to enhance ties with Vietnam in manpower training, the semiconductor industry, carbon neutrality, and smart city building. They are ready to welcome and provide training for Vietnamese students.
The university and the association, which gathers many professors, doctors, and scientists in various areas at universities and research institutions of Japan, hope to receive support from President Thuong and relevant agencies of Vietnam, he noted.
President Thuong appreciated Ochi and other association members’ cooperation with and assistance to Vietnam, which he said have generated practical results in education - training and science - technology.
He also applauded the cooperation programmes on agriculture and forestry between the Hiroshima University and the Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry.
As Vietnam, especially its Mekong Delta, is hit hard by climate change, including the sea level rise, the State leader asked the association to expand partnerships with universities and localities of Vietnam in this field, in which many Vietnamese universities are studying and wishing to boost cooperation with international partners.
Agreeing with the association’s cooperation proposals, the President said they are the areas where Vietnam has high demand for. He also called on the association to promote concrete cooperation activities in the time ahead, particularly in manpower training and semiconductor research and production.
Vietnamese President meets Japanese families participating in youth exchanges
President Vo Van Thuong and his spouse on November 29 attended a gathering and joined a breakfast with the Japanese families that used to welcome young Vietnamese during youth exchanges between the two countries.
The event, part of the Vietnamese leader’s official visit to the Northeast Asian nation, was also participated by representatives of some Japanese organisations such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japan International Cooperation Centre (JICE), and the youth leaders development organisation of Japan (DAY), which have coordinated with the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU) Central Committee to hold youth cooperation activities and exchanges.
President Thuong, who used to take part in such programmes, said those practical and meaningful friendship exchanges have helped young Vietnamese promote their understanding about and love for Japan as well as the hospitable, sincere, and kind Japanese people.
He also thanked JICA, JICE, DAY, and the units which have actively worked with the HCYU Central Committee for organising exchanges in the two countries, substantially helping maintain and promote the traditional friendship and cultural exchanges between both peoples.
Expressing their delight at meeting the Vietnamese leader and his spouse, the Japanese families said they are impressed that Thuong still cherishes his memories of the time he spent in Japan in the past.
They offered congratulations on the achievements gained during the 50 years of bilateral relations and also shared their memories of the Vietnamese youth who are smart, friendly, and industrious. They added that they hope to welcome more young Vietnamese people to youth cooperation activities and cultural exchanges in Japan.
For their part, representatives of the Japanese organisations highlighted the meaningfulness and results of joint activities between the youths of Vietnam and Japan. They noted that coordination with the HCYU Central Committee will be further enhanced to carry out more projects to bring cultural, people-to-people, and youth exchanges on par with the newly established comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.
President Thuong held that the elevation of bilateral ties is a chance to expand and foster people-to-people exchanges, including those between the countries’ young people.
He voiced his hope that agencies, organisations, localities, and families of Japan will keep working closely and effectively with the HCYU Central Committee and related agencies of Vietnam to hold more cooperation activities between Vietnamese and Japanese youths to unceasingly nurture the ties between the countries’ peoples and young generations.
Also on November 29, President Thuong attended an exchange programme between Vietnamese martial arts Vovinam and the Japanese martial arts held in Tokyo.
Vietnamese President receives leaders of Japanese prefectures
Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong on November 29 received Governor of Fukuoka prefecture Hattori Seitaro and leaders of Nagasaki, Miyazaki, Saga and Kagoshima prefectures of Japan, as part of his ongoing official visit to the East Asian country.
The President highly appreciated the efforts of the Governor of Fukuoka prefecture and leaders of localities in the Kyushu region in promoting multifaceted cooperation with Vietnam.
Emphasising that the upgrade of Vietnam - Japan relations to the "Comprehensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia and the world" will open up a new stage of development in the two countries' relations, the Vietnamese leader requested the Japanese officials to make greater efforts to realise the new relationship framework by promoting cooperation between the Kyushu region and Vietnamese localities, and enhancing cooperation with Vinh Long, Binh Thuan provinces and Can Tho city through exchange activities and exchange of delegations at all levels.
He called for more investment from the Kyushu region’s enterprises in Vietnam, especially in the fields of their strengths such as processing, manufacturing, smart agriculture and wastewater treatment and cooperation in human resources training.
The Japanese officials briefed President Thuong about cooperation between the Kyushu region and Vietnam in recent times, affirming that the region is willing to strengthen collaboration with Vietnamese localities and wants to receive more high-quality labourers and technical apprentices from Vietnam to work in the prefectures.
Hattori Seitaro said he wants to resume the Study Tour programme for high school students to Vietnam, thereby enhancing mutual understanding between the two countries' young generations while the Deputy Governor of Kagoshima prefecture affirmed that he will make efforts to promote the opening of regular flights between Kagoshima prefecture and Vietnam, thus strengthening economic and tourism cooperation between the two sides.
President Thuong asked the leaders of the Japanese prefectures to support and create favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community to live, study, work successfully, and actively contribute to the development of Japanese localities as well as good relations between the two countries.
The same day, President Thuong met with staff of the Vietnamese Consulate General in Fukuoka prefecture and representatives of the Vietnamese community in the Kyushu region.
Vu Chi Mai, Consulate General of Vietnam in Fukuoka, said that over the past time, the staff of the Consulate General has made great efforts to overcome difficulties and uphold their responsibility to successfully fulfil assigned tasks, especially supporting and protecting citizens in the Kyushu region, where more than 50,000 Vietnamese people are living, working and studying.
The Consulate General has established a team of public lawyers to assist and protect citizens, and carry out the communication work to help the Vietnamese community comply with the host country's law. It has also regularly organised trade promotion and social charity activities, cultural exchanges and sport tournaments to bring the Vietnamese community closer together.
The President said that the Party and State always want overseas Vietnamese, including those in Japan to well integrate into the society of the host country, maintain the traditional cultural identity of Vietnamese people, make more contributions to the host nation, and cultivate the Vietnam-Japan friendship.
He called on the Vietnamese community in the Kyushu region to comply with the host country's laws and promote the image of Vietnamese people in the eyes of international friends.
15th NA’s sixth plenary session wraps up, with set agenda completed
The 15th National Assembly (NA)’s sixth plenary session wrapped up in Hanoi on November 29 morning.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue said that after 22.5 days of working, all of the working agenda was completed.
During this plenary session, the legislative body approved seven laws and eight resolutions, contributed ideas on eight draft laws, discussed many important issues, and issued a general Resolution of the session.
A vote of confidence was conducted on 44 officials holding the positions elected or approved by the 15th-tenure National Assembly.
For the first time in the 15th tenure, the Prime Minister, all Deputy Prime Ministers, 21 ministers and heads of sectors directly answered questions related to 21 different fields grouped into four areas, namely general economics – macroeconomics, sectoral economics, socio-culture, and judiciary matters, internal affairs and state audit.
The legislature continued to allow the piloting of a number of specific policies to speed up progress and create maximum facilitation in organising investment in 21 important national projects and key road projects.
In order for the newly-adopted laws and resolutions to soon come to life, the National Assembly assigned its Standing Committee to thoroughly organise the grasp and implementation of these laws and resolutions.
Deputies were required to promptly report to voters nationwide on the results of the plenary session; maintain close contact with and listen to their opinions and aspirations, especially on urgent issues; and actively supervise the organisation and implementation of the Constitution and laws, and the settlement of citizens' petitions, complaints and denunciations.
Vietnam seeks stronger cooperation with Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region
Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung had working sessions with leaders of Emilia-Romagna within the framework of the Vietnam-Italy Year in the northern region of Italy from November 27-28.
The diplomat worked with Vice President of the Emilia-Romagna Regional Council Zamboni Silva, member of the Bologna City Council Anna Lisa Boni, Mayor of Reggio Emilia city Luca Vecchi, and attended many activities to promote economic and cultural cooperation between Vietnam and the region.
At the working sessions with the Italian officials, Hung thanked people of the Emilia-Romagna region and Reggio Emilia city for their solidarity with and support to Vietnam during the past struggle for national independence, freedom and reunification, as well as national reconstruction.
He showed his delight at the development of ties between Vietnam and the Emilia-Romagna region not only in politics but also in economy, with two-way trade accounting for 40% of the total trade turnover between Vietnam and Italy.
Hung expressed his hope that the administration and businesses of the two sides will strengthen cooperation through promotion activities of Vietnam in Emilia-Romagna, while organising visits by officials and businesses of the Italian region to Vietnam and beefing up locality-to-locality partnership.
Leaders of Emilia-Romagna underlined that the solidarity that the administration and people of the region and Vietnam set up in the past is a firm foundation for the two sides to promote specific and practical collaboration in the future, especially amid the dynamic economic development of both sides and the implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the mutual supplementation in the fields of sustainable agriculture, green energy and innovation.
Emilia-Romagna is an important economic locomotive of Italy with strengths in agriculture, automobile manufacturing, education-training, banking, insurance and food production.
In order to bolster cooperation with the region in economy, especially new energy, the Vietnamese Embassy and the Italy-Vietnam Foundation and the Asia Institute under the University of Bologna jointly held a roundtable on the sustainable development of Vietnam and opportunities for Emilia-Romagna in the field of renewable energy and hydrogen.
Addressing the event, Hung highlighted Vietnam’s energy transition policy towards green and sustainable economy and climate change adaptation, especially the commitment that Vietnam made at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26). He stressed the country’s demand for cooperation with international partners in the work, including Italy in general and Emilia-Romagna in particular.
Representatives from leading energy firms of the region introduced models and solutions in renewable energy, including hydrogen, and sought cooperation possibilities with Vietnam in the field.
On the occasion, Hung also had a working session with President of the Chamber of Commerce of Reggio Emilia city, as well as representatives from economic agencies and business associations of the city, and University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE).
The diplomat witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Italy-Vietnam Foundation and the Asia Institute under the University of Bologna on research cooperation.
He also visited the Institute of Musical Studies of Reggio Emilia and Castelnovo ne' Monti, and worked with leaders of Rotary Club in Bologna and Reggio Emilia.
Vietnam, China coast guards conduct joint patrol
The coast guards of Vietnam and China on November 29 began their joint patrol on the waters adjacent to the demarcation line in the Gulf of Tonkin.
This is the second joint patrol this year and the seventh since the Vietnam-China agreement on fishery cooperation in the Gulf of Tonkin expired on June 30, 2020.
The joint patrol stretches across 13 points within 255.5 nautical miles. A range of activities, including talks, inspections and supervisions over fishing boats operating in the waters adjacent to the demarcation line, and raising the awareness of the two countries' fishermen about law observance are held.
On this occasion, the Vietnamese side established an inter-sectoral working group to monitor Vietnamese fishing boats’ observance of legal regulations and the European Commission (EC)’s recommendations on combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Colonel Luong Cao Khai, Vice Commander and Chief of Staff of the Vietnam Coast Guard Region 1, who led the Vietnamese joint patrol force, noted that the event demonstrates close cooperation between law enforcement forces at sea of the two countries in the Gulf of Tonkin, and called it a bright spot in this regard in the region, helping to promote the traditional friendship between the two countries.
The joint patrol will last until December 1.
Vietnam participates in diplomatic charity fair in Hungary
The Vietnamese Embassy in Hungary has attended the annual diplomatic charity fair 2023 organised by the Diplomatic Spouses of Budapest club under the patronage of Szilvia Szijjártó-Nagy, the wife of the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The event was attended by more than 50 foreign embassies, representative agencies in Hungary and thousands of local people and enterprises.
Vietnam's stand attracted a large number of visitors with handicraft products such as paintings, lacquer boxes, products made of ceramic, porcelain, bamboo and wood. Beautiful images of Vietnam and its peace-loving people were also introduced to international friends through videos, pictures, magazines and leaflets.
The event was an opportunity for the Vietnamese Embassy to show solidarity and join hands with the international community to support Hungarian children with special circumstances and incurable diseases.
Besides, it was also an opportunity to enhance exchanges and cooperation among countries while increasing mutual understanding and promoting trade, culture and cuisine.
Vietnam to join important initiatives at COP28: official
Vietnam is set to participate in important initiatives at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in the UAE from November 30 to December 12, said Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Le Cong Thanh.
Talking to the press about the event, Thanh said COP28 is one of the biggest and most important international meetings in 2023. According to the organising committee, more than 130 heads of states and government leaders, along with about 70,000 delegates from 197 countries, non-governmental organisations, businesses, youth groups, and relevant parties will attend the event.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will lead the Vietnamese delegation to COP28.
As part of the conference, the World Climate Action Summit will take place on December 1 - 2, providing a forum for countries to make new and stronger commitments and actions about financial and technological contributions and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction to reach the targets set in the Paris Agreement on climate change, he noted.
He said Vietnam is assessed as highly vulnerable to climate change, and ranks 21st in the world and second in Southeast Asia in terms of GHG emissions. However, it has taken many practical actions to cut GHG emissions and conduct just energy transition.
The country’s experience in climate change adaptation will be useful for others, Thanh continued, adding that its efforts to reduce GHG emissions will also substantially contribute to global efforts in this regard. Vietnam’s active participation and actions will considerably help with the conference’s success and global endeavours in climate change response.
Prior to COP28, many countries have expressed their hope that Vietnam will join initiatives at the event, and it is set to take part in such important initiatives as the Global Cooling Pledge and an initiative on implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
It will also consider joining in some other initiatives like the one on global energy efficiency and renewable energy; the COP28 declaration on climate and health; the group of countries supporting culture-related climate action in the UNFCCC; the declaration on sustainable agriculture, resilient food systems, and climate action; and the gender-responsive just transitions and climate action partnership, according to Thanh.
He said Vietnam’s viewpoint at the conference is that climate change response must be carried out basing on the principle of equity and justice, a global and all people-based approach, comprehensive institutions, efficient and effective policies and laws, science, technology, innovation, maximised internal strength, and promoted international cooperation. Attention to climate change response activities must be as high as that for the reduction of GHG emissions, the Deputy Minister went on.
COP28 will take place in the UAE from November 30 to December 12.
At COP28, Vietnam will not issue new commitments but highlight the need to enhance global solidarity, reach consensus on a new vision and a new mindset to generate implementation breakthroughs, and make a new determination to take drastic and effective actions and adopt comprehensive, innovative and creative global solutions, while centering on people and leaving no countries, communities or people behind.
It will also call on other countries, organisations, and businesses to seriously realise their commitments through concrete and practical actions. Developed countries should take the lead in and increase assistance for developing ones to conduct just energy transition by providing finance, especially non-refundable assistance, transferring technology, and building capacity.
In addition, it is necessary to ensure climate equity and justice, which means ensuring national energy self-sufficiency and security, promoting access to clean energy at reasonable prices for all businesses and people and jobs for workers, boosting finance for adaptation, and soon put the Loss and Damage Fund into operation to step up support for developing countries to cope with climate change, he said.
At COP28, Vietnam will introduce its climate change response efforts. It will also launch a resource mobilisation plan for the implementation of the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), a move aimed at calling on international partners to cooperate with and help the country realise climate change response commitments and invest in energy transition projects to secure green transition and a circular and low-carbon economy, Thanh noted.
Vietnam hopes that COP28 will obtain substantive strides in multiple areas to respond to climate change, including adopting the guideline for implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement to provide a basis for countries to carry out the carbon credit exchange mechanism and the nationally determined contributions.
It also hopes that the issued commitments will be realised through development policies of each country and organisation, and routinely monitored and assessed, and that they will be implemented seriously to help with climate change response around the world and consolidate trust among countries, the Deputy Minister remarked.
Festival honours Central Highlands’ cultural values
A kaleidoscope of activities that honour the cultural values of the Central Highlands are being held during the first culture, sports and tourism festival for ethnic groups in the region that opened in Kon Tum province on November 29.
The event has drawn the participation of nearly 600 artisans, actors, actresses and athletes from the five Central Highlands localities of Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dak Nong and Lam Dong. It is an opportunity for the ethnic groups in the region to meet, promote cultural exchange, and share experience in the preservation and popularisation of their cultural space and festivals.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Public Security General To Lam affirmed that the Party and State have attached much importance to the comprehensive and sustainable development of the Central Highlands, with the Politburo’s issuance of a decree on orientations to branch out the socio-economic development ensure defence-security in the region by 2030 with a vision to 2045.
The Central Highlands is now home to a treasure trove of tangible and intangible cultural heritage items which hold historical values, including Rong house (a variation of stilt-houses unique to the Central Highlands), dai house (long house), lithophone, festivals associated with the “space of gong culture” which was recognised as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2005, he stressed.
Hailing the efforts from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, local authorities, artisans, artists and ethnic people in the region to protect the cultural values, Lam expressed his hope wish that they will continue carrying out the Party and State’s policies on preserving standout cultural traits and historical relic sites, while harmonising economic and tourism development with cultural value preservation.
For his part, Secretary of the Kon Tum province Party Committee Duong Van Trang affirmed that the parties, authorities and people of the Central Highlands have absolute confidence in the Party’s leadership in the national renewal process, adding the region will strengthen solidarity, and capitalise on all opportunities to build the Central Highlands with stability and fast and sustainable development.
The three-day festival features many fascinating events, including introduction of traditional festivals and rituals of the region’s ethnic groups, exhibition of traditional cultural products, and competitions of traditional games such as tug-of-war and stick pushing.
Korean firms present scholarships to Vietnamese students
A total of 115 outstanding students received scholarships worth 1.15 billion VND (about 47,500 USD) from 61 Korean enterprises at the Korean Entrepreneur Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Festival on November 29 in Hanoi.
Addressing the event, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang said that Korean firms' contributions to society in the past year are noble gestures, reflecting the spirit and responsibility for sustainable and inclusive development of the Korean business community in the world and in Vietnam.
She also urged the Korean Chamber of Business in Vietnam (KOCHAM) and Korean enterprises to continue expanding their investment, generating jobs and creating the best conditions for Vietnamese workers working at Korean enterprises.
Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Vietnam Choi Young-sam said that since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992, two-way trade turnover has increased 175 times and the RoK has become the largest foreign investor in the Southeast Asia country.
The festival is an annual event which has been organised by KOCHAM since 2015.
Vietnam, Bangladesh boost bilateral cooperation in various fields
Vietnamese Ambassador to Bangladesh Nguyen Manh Cuong led a working delegation of the embassy and Vietnamese businesses to visit Chittagong city to seek ways to boost bilateral collaboration in various fields.
The port city is an important economic engine of Bangladesh, as every year it generates more than 40% of industrial output and 80% of international trade, and contributes more than 50% of national revenue. Chittagong Port alone currently contributes about 92% of the country's total import and export value.
Receiving the delegation, Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury proposed the two sides coordinate in holding cultural and people-to-people exchanges to contribute to enhancing mutual understanding.
As the coastal city is facing saline intrusion, natural disasters and marine pollution, Chittagong wants to learn from Vietnam’s experiences in addressing these problems, he stated.
Emphasising that Vietnam boasts a coastline of more than 3,200 km with many large port cities, Cuong suggested the two sides research and consider the possibility of establishing twinned relationships between localities of the two countries.
The two countries can learn from each other's experiences in the fields of shipbuilding, shipping, and aquatic product processing and preservation, he said, adding that Vietnam is ready to share its experiences.
Meeting Rear Admiral Mohammad Sohail, Chairman of the Chittagong Port Authority, the Vietnamese diplomat stressed the need for the two countries to intensify cooperation activities between port cities and create favourable conditions for the two business communities to bring their products to each other’s market.
On this occasion, the Vietnamese embassy and the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry organised a policy forum on trade and investment promotion.
Representatives of businesses from the two countries discussed the advantages and difficulties in understanding the market, legal regulations and administrative procedures to implement investment and business cooperation activities in each country. Among the issues discussed, high import taxes in Bangladesh and visas to Vietnam received the attention of many enterprises.
Regarding the visa granting, Ambassador Cuong said that since August this year, Vietnam has issued e-visas to applicants from all countries and territories in the world, including Bangladesh. Therefore, Bangladeshi businesses can carry out related procedures conveniently and quickly.
The embassy is coordinating with relevant agencies to promote the opening of direct air routes between the countries.
After the forum, several business cooperation agreements and contracts between the two countries’ enterprises were signed.
Vietnam, Palestine mark 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations
The Vietnamese Committee for Solidarity with the Palestinian People (VCSPP), in coordination with the Palestinian Embassy in Vietnam and the Vietnam-Palestine Friendship Association in Hanoi held a meeting on November 29 to mark the 35th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Palestine (1988 -2023) and the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the VCSPP Ambassador Nguyen Quang Khai said that Vietnam was one of the first countries in the world that recognised the State of Palestine and lifted relations between the two countries to the ambassador level.
Over the past 35 years, the traditional friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Palestine have been continuously strengthened and developed. Especially, President Yasser Arafat - the greatest leader of the Palestinian people visited Vietnam 10 times.
Ambassador Khai said that the two countries are celebrating the 35th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations and the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people in the context that the conflict in the Gaza Strip has entered its 60th day. He added that Vietnam voted in favor of the United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for protection of Palestinian civilians and compliance with legal and humanitarian obligations in the conflict.
Khai read a message from Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong to the UN Secretary General, the Chairman of the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the President of Palestine, extending deep condolences to the State and people of Palestine and the families of the victims of the conflict. He also expressed deep concern about the tension, and strongly condemned attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. He called for immediate ceasefire, maximum restraint, respect for international humanitarian law and the enforcement of all necessary measures to ensure human lives. Thuong also affirmed Vietnam's solidarity and steadfast stance of supporting the just cause of the Palestinian people in the struggle for their basic national rights.
Meanwhile, a representative of the United Nations in Vietnam, read a solidarity message of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.
Palestinian Ambassador to Vietnam Saadi Salama thanked the Party, State and people of Vietnam for their consistent support for the Palestinian people’s struggle. He affirmed that Palestine will continue to promote cooperation with Vietnam in all fields.
Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference delegation visits Ha Long Bay
A delegation of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) visited the UNESCO-recognised Ha Long Bay and the Quang Ninh Museum in the northern border province of Quang Ninh on November 29 as part of a friendship exchange programme with the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Central Committee.
The Chinese delegation expressed their surprise at the beauty of the bay, and their impressions on the unique architecture of the museum, as well as precious objects and documents on display.
The trip is expected to contribute to strengthening friendship and exchanges between the two sides, consolidating cooperation in all fields, especially tourism, and pushing ahead with the implementation of high-level common perceptions, thus fostering the Vietnam-China relations in a stable, healthy and sustainable manner in the time ahead.
The formation of Ha Long Bay dates back over 500 million years and the limestone that is found in the bay began forming around 340 million years ago. Over time, the bay has gone through countless changes resulting in its today’s magnificent natural landscape. Its core area, which has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage, is 434sq.km and comprises 775 limestone islands and islets.
The Quang Ninh Museum was opened to the public in October 2013. It was designed by Spanish architect Salvador Perez Arroyo who got his inspiration from coal – the province’s signature mineral.
The museum is famous for being covered in 14,000 square metres of tempered glass, which reflects its surroundings and Ha Long Bay.
Second vitamin A supplementation campaign to kick start in early December
Deputy Director of the National Institute of Nutrition Truong Tuyet Mai said Vietnam has achieved significant achievements in improving the nutritional conditions of its people, especially the rate of child malnutrition which has decreased rapidly and sustainably.
According to annual nutrition surveillance data, the rate of underweight malnutrition among children decreased from 33.8% in 2000 to 14.1% in 2015 and only 11.6% in 2020.
Vietnam has also eradicated blindness due to vitamin A deficiency. Meanwhile, public awareness of nutrition and the nutritional knowledge and practices of people have improved.
However, the rate of malnutrition and stunting in children under 5 years old remains high, at 19.6% in 2020, and there are disparities among regions. The rate of overweight and obesity in school-age children (5 - 19 years old) increased from 8.5% in 2010 to 19.0% in 2020.
Dr. Vu Van Tan from the National Institute of Nutrition said that Vitamin A supplementation is essential for the health and comprehensive development of children.
According to Tan, through two annual campaigns to provide vitamin A supplements for children from 6-59 months nationwide, the rate of children receiving vitamin A regularly is maintained at over 98% (equivalent to more than 6 million children). High-dose vitamin A supplementation for children has become an annual activity in more than 11,000 communes and wards nationwide.
All localities nationwide implemented the first campaign this year as planned, giving vitamin A supplements to 2,747,349 children from 6-35 months, and 2,265,727 children from 6-59 months, equivalent to 99.0%, and 99.1% of the total, respectively.
As many as 653,134 children without permanent residence and those at high risk of vitamin A deficiency also received vitamin A supplements in this campaign.
HCMC proposes New Year's Eve fireworks display
The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has just sent a letter to propose the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on the New Year's Eve fireworks display.
To partly bring a joyful and bursting atmosphere to welcome the New Year 2024 as well as serve the entertainment needs of residents and tourists, the Municipal People's Committee proposed the Ministry of Culture and Sports and Tourism to consider and submit to the Prime Minister for approval of New Year's Eve fireworks display at two locations in the city.
In particular, a high-range fireworks display is proposed to be performed in the area of Thu Thiem tunnel in District 2 while a low-range fireworks display is proposed to take place at the Dan Sen Park in District 11 within 15 minutes, starting at midnight on the New Year’s Eve.
Public participation is encouraged to finance the 15-minute fireworks show.
On November 28, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Phan Van Mai signed an official letter on the pilot of activities at Trung Son Night Street in association with tourism development in Binh Chanh District.
The People’s Committee of Binh Chanh District was assigned to proactively collaborate with relevant departments and agencies to grasp opinions and complete the contents of the “Pilot project of the activities of Trung Son Night Street in association with the tourism development in Binh Chanh District”.
Tra Vinh declares coastal landslide emergency
The People’s Committee of the Mekong Delta province of Tra Vinh has recently declared a state of emergency following coastal landslides in Truong Long Hoa commune and embankment collapses in Hiep Thanh commune, Duyen Hai town.
Director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Truong Giang said that Hiep Thanh commune's coastal embankment was built in 2008 to prevent landslides, and protect production, people's lives and the commune’s sea dyke.
However, due to impact of high tides and strong waves, it often collapses and subsides, posing a risk of affecting about 50 hectares of production land and the lives of 30 households.
Meanwhile, landslides occur on around 6.3km of Truong Long Hoa commune’s beach, affecting 35 hectares of residential land and 350 hectares of cultivation land, and threatening the lives and property of 478 households with 1,735 members, and around 130 hectares of coastal forest.
To minimise damage caused by landslides and embankment collapses, leaders of the provincial People's Committee directed the Duyen Hai town People's Committee to install warning signs and disseminate on the mass media the situation of landslides, collapses and subsidence.
Localities were required to arrange forces to closely monitor developments of landslides, collapses, and subsidence, and regularly report to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and at the same time prepare materials, human resources, and vehicles to respond when landslides, collapses, and subsidence threaten the safety of people's lives and property.
Vietnam, Canada bolster cultural exchange to enhance relations
A special cultural event to mark the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-Canada diplomatic relations (1973-2023) has been jointly held by the Vietnamese Embassy in Canada, the Canada-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Group and the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO).
In his opening remarks at the event, Ambassador Pham Vinh Quang highlighted the sound relationship between the two countries in various fields, from diplomacy, politics, investment, trade to cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. He affirmed that Vietnamese people have always considered Canada as a trusted friend and real partner in the Pacific region.
Congressman Shaun Chen, Co-chairman of the Canada-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Group, acknowledged that people-to-people exchange is one of factors to promote the two countries’ ties in all aspects, especially when Canada is implementing the Indo-Pacific Strategy in which the relationship with Vietnam is an important part.
The ties between Vietnam-Canada have seen positive changes since the two sides established a Comprehensive Partnership in 2017. Vietnam has become Canada’s biggest trading partner in ASEAN and a gateway for Canadian enterprises to invest in Southeast Asia as well as the Asia-Pacific region. Meanwhile, Canada has become Vietnam’s second largest partner in Americas. Two-way trade reached seven billion USD in 2022 and the figure is expected to climb to 10 billion USD in 2023.
General Secretary of the Vietnam-Canada Friendship Association under the VUFO Nguyen Nang Khieu said people-to-people diplomacy is one of three pillars of Vietnam’s diplomacy in the new context, contributing to promoting bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Vietnamese community in Canada currently has about 300,000 people and there are about 21,000 Vietnamese students studying in Canada. This is said to be an important resource and social basis that contributes to promoting the development of the two countries' relationship in all fields, especially in cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.
Ensuring employment, social welfare creates motivation for economic development: Official
Ensuring employment and social security for people is an important and regular task and responsibility of both the political and social systems, and always receives due attention of the Party and State, contributing to motivating economic growth, maintaining political stability, and demonstrating Vietnam's commitment to implement the Sustainable Development Goals to 2030.
The statement was made by Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Le Van Thanh at the ministry’s workshop providing information on policies related to labour, employment and social security held in Hanoi on November 28.
According to the official, over the recent years, the National Assembly, the Government, the Prime Minister, ministries and sectors have issued many documents to institutionalise the stances, guidelines and policies of the Party and State on labour, employment and social welfare, including the Employment Law and the Social Insurance Law.
Implementing the programme on making legal documents, the ministry was assigned to preside over drafting a project to build the revised Employment Law and Social Insurance Law in the 2023-2024 period.
Therefore, the workshop was held to widely make known the proposed amendments and new points of policies on labour, employment and social welfare to ministries, sectors, localities and especially international partners, and FDI enterprises, Thanh said.
This was also an opportunity to listen to opinions shared by partners and businesses to continue improving these policies to better meet the requirements of the reality, he added.
Japanese press highlights Vietnamese President’s official visit
Newspapers in Japan on November 28 ran articles on Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong’s official visit, in which they spotlighted the two countries’ upgrade of the bilateral diplomatic ties.
In its article, the Japan Times wrote that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Thuong agreed to elevate the relationship to a “comprehensive strategic partnership”. The move makes Japan one of Vietnam's top-tier partners, along with the US, China, Russia, the Republic of Korea, and India.
It also cited Thuong as saying that the upgraded ties opened a “new chapter” in bilateral relations as the two countries become “even more closely aligned” and contribute to regional peace and stability.
In their joint statement, the two sides vowed to ramp up cooperation to “new heights” and further expand it to “new fronts”, including in the fields of economic security, energy, digital transformation, people-to-people exchanges and regional security, the article wrote.
The Japan News stressed in its article that many countries are approaching Vietnam - which is engaging in “omnidirectional diplomacy” - and Japan is keen to catch up.
Meanwhile, the Jiji Press spotlighted the reception for Thuong and his wife by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
The Emperor expressed his hope that the Vietnamese leader's visit to Japan will help further the longstanding relationship between the two countries, wrote the article.
The Chunichi Shimbun ran an article on the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the two countries’ diplomatic relations.
NA Office delegation learns about Canadian legislative bodies’ operation
A delegation of the National Assembly (NA) Office led by the office's vice chairman Pham Thai Ha paid a working visit to Canada from November 23-28, during which they had working sessions with representatives from some legislative bodies of provinces and states in the country.
The visit is part of activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Canada as well as of the office’s external affairs plan.
The delegation learnt about the operating model of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario at a meeting with the Deputy Clerk and Executive Director of Legislative Services at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario Valerie Quioc Lim.
Previously, the delegation had a working session with Congressman Shaun Chen, Co-chairman of the Canada-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentary Group, and Pam Damoff, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs (consular services).
During the meetings, Ha suggested that the Canadian side continue to promote the diplomatic relationship between the two countries, and support Vietnam’s views on global common issues.
He said he hopes the two Canadian lawmakers will take practical actions to support the Vietnamese community in Canada, which numbers about 300,000 besides 21,000 Vietnamese students studying in the country.
The two sides agreed that the two countries’ parliamentary relations are developing fruitfully with many practical activities. The Vietnamese National Assembly has supported the Canadian parliament's chairmanship of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF) for the 2022-2024 term.
Relations between the two countries are developing in fields from politics, diplomacy, trade and investment to culture, education and people-to-people exchanges. The two sides are also expanding areas of cooperation such as defence, justice and parliament.
NA approves resolution on specific mechanism, policies for road transport projects
The National Assembly (NA) passed on Tuesday afternoon a resolution piloting a number of specific mechanisms and policies on investment of road transport works after 464/467 delegates voted in favour.
Previously, the NA heard the report on explaining and revising the draft resolution presented by the NA Economics Committee’s Chairman Vũ Hồng Thanh.
According to Thanh, many opinions agreed with the need to promulgate the resolution, however, some suggested a review of relevant laws for comprehensive amendments.
In recent times, the State has paid attention to road transport infrastructure and spent large sums on investment, but for many different reasons, implementation has still been limited and could not meet the needs of socio-economic development, while investing in synchronous and modern construction of infrastructure systems is one of the strategic breakthroughs, Thanh told the NA.
To strive to successfully implement the Resolution of the 13th Party Congress, the 5-year socio-economic development plan for the period 2021-25 of the National Assembly, prioritising resources and offering specific policies to accelerate the construction of modern road infrastructure systems are essential.
A number of pilot policies in the draft resolution are inherited from policies that have been applied by the National Assembly in recent years achieving positive results, Thanh said.
However, if the resolution is approved by the NA, the Government has to conduct an assessment and summary of relevant legal regulations to propose amendments, he added.
The Government has established criteria for selecting pilot projects and reviewed and submitted to the National Assembly project lists based on proposals from localities.
In addition, in order for the pilot implementation to be effective and avoid spreading out investment, the committee recommended that the NA consider and decide the pilot projects submitted by the Government and does not supplement the list of pilot projects after the NA votes for approval. The Government is fully responsible for the list of projects proposed to the NA.
Many comments suggested adding principles and criteria on commitments to ensure progress and co-ordination responsibilities of localities in compensation, support and resettlement of projects, and local management capacity.
Explaining the issue, Thanh said that according to current legal regulations, compensation, support and resettlement to implement projects are the responsibility of localities.
The draft resolution stipulates that the provincial People's committees are assigned as the governing body responsible for ensuring the capacity and experience of agencies and organisations designated to implement the projects in accordance with construction law.
Reporting and explaining the ratio of State capital in projects invested in the form of public-private partnership (PPP), Thanh clearly stated that HCM City is a special urban area, so the costs of compensation, support and resettlement are very big.
The committee suggested the NA allow the city People's Council to consider and decide on increasing the proportion of State capital in PPP projects to not more than 70 per cent of the total investment.
However, for projects passing through difficult socio-economic areas, site clearance costs may not be high but due to low vehicle traffic, if applying specific mechanisms as HCM City, they will not be able to guarantee a financial plan for the projects.
There were suggestions to increase the proportion of State capital in the projects to no more than 70 or 80 per cent of the total investment to ensure the participation of private sector in promoting road infrastructure development in difficult areas with low vehicle traffic, Thanh said.
Regarding the agency in charge of investing in road projects, the chairman said that according to the provisions of the Construction Law, the Ministry of Transport evaluates the basic design and total investment of projects, and assigns the locality as the managing agency.
Conference discusses latest updates on healthcare innovation
More than 400 Vietnamese and international healthcare professionals have shared more than 90 research articles and discussed diverse perspectives and innovation initiatives in healthcare at Hoàn Mỹ Scientific and Technical Conference 2023.
The conference, themed "Approach to Quality and Clinical Excellence”, is an annual forum dedicated to creating a collaborative platform for professionals within and beyond the Hoàn Mỹ medical network to share knowledge, exchange of professional experience, and provide updates on the latest developments and breakthroughs in the field of healthcare.
This year's conference featured two key reports: "How to develop leadership capacity in healthcare" presented by Dr. Dilshaad Ali Bin Abas Ali, Group CEO of Hoàn Mỹ, and “Provision to develop an ASEAN Healthcare Center in HCM City" presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tăng Chí Thượng, Director of the HCM City Department of Health.
Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Katariina Korniloff, PhD from the Institute of Rehabilitation at Jamk University in Finland provided an update on the application of digitization in rehabilitation.
In addition, Hoàn Mỹ healthcare professionals presented the conference with a variety of specialized reports and scientific research with updates on progress and innovations in healthcare in various areas.
Remarkably, in the field of internal medicine, there was an update on the self-management education model for type 2 diabetes via a smartphone app, which is being successfully applied by Hoàn Mỹ Cửu Long Hospital. Meanwhile, Hoàn Mỹ Đà Nẵng Hospital updated the conference on the ABC stroke to predict the risk of strokes in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, opening opportunities for disease prevention and treatment for those at risk.
Besides the clinical excellence, the conference shared many quality improvement initiatives focusing on improving patient experience.
Speaking at the conference, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tăng Chí Thượng, director of the HCM City Department of Health, said: "To quickly achieve the goal of becoming the healthcare centre of ASEAN, HCM City’s medical sector is implementing key solutions to develop specialized healthcare and improve the quality of diagnosis and treatment. In particular, an approach to quality and clinical excellence is one of the necessary elements to help the HCM City health sector meet the increasing needs of people for healthcare in terms of quantity and quality.”
He also appreciated Hoàn Mỹ's efforts in advancing training and research initiatives, as well as maintaining a forum for healthcare professionals to share and enhance their understanding of the latest advances in healthcare.
"Beyond approaching and creating standards of excellence according to international standards, Hoàn Mỹ is committed to developing a Center of Excellence for the highest quality patient care,” said Dr. Dilshaad Ali Bin Abas Ali, Group CEO of Hoàn Mỹ Medical Group.
“Besides excellence in professional quality and facilities, Hoàn Mỹ Academy is committed to investing in enhancing the capacity of medical staff and sharing these initiatives with the healthcare sector to help turn HCM City into the healthcare centre of the region," he said.
Việt Nam urges advancement in psychological support for children and adolescents
Việt Nam needs to advance the field of social work, specialising in providing psychological support for children and adolescents.
This involves strengthening psychological services, school counselling, connecting medical services, and improving coordination between agencies to implement mental health care for children and adolescents in the development of a dynamic and child-sensitive national strategy.
Speaking at the event marking World Children's Day 2023 on Tuesday, Nguyễn Thị Hà, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, emphasised that World Children's Day is a time when the world focuses on children and engages in activities for their well-being.
“This is a day of action to mobilise policies and social efforts towards the goal of raising awareness of the most urgent issues that children are facing. What we are doing contributes to providing children with comprehensive development, a good start to ensure the realisation of children's rights, and opportunities for them to develop confidently and step into the future,” she said.
Sharing information about the situation of mental health of Vietnamese children after the COVID-19 pandemic, Hà stated that the project for the mental health care of children in the period 2023-45, especially for orphaned children, is being submitted for approval by the Prime Minister.
In response to World Children's Day 2023 with the theme of improving mental health for children, Hà said that ministries, departments, agencies, organisations and institutions need to show more concern and take more positive actions to enhance mental health for children.
This should focus on enhancing communication, education on issues related to the mental health of children; improving care services; supplementing regulations related to policies supporting mental health care, and social psychology for children.
According to the latest survey on adolescent mental health in Việt Nam, many children and adolescents are struggling with difficulties related to mental health. They lack coping skills, necessary support, and essential services related to social welfare.
About 20 per cent of adolescents have mental health issues, but only 8.4 per cent have accessed supportive or counselling services.
However, only 5.1 per cent of parents recognise their children need help regarding mental health issues.
UNICEF Representative in Việt Nam Rana Flowers stressed that Việt Nam needs to enhance mental health care strategies to support children and adolescents.
“If we've got more than one fifth of adolescents experiencing mental health problems, with very few seeking support services, with the vast majority of parents not recognising that children need help, it's time for action. It is time for the strategy that's been developed. It's time for all the ministries that need to identify their steps to come together,” she said.
Rana Flowers stated that it is essential for all parents, teachers, social workers, and healthcare professionals to take action to eliminate stigma related to mental health, identify children who are at risk of severe mental health challenges, and understand the differences between boys and girls in experiencing and coping with mental health.
“The mental health care strategy should have separate chapters for children and adolescents because they are not the same as adults,” she added.
She encouraged the country to focus on early interventions, implement suitable strategies to build skills that enhance resilience and strengthen mental health for children.
At the event, experts analysed the mental health situation of children and adolescents, emphasising the creation of a safe network, prevention of child abuse, and elimination of risks from schools, social problems and family violence.
Kyoto, Thừa Thiên-Huế boost co-operation programmes
Kyoto Prefecture, Japan and the central province of Thừa Thiên-Huế agreed to boost tourism promotion, education, people to people exchange programmes, heritage conservation, and pedestrian and bicycle zone management in the coming years, deepening the strong ties established between the two localities over past 10 years.
The two urban areas, which inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) after the friendship deal in 2013, joined hands in the development of destinations and human resources on tourism promotion, reserving education programmes for school and university students from Huế in Kyoto, and establishing working team visits between the two localities.
Chairman of Thừa Thiên-Huế People’s Committee Nguyễn Văn Phương stressed that the diplomatic ties between Kyoto and Huế had been well developed over the past decade.
“The province would promote co-operation activities and programmes with Japanese partners from Kyoto in education, heritage preservation, tourism, trade and investment, urban planning and infrastructure,” Phương said.
“The two localities had promoted ties in environment, community and experience sharing in education, and Kyoto had been hosting students and lecturers in different training courses in the 10-year co-operation deal.”
Governor of Kyoto, Takatoshi Nishikawa committed to have more activities programmes supporting Thừa Thiên-Huế Province in trade, education, and tourism.
He expected the friendship deal would be further strengthened for continued growth in the special ties between the two sides.
On the occasion, Mitani Sangyo company from Japan began a survey trip to explore investment opportunities in the province in terms of chemicals, functional food, software and electronic facilities production.
Earlier, the Embassy of Japan in Việt Nam and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) presented six electric trucks to the Huế City People's Committee to use for waste collection, helping the green transformation and carbon and methane reduction of the transport sector.
The central province has been closely cooperating with international organisations and partners in boosting 'green' traffic by encouraging electric vehicles in the Master Plan 2021-30.
An innovative Public Bike-Sharing (PBS) scheme had been launched in Huế city as part of developing a bicycle transportation plan, in cooperation with the International Co-operation Agency of Germany (GIZ) and Vietsoftpro, for 2021-2026 that mobilises private investment for bike-sharing public services.
A ‘Strange Duet’ by artist couple opens in HCM City
A lacquer painting exhibition by Hanoi artist couple Trần Đình Khương and Đoàn Thuý Hạnh, "Song Tấu Lạ (A Strange Duet)," opened in HCM City on November 24.
The exhibition entitled "Song Tấu Lạ" (A Strange Duet) held at An Gallery in District 1 features 80 artworks on two distinct themes.
Khương has 31 works exploring the themes of fishes.
He says it is his fondness for the traditional folk portrayal of the carp as a symbol of luck and happiness that made him choose it as subject for his works.
Hạnh depicts children and flowers that she says are closely intertwined with her childhood memories.
Trương Thị Hiền, a visitor at the exhibition, said she has long been familiar with the works of the two artists, but is very impressed with their techniques and diversity of genres this time.
Khương's paintings are displayed in a series that tightly weaves together stories through the depiction of the carp turning into dragons, which is closely related to the culture of the Vietnamese.
As for the betta fish theme, it is closely connected with the artists' childhood and upbringing, and illustrates the evolving personality traits in each stage of life.
Hạnh has developed various materials to use in her artworks besides demonstrating excellent colour schemes and techniques.
Both graduated from the Hà Nội University of Industrial Fine Arts in 1995.
Khương was previously a member of the Young Artists Club’s executive committee, and is now a member of the Vietnam Fine Arts Association.
Hạnh is a member of the association’s Female Authors Club.
The exhibition, organised by the Bến Thành Art Gallery, will run through December 8.
HCM City museum hosts exhibition of war memorabilia
A collection of photos and memorabilia of Vietnamese soldiers and people during the resistance war is displayed at the HCM City War Remnants Museum.
The exhibition titled “Kỷ Vật Thời Kháng Chiến” (Remembrances of Resistance Days) features 177 photos, documents, and memorabilia belonging to Vietnamese leaders, soldiers and journalists such as water bottles, lighters, hammocks, document bags, and radios.
The exhibits also include medical instruments and tools of military medical corps, and props from art troupes.
Letters sent by people on the frontline and prisoners to their loved ones and families are showcased as well.
Trần Xuân Thảo, director of the museum, said: “The exhibition helps both local and foreign visitors understand Vietnamese patriotism, bravery, humanistic traditions, and love of peace during the war and today.”
He added, “It is a chance to educate young generations about the nation’s patriotic tradition and heroic and indomitable spirit, and national construction and defence.”
Sharing his thoughts on the exhibition, Alan Sedgley, a British visitor, told Việt Nam News that "I was born in 1949, some of these conflicts were on the television screens in ones' youth. ... gradually as the 1960s went on you appreciated more and more that this was a horrendously awful conflict, with terrible things happening. So it's right that this place is here to remind people of what happened, and it has ongoing significance on the status of the world."
The exhibition will run to the end of March. The museum is at 28 Võ Văn Tần Street in District 3.
Master Minh to represent Việt Nam at World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship
Master Lê Tuấn Minh will be Việt Nam's sole representative at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship 2023 in Uzbekistan next month.
Nguyễn Minh Thắng, general secretary of the Việt Nam Chess Federation, said Minh was a strong player in either rapid or blitz chess categories.
He won gold medals at the 31st SEA Games on home soil.
In July, Minh took part in the online 2023 Super United Rapid & Blitz Croatia event where he checkmated super grandmasters such as reigning world champion Magnus Carlsen of Norway.
Minh competed in last year championship but he did not make top three.
The 2023 championships will open on December 25 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, with a US$1 million prize fund.
The Open and Women’s competitions are held separately, with around 180 players in the Open events and 100 players in the Women’s events.
The first Championship on the schedule will be the FIDE World Rapid Chess 2023 which will be played from December 26-28. The Open Rapid Championship will be played in 13 rounds and Women’s Championship will be played in 11 rounds, both in Swiss system.
FIDE World Blitz Chess Championship 2023 will be played over two days December 29-30. The Open Blitz are played over 21 rounds while it is 17 rounds for the Women’s.
The top prize in each Open event is $60,000, with $40,000 for the Women’s tournaments.
In last year’s event in nearby Almaty, Kazakhstan, Carlsen ensured he wouldn’t be without a world title in 2023 by clinching clear first in both the World Rapid and Blitz Championships, to grow his world championship haul to 15 titles: five Classical, six Blitz, and four Rapid.
Vietnam wins big at Asian Finswimming Championship
Vietnamese athletes grabbed 19 gold, 19 silver, and 14 bronze medals at the Asian Finswimming Championship, which was wrapped up in Phuket, Thailand, on November 28.
According to the final results, they won medals in individual and relay events in both the men's and women's seniors and youth disciplines.
Most notably, Vu Dang Nhat Nam broke the Asian record in the men's 400m bi-fins with a time of 3’32”49.
The 18th Asian championship attracted the participation of a total of 370 athletes from 15 countries and territories.
This year saw the Vietnamese team send 41 athletes to compete in the tournament, including SEA Games champions Nguyen Thanh Loc, Vu Dang Nhat Nam, Nguyen Trong Dung, Nguyen Tran San San, Pham Thi Thu, Nguyen Thi Thao, and Le Thi Thanh Van, along with their junior teammates.
Football tournament marks Vietnam – Australia diplomatic ties
A Vietnam-Australia friendship football tournament took place in Hanoi on November 28, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
In his opening speech, Tran The Cuong, president of the Vietnam-Australia Friendship Association’s Hanoi chapter, confirmed that the annual event aimed to further intensify the friendship and mutual understanding that exists between people of the two countries.
The tournament saw four teams competing, with matches drawing plenty of spectators immediately after the opening ceremony.
After putting on an outstanding display in their games, the Vietnam-Australia School team won first prize.
Second prize went to a team from the Australian Embassy in Vietnam, whilst a team from Hanoi’s Nam Tu Liem district came third.
Forum debates issues in building rule-of-law socialist state
An annual legal forum on building and perfecting a rule-of-law socialist state in new period took place in Hanoi on November 29.
Jointly organised by the Ministry of Justice and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the event was part of the events in the framework of the EU Justice and Legal Empowerment Programme (EU JULE) in Vietnam funded by the UNDP.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Justice Nguyen Khanh Ngoc said building and perfecting a rule-of-law socialist state of the people, by the people, and for the people led by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) is the central task of reforming the political system in the process of comprehensive renovation of the country, deep and effective international integration, and sustainable socio-economic development.
This is a consistent policy of the Vietnamese Party and State in recent years, he added.
The Resolution on continuing to build and complete the Vietnamese socialist rule-of-law state in the new period issued in November last year is a basis for creating unity in awareness and actions of all relevant agencies, organisations, and individuals to continue improving the effectiveness and efficiency of implementing assigned responsibilities and tasks, he said.
In addition to promoting the roles and responsibilities of agencies, organisations, and each civil servant and public employee, the assistance and support of international friends is also an important factor contributing to creating more strength and resources for Vietnam to achieve expected results in its efforts to build and perfect a socialist rule-of-law state, the official said.
Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam, spoke highly of Vietnam's efforts in building institutions, and building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state, saying that the UNDP Vietnam will continue to support the country in building capacity and strengthening institutions, equal access to justice, and promoting gender equality and safe migration.
Delegates focused their discussion on the role and responsibility of the Government in building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state in the new period, the legal dissemination and education and organising law enforcement to meet the requirements of the work.
As the most important event of the Legal Partnership Group for International Legal Cooperation under the Ministry of Justice in the year, the forum updated and shared information about the requirements and priority tasks of Vietnamese agencies and organisations in the process of building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state, thus creating a premise and basis for promoting cooperative relationships and opening up new cooperation opportunities in the fields discussed at the forum.
Installing travel tracking devices on 2-wheeled motor vehicles seems infeasible
Related experts have voiced their opinion on the content about attaching a travel tracking device onto a 2-wheeled motor vehicle in the Draft Law on Road Traffic Safety and Order.
The developer team for the Draft Law on Road and Traffic Safety and Order explained that the data collected from travel tracking devices will be used by the Traffic Command Center, managed by the Traffic Police, to control traffic, handle traffic accidents and law violations, and prevent crimes.
However, discussing the necessity as well as feasibility of this proposal, Chairman Nguyen Van Quyen of the Vietnam Automobile Transport Association (VATA) said that the country now has over 6 million cars and nearly 73 million two-wheeled motor vehicles valid for traveling. Hence, when approved, this content will create a vast influence on the community, which means a careful evaluation of possible effects stemming from this proposal.
Right now, only about 1 million cars have such a travel tracking device installed; yet data integration and use has not been as effective as expected. Those data have not helped much in stopping traffic law violations. Certain passenger vehicles have speeded more than 6,000 times a month without any strict punishment at all.
Moreover, if all devices from 73 million motorbikes and scooters sent data to the Center, it would be a huge workload for the server system there to manage, operate, and exploit those data. Therefore, Chairman Quyen suggested an elimination of that proposal.
From the perspective of the Advisory Group of the Prime Minister to direct ministries and state agencies to ensure traffic safety and order, Khuat Viet Hung – Vice Chairman of the National Traffic Safety Committee – commented that at present, it is mandatory to install a travel tracking device on all vehicles running for a transport business.
It is possible to collect road maintenance fee according to the mileage, the traffic congestion prevention fee (if any) according to the mileage and travel time in the affected area, and the parking fee at public space on vehicles with such a device.
Private vehicles, whether they are cars or two-wheeled motor ones, should be encouraged to do the same. In reality, no countries in the world have ever forced the attachment of a travel tracking device to a private vehicle. Vice Chairman Hung further stated that when done synchronously, all applicable measures to control traffic safety and order will prove their effectiveness.
Other experts agreed that this proposal may have huge effects on society, and is in need of more careful consideration so as to ensure its feasibility and eliminate any waste for vehicle owners. At present, the price of a travel tracking device is VND3.5 million, which is a large sum to low-income people and an unwanted financial burden to many families.
That is not to mention such an urgent need will require importing devices from other nations, or the concern over potential privacy violation.
Right now, the Draft Law on Road and Traffic Safety and Order is being developed. All experts and citizens hope that the developer team listen and consider feedback carefully to ensure that the content of the Law is truly essential and feasible to avoid unnecessary disruption to people’s life.
Speed limit of 4-lane expressways with divergent investment to rise to 90km/h
The Ministry of Transport asked relevant units to promptly review four-lane expressways with divergent construction investment to increase the maximum speed to 90 kilometers per hour.
Particularly, the Ministry of Transport required the Directorate for Road of Vietnam, Vietnam Expressway Bureau, Transport Construction Investment Management Authority and project management boards to promptly review four-lane expressways with divergent construction investment for automobiles, comprising two lanes on each side, to increase their speed limit to 90 kilometers per hour.
According to the Ministry of Transport, some expressways with four-lane divergent construction investment for automobiles, comprising intermittent emergency stopping lanes have been invested and put into operation with a maximum speed of 80 kilometers per hour.
Based on standards for expressways, traffic design and regulations in the divergent construction investment phase announced by the Vietnam Directorate for Road in June 2022, the four-lane expressways allow a maximum speed of up to 90 kilometers per hour.
In order to ensure the synchronization of traffic management, enhance investment effectiveness and promote socio-economic development, the Ministry of Transport assigned the units mentioned above to review the projects that have been exploited or are ready to operate towards lifting the speed limit to 90 kilometers per hour.
Under the requirements of the Ministry of Transport, the relevant units have to report the review results before December 31, 2023.
After receiving the reports, the Ministry of Transport will consider directing the investors of expressways with divergent construction investments to adjust the transport plans or essential technical solutions and traffic signs to meet the requirements of the speed limit increase as the projects are put into exploitation.
The Ministry of Transport said that the expressway construction and investment projects have been completed and put into operation with a speed limit of 60-80 kilometers an hour comprising expressway sections of Cao Bo - Mai Son, Trung Luong - My Thuan, Mai Son – National Highway 45 - Nghi Son, Nha Trang - Cam Lam and Vinh Hao - Phan Thiet.
Deputy PM suggests ANZ Group invest in green transition in Vietnam
Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai suggested Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) invest in high-tech, green transition, clean energy and renewable energy in Vietnam at a reception for its Chief Executive Officer Shayne Elliott in Hanoi on November 29.
ANZ was one of the first foreign banks licensed to operate in Vietnam (in 1993) and also the first bank to install ATMs in the country (in 2000), according to the official.
Lauding ANZ Vietnam’s effective operation, Khai said he believes that with its great financial potential and experience, ANZ Vietnam will contribute more to boosting the banking sector in particular and socio-economic development in Vietnam in general.
He also suggested the bank attract reputable investors to Vietnam, and share its governance experience with the Vietnamese banking system.
The Deputy PM emphasised that the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Australia and New Zealand is developing fruitfully in many fields, in which economic-trade-financial cooperation has made outstanding strides.
Vietnam has recently welcomed high-ranking leaders of the two countries on official visits, during which the sides agreed to facilitate trade and investment activities of businesses, including those in the financial and banking sector, he continued.
Khai called on ANZ to carry out investment activities in line with joint statements issued by the leaders, thus contributing to the strategic partnership between Vietnam and the two countries.
He suggested the bank to share its experience in governance and digital transformation in the banking sector, foreign exchange services, trade finance, cash flow management, and helping businesses access loans at low cost.
The host also suggested ANZ continue researching and providing capital for green growth and green finance to accompany Vietnam in achieving its goals in these realms, and further contribute to cooperation in the Mekong sub-region.
For his part, Elliott affirmed that Vietnam is one of ANZ's important markets with development potential, noting the bank is supporting many high-tech manufacturers in Vietnam.
Many investors are interested in green transformation in Vietnam, the ANZ CEO said, expressing his hope to contribute to this process.
ANZ is also ready to support major Vietnamese enterprises to conquer the world market, he affirmed.
Microsoft Office specialist, graphic design contests launched in Vietnam
The Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship – Viettel (MOSWC-Viettel) and the Adobe Certified Professional World Championship (ACPWC) 2024 were jointly launched in Vietnam by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union Central Committee, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, and IIG Vietnam on November 29.
The contests are open for students aged 13-22 years old nationwide. Participants will have the opportunity to access international informatics and graphic design assessment standards and to compete with contestants all over the world.
This year is the first time the contestants will demonstrate their skills using Microsoft 2019 and Microsoft 365 Apps at MOSWC instead of Microsoft 2016 and Microsoft 2019 as in previous years.
Six outstanding candidates from the national final round will participate in the world final round, which will be organised in California, the US, in July next year.
Meanwhile, three national winners of ACPWC will compete at the world championship in the US.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, Nguyen Minh Triet, Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh Youth Union Central Committee, praised the achievements of contestants at MOSWC-Viettel and ACPWC 2023, especially the attainment of the Vietnamese team in the world final round in the US.
Triet expressed his belief that with many achievements over the past years, Vietnamese representatives will continue to promote the learning movement and improve digital capabilities for the young generation of Vietnam.
Vietnam has won four gold, four silver, and 12 bronze medals after 14 years of joining MOSWC, as well as one bronze medal and two times winning the Most Voted Audience Award at ACPWC after six years.
Forum debates issues in building rule-of-law socialist state
An annual legal forum on building and perfecting a rule-of-law socialist state in new period took place in Hanoi on November 29.
Jointly organised by the Ministry of Justice and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the event was part of the events in the framework of the EU Justice and Legal Empowerment Programme (EU JULE) in Vietnam funded by the UNDP.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Justice Nguyen Khanh Ngoc said building and perfecting a rule-of-law socialist state of the people, by the people, and for the people led by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) is the central task of reforming the political system in the process of comprehensive renovation of the country, deep and effective international integration, and sustainable socio-economic development.
This is a consistent policy of the Vietnamese Party and State in recent years, he added.
The Resolution on continuing to build and complete the Vietnamese socialist rule-of-law state in the new period issued in November last year is a basis for creating unity in awareness and actions of all relevant agencies, organisations, and individuals to continue improving the effectiveness and efficiency of implementing assigned responsibilities and tasks, he said.
In addition to promoting the roles and responsibilities of agencies, organisations, and each civil servant and public employee, the assistance and support of international friends is also an important factor contributing to creating more strength and resources for Vietnam to achieve expected results in its efforts to build and perfect a socialist rule-of-law state, the official said.
Ramla Khalidi, UNDP Resident Representative in Vietnam, spoke highly of Vietnam's efforts in building institutions, and building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state, saying that the UNDP Vietnam will continue to support the country in building capacity and strengthening institutions, equal access to justice, and promoting gender equality and safe migration.
Delegates focused their discussion on the role and responsibility of the Government in building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state in the new period, the legal dissemination and education and organising law enforcement to meet the requirements of the work.
As the most important event of the Legal Partnership Group for International Legal Cooperation under the Ministry of Justice in the year, the forum updated and shared information about the requirements and priority tasks of Vietnamese agencies and organisations in the process of building and perfecting a socialist rule-of-law state, thus creating a premise and basis for promoting cooperative relationships and opening up new cooperation opportunities in the fields discussed at the forum.
Summit seeks advice for Hanoi’s digital transformation, smart city building
The Vietnam-Asia Smart City Summit 2023, themed “Data mining – Building smart cities for sustainable development”, opened in Hanoi on November 29, discussing the capital’s related process and challenges.
Co-organised by the municipal Department of Information and Communications and Vietnam Software & IT services (VINASA), the two-day summit introduces Hanoi’s digital transformation and smart city development programme by 2025, with a vision towards 2030. It also seeks input from experts and businesses regarding the work and promotes business partnership between local IT enterprises and their foreign counterparts.
Toward the goals, three panel sessions are set to mull over the topics of government-citizen-businesses, technology-data-connectivity, and collaboration-development.
In his opening speech, Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh stated that the sustainable smart city model that the capital aspires to achieve will provide a high-quality living environment of convenience, safety, and friendliness for all residents. The city aims to establish an administration that serves the development of organisations and businesses in a dynamic economy, with an increasing emphasis on the digital economy.
Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Huy Dung stressed that the development of smart cities at the local level must be closely integrated with the digital transformation process. The two should be inseparable and non-duplicative, and place people at the centre.
Chairman of VINASA Truong Gia Binh said Hanoi needs distinctive and outstanding mechanisms to attract talents in Vietnam and abroad, while taking the lead in IT training initiatives regarding both hardware and software.
Man injured in paragliding accident in Lai Chau
A man has been injured while learning paragliding in the northern mountainous province of Lai Chau.
Ngo Van Doi learns paragliding in the northern mountainous province of Lai Chau on November 28.
The accident occurred at around 8 pm on Tuesday. Pilot Ngo Van Doi fell into a forest in Lai Chau’s Tan Uyen District when being trained. Following the Hanoi City Paragliding Association’s call for help, Tan Uyen police sent rescue services.
The man falls into a forest in Lai Chau’s Tan Uyen District.
After a five-hour search, the police found him at 1.25am on November 29 in the forest in Hua Pau Village some seven kilometres from Tan Uyen Town.
He suffered from profuse bleeding due to injuries to his face.
Doi was then taken to Tan Uyen District’s Medical Centre. His health has seen gradual improvement.
Danang issues storm warnings to vessels
The Danang City Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue has called on boats operating in local waters to seek shelter as strong winds and high waves are approaching.
The Nam Phat cargo ship is half sunk after being hit by high waves off Quang Nam Province on November 28.
According to the National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting, a strong cold spell is hitting northern localities. It will expand to the central region on Thursday evening. Danang City will be affected by strong winds from Friday.
From Thursday evening, the sea area around the Paracel Islands will see strong winds with waves rising to 4-6 metres high. Danang’s coastal waters will see waves rising up to 2-4 metres from Friday.
The committee has asked concerned agencies to inform and call on all boats operating in local waters to seek shelter during the bad weather.
The central coastal area has seen rough seas over the past few days. On November 28, the Nam Phat cargo ship was half sunk after being hit by high waves off Quang Nam Province. Luckily rescue forces were able to save 11 crew members and 1,500 tonnes of steel on the vessel.
Broken fishing boat off Binh Thuan rescued
A fishing board with 14 people onboard which broke down off the southern province of Binh Thuan has been rescued.
According to the Binh Thuan Provincial Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue, the boat had an accident some 140 nautical miles northeast of Phu Quy Island at 3 am on November 26. At that time, the weather was unfavourable with strong winds and rough seas.
After receiving the call for help from Captain Vo Van Vuong, the committee called concerned agencies and vessels operating around areas for the rescue.
At 2 pm on Wednesday, a fishing boat from Binh Dinh spotted the broken boat and helped tow it to Cam Ranh Port.
All of the fishermen on the boat are in stable health.
Source: VNA/SGT/VNS/VOV/Dtinews/SGGP/VGP/Hanoitimes
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