A ship from the Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (Vietnam MRCC) on October 10 provided first aid to a critically-ill Philippine fisherman on a Palau-flagged vessel off the coast of the southern province of Ba Ria – Vung Tau before bringing him to shore for further treatment.

Cruz Jesus, born in 1972, suffered severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and a sudden rise in blood pressure while his SEA HERMES vessel was en route from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to China.

The captain of the vessel then altered the course to Vung Tau and sent out a request for urgent assistance.

The Vietnam MRCC’s ship was dispatched to the site to provide first aid for the fisherman before bringing him onshore and handing him over to competent authorities and representatives from the ship owner.

He was then transferred to the France – Vietnam Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for further treatment./.

Chinese Premier’s Vietnam visit helps accelerate building of community with shared future: expert

The official visit to Vietnam from October 12-14 by Premier Li Qiang not only continues the high-level exchanges between China and Vietnam, but also marks a new starting point for future cooperation between the two countries, according to journalist Qiao Jun, an expert on Vietnam at China Media Group (CMG).

Li’s trip takes place in the context that China and Vietnam are to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2025, and the building of a Vietnam-China community with a shared future which carries strategic significance will be elevated to a new level, Qiao said.

It is of important significance in further deepening the building of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future, as this is the first visit to Vietnam by the premier since he assumed office in March 2023.

During his stay in Hanoi, Li will meet with Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, hold talks with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and meet with National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

The two sides will exchange views on many important issues, with focus on implementing the key common perceptions achieved by the highest leaders of the two countries and further promoting the construction of the Vietnam-China community with a shared future.

Journalist Qiao said that during this visit, railway cooperation may remain a key focus, with the two sides promoting collaboration to soon implement railway projects such as Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong, Lang Son – Hanoi, and Mong Cai – Ha Long – Hanoi. For Vietnam, the completion of these projects will significantly improve domestic transportation infrastructure, reduce logistics costs, boost trade with China, and provide strong momentum for the development of Vietnam's economy.

Additionally, the two sides will actively discuss and expand cooperation and connectivity between the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative and the ‘Two Corridors, One Belt’ framework; accelerate the establishment of 'hard connectivity' through railways, roads, and border gates, while enhancing 'soft connectivity' through smart customs, along with building a stable and secure industrial and supply chains./.

PM returns home from successful ASEAN Summits in Laos

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his entourage arrived in Hanoi on October 11, concluding their four-day working trip to attend the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and related meetings in Vientiane, Laos.

Through around 60 multilateral and bilateral activities, the Vietnamese delegation, led by PM Chinh, delivered crucial messages about ASEAN and its future and affirmed Vietnam’s role and position in the bloc. They supported Laos in its successful chairmanship of ASEAN for 2024, further fostering the special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

The delegation engaged in over 20 key activities, including ASEAN summits, ASEAN’s summits with partners, thematic dialogues and discussions.

On the occasion, PM Chinh held bilateral meetings with ASEAN leaders and partners, and joined his counterparts from Laos and Cambodia in initiatives aimed at bolstering solidarity and cooperation among the three countries.

Notably, the Vietnamese PM held meetings with Laos' top leaders, including the Party General Secretary and President, the Prime Minister, and the President of the National Assembly to discuss ways further nurturing the bilateral great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation.

The working trip yielded comprehensive results that align with Vietnam’s foreign policy as outlined in the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Politburo’s conclusion on orientations to ASEAN engagement through 2030. It further underscored Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralism of external ties, and increased trust and foster deeper, more practical and effective partnerships for peace, cooperation and development in each country, the region, and the world.

Deputy PM receives ICISE founders, scientists

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha hosted a reception on October 11 for Professors Tran Thanh Van and Le Minh Ngoc – the founders of the International Centre for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE) and a group of its scientists and researchers.

At the meeting, the Deputy PM held that the ICISE has attracted international scientists to Vietnam, serving as a platform for sharing expertise, identifying scientific challenges, and developing a new generation of researchers. It provides young Vietnamese scientists with opportunities to learn, expand international cooperation in basic and applied research, and engage with businesses.

The effort to make science-technology a cornerstone of national development needs specific starting points like the ICISE, he noted

Ha said he hopes the centre would become a hub for talent to study foundational technology, green technology, and renewable energy, to initiate research in digital transformation and artificial intelligence, and to control the negative aspects of technology.

For his part, Professor Van said that the ICISE was founded to promote scientific and educational growth, support young Vietnamese students and scientists in integrating into the global scientific community, and provide opportunities for them to boost capacity by participating in meetings and idea exchanges with highly qualified international peers.

Since its inauguration in the coastal city of Quy Nhon in the central province of Binh Dinh on August 12, 2013, the centre has hosted nearly 150 high-caliber international scientific seminars and 45 specialised science schools, drawing approximately 10,000 scientists from 35 countries and territories.

Since 2017, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Finance, and the Binh Dinh People’s Committee have allocated around 10 billion VND (402,902 USD) annually to support the ICISE and the Explorascience Quy Nhon centre. The National Foundation for Science and Technology Development has also approved funding for four basic research projects at the ICISE, with a total budget of 3 billion VND./.

Exhibition tells stories of old Hanoi

A photo exhibition themed “Hanoi mot thoi de nho” (Hanoi – A time to remember) opened in the city on October 10, featuring works by British photographer Andy Soloman and his Vietnamese colleague Le Bich who share the great love for the city.

Eighty-six black-and-white photos taken from 1992 to 2012 spotlight the life of Hanoi residents in the Doi Moi (Renewal) period through major economic changes.

Addressing the opening, Tran Thuy Lan, Vice Chairwoman of the Management Board of Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter, said that the event, part of the activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the capital’s Liberation Day, shows the love of a person born and brought up in the city, witnessing many changes of the city, as well as a British friend who keeps the city in his heart.

The exhibition gives visitors a nostalgic and emotional insight into the city life and the changes in Hanoi through the ages, with images of daily activities such as the joy of children in Mid-Autumn Festival or the happy eyes of workers, Lan said.

Soloman, who first came to Hanoi in October 1992 and stayed in the city for seven years, said that he fell in love with the beautiful city right at first sight.

Everywhere he visited in the city, he received warm welcome with hospitality and kindness that amazed him, the man said, expressing his hope that his photos will evoke good memories and strong emotions among viewers.

He also wished to find old friends through the exhibition to take their photos once again.

Meanwhile, Bich said that although Hanoi has changed a lot, he does not forget the old beauty, the quintessence, and identity of the city.

He said he hopes the photos will be a low note in the song on Hanoi, like a ray of afternoon sunlight brightening up the ancient temple gates that have faded with time, like a yellow daisy in the flower garden by the lake when autumn comes, allowing viewers to love and cherish more what Hanoi had and is having today.

The exhibition will last until October 31./.

Vietnam observes International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development coordinated with the United Nations (UN) representative agencies in Vietnam and the Thua Thien-Hue provincial People's Committee on October 11 held a ceremony in response to the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and ASEAN Day for Disaster Management in Hue city.

Under the theme "Empowering the next generation for a resilient future", the 2024 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction highlights the role of education in protecting and empowering youth for a disaster-free future.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Hoang Hiep said that young people need to have proper awareness, skills, and knowledge so as to ensure their own safety from dangers caused by natural disasters. Once they can protect themselves, they can help others.

Regarding international cooperation in this field, he said the two main priorities are enhancing community resilience, especially in vulnerable areas, and strengthening infrastructure, with special attention to forecasting and early warning systems.

He urged UN agencies, development organisations, and funds to help countries access financial resources to develop programmes and projects enhancing community resilience.

The official said children are among the most vulnerable groups to natural disasters. Therefore, appropriate approaches based on their ages and awareness are needed.

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed by the UN every year on October 13. It is dedicated to fostering awareness of disasters and their impact on living beings as well as to praising individuals and groups working in the field of natural disaster prevention and control.

The day is also chosen as ASEAN Day for Disaster Management, aiming to attract the attention of the ASEAN community in this regard and call for international cooperation to join hands to build safe communities and areas that are resilient to natural disasters./.

Malaysia wants to cooperate with Vietnam in emerging industries: PM Anwar

Malaysia is aiming to strengthen economic cooperation with Vietnam by exploring opportunities for private sector involvement in emerging industries, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated.

“Malaysia is keen to explore opportunities for private sector involvement in emerging value chains, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV), electronics, semiconductor, and advanced materials industries," the PM said on October 10 as cited by the national news agency Bernama.

He emphasised that Vietnam's rapid industrial growth presents significant potential for partnerships that would benefit both economies, particularly as global demand for advanced technologies rises.

Earlier, at a meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane, Laos, Anwar said Malaysia is ready to assist Vietnam in enhancing its fisheries monitoring, control and law enforcement system by sharing best practices.

The two PMs also discussed other areas of cooperation, including the halal industry as Malaysia is a global leader in halal certification.

Vietnam is Malaysia's 12th largest trading partner globally and its fourth-largest trading partner in the ASEAN, after Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

In July, the two countries agreed to strive for a bilateral trade turnover target of 18 billion USD as soon as possible by creating favourable conditions for products
and services, including halal goods, to enter the consumer markets of both nations./.

Women's football team prepares for international friendly tournament in China

The Vietnamese women’s national team is taking a training programme at the Vietnam Youth Football Training Centre to prepare for the upcoming international friendly tournament in China at the end of October 2024, according to the the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF).

The training session started on October 9 and will last nearly two weeks before the team leaves for China on October 21.

The team is scheduled to play a friendly match with the hosts China on October 23 and another with Uzbekistan on October 29. The two important friendly matches will serve as a warm-up for the 2025 season, where the Vietnamese squad will participate in three major competitions: the Asian Cup qualifiers, the Southeast Asian Women’s Championship, and the 33rd SEA Games.

Head coach Mai Duc Chung said there are many young players summoned to prepare for important tournaments in 2025. The young players will be provided with opportunities to learn, improve, and play with senior ones on the field, Chung said.

The race for a ticket to the World Cup is very difficult, and the upcoming tournaments are not easy either.

Direct rivals of the Vietnamese women's football team are investing heavily, even in Southeast Asia such as the Philippines and Singapore. In Asia, besides competitors like Japan, the Republic of Korea (RoK), China, Australia, Vietnam now have to compete with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Uzbekistan, and Iran.

Chung said the Vietnamese women's team needs young players to work alongside their seniors to improve their skills. The upcoming matches will help the Vietnamese women's team gain experience./.

Binh Thuan ready for EC’s fifth IUU fishing inspection

The People’s Committee of the south-central coastal province of Binh Thuan on October 10 held a meeting to review efforts in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the locality, and to discuss necessary preparations for the European Commission (EC)'s upcoming fifth inspection.

According to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), relevant agencies and localities in Binh Thuan continue to implement a series of solutions in the work, combining awareness-raising campaigns and calling on fishing boat owners to sign commitment documents not to violate foreign waters.

No local fishing vessels or fishermen have been detained by foreign authorities for violations since January 2023.

According to Vice Director of the department Nguyen Van Chien, vessel monitoring systems (VMS) have been installed on all of the 1,943 fishing vessels from 15 metres in length in the locality.

So far, as many as 2,309 “three-no's” vessels (no registrations, no checks, no licences) or 91.2% of the total fishing boats in Binh Thuan have registered to update their data on the national fisheries database (Vnfishbase).

The electronic catch documentation and traceability (eCDT) system has been applied rigorously, with 4,402 entries of fishing vessels reporting their arrival and departure at ports through the system in September.

Over the past time, the provincial Department of Fisheries have worked around the clock to supervise, detect, and handle in a timely way fishing boats staying uncontacted and crossing the fishing boundaries.

Vice Chairman of the provincial People's Committee Nguyen Hong Hai urged relevant units to intensify their efforts in combating IUU fishing in the locality, contributing to the country’s attempt to have the EC’s “yellow card” warning against Vietnamese seafood lifted soon.

He also asked for prompt registration for “three-no's” fishing ships, those with expired and without licenses. /.

Book exhibition marks 70th Hanoi’s Liberation Day anniversary

A book exhibition celebrating the 70th anniversary of Hanoi’s Liberation Day (October 10, 1954-2024) is underway at the National Library of Vietnam in the capital city.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Thanh Lam said the exhibition is a meaningful activity, aiming to educate on the revolutionary traditions, patriotism, national solidarity, and pride in the millennium-old heroic capital of time-honoured culture.

He expressed his belief that it will help readers access a rich source of knowledge to serve their work, study, and research.

The event, opened on October 9, aims to highlight the historical significance of the capital’s Liberation Day in the revolutionary struggle for national independence and socialism, while affirming that the clear-sighted leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh, as well as the great national solidarity, is the decisive factor in all victories of the Vietnamese revolution.

It showcases more than 500 rare documents along with 2,850 valuable book titles and collections by Vietnamese and foreign authors, including 205 titles about Hanoi and its Liberation Day.

Another highlight of the event is an outdoor area displaying two models themed “Viet Bac – the Capital of the Resistance War” from the Thai Nguyen University Publishing House and “Hanoi – the Capital for Peace” from the Hanoi Publishing House.

Publishers and distributors also host a variety of events, including panel discussions, book introduction, exchanges with authors, and music performances. They also offer a range of attractive discounts for visitors.

The exhibition is oganised by the Party Central Committee's Commision for Information and Education, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Hanoi People's Committee, and the Vietnam Publishers' Association. It will run until October 13./.

VNA publishing house launches photo books on country's beauty, late President

The Vietnam News Agency Publishing House recently launched two photo books featuring the beauty of the Vietnamese people as well as sea and islands and President Ho Chi Minh’s contributions to the struggle for national independence and reunification to mark the 70th anniversary of the capital city’s Liberation Day (October 10).

Entitled “Homeland on the Ocean’s Edge” with 153 photos from the national art photo contest, one book introduces the potential of the Vietnamese sea and islands and their important role in the national construction and defence. The art works instill a sense of sea and island sovereignty among the Vietnamese citizens.

Meanwhile, the “Uncle Ho with Ba Dinh” spotlights the historic moment when the President read the Declaration of Independence, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (now the Socialist Republic of Vientam), at Hanoi’s Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945. It brings back the heroic and vibrant atmosphere on the first day of independence and displays the sentiments of locals in Ba Dinh district and the late leader.

The two books boost patriotism, solidarity, and responsible among every citizen in building, protecting, and developing the nation. They are valuable resources that spread the spirit of patriotism to people from all walks of life, particularly the younger generation, instilling their pride of the past and confidence in the future./.

Cambodia continues to support storm, flood victims in Vietnam

A ceremony was held by the Vietnamese Embassy in Cambodia on October 10 to receive donations from Cambodian organisations and individuals to support Vietnamese people severely impacted by recent natural disasters.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia Nguyen Huy Tang received a donation of 1,700 USD from Chea Sam Eng and Kim Neng, representatives of the Cambodians who studied in Vietnam in the early 1980s.

In their remarks, Chea Sam Eng and Kim Neng expressed their deep sympathy on the losses endured by Vietnamese people due to Typhoon Yagi and subsequent floods. They said their support is modest but symbolises the heartfelt solidarity between the two nations.

Both donors voiced their belief that the Vietnamese people will overcome these challenges and continue their path to prosperity.

Ambassador Tang expressed his sincere gratitude for the gesture, highlighting the strong friendship between Vietnam and Cambodia, which have stood by each other in times of adversity.

The embassy pledged to promptly deliver the donations to Vietnam to help those affected by the disasters in a timely manner.

In September, Typhoon Yagi caused severe damage across Vietnam’s northern region. To help address the aftermath, the Vietnamese Embassy in Cambodia launched a fundraising campaign, successfully raising over 40,000 USD from the Vietnamese community in the neighbouring country. This collective effort exemplifies the enduring spirit of solidarity among Vietnamese communities both at home and abroad./.

Thailand-Vietnam Cultural Street Gate sets new symbol of bilateral ties

After nearly a year of construction, the Thailand-Vietnam Cultural Street Gate was inaugurated in the Thai northeastern province of Nakhon Phanom on October 10 to the welcome of over 1,000 Vietnamese expatriates from across Thailand.

Speaking at the event, Acting Governor of Nakhon Phanom province Ranida Laungthitisakul hailed the gate as a new cultural landmark, embodying the unique identities, shared history and strong relationship between Thailand and Vietnam.

She expressed confidence that the structure will become a major tourist attraction in the locality, where Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh used to stay for a period of time nearly 100 years ago during his journey to seek way for national salvation.

Vice Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Nguyen Manh Dong praised efforts by the Vietnamese community in Nakhon Phanom in building the gate, which reflects their sentiment towards the homeland as well as their contribution to the local culture. The gate, together with the Ho Chi Minh-linked relic sites in the northeast of Thailand, is not only a symbol of the two countries' friendship but also where their rich culures converge and generate new values.

Talking to the Vietnam News Agency, Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Pham Viet Hung hoped that the gate will not only contribute to the province's overall development but also help to foster cultural exchanges between the two nations.

The gate, whose construction started on December 11, 2023, was funded with about 490,000 THB (14,000 USD) by the Nakhon Phanom city budget. Standing at 11.8 metres in width and 11.4 meters in height, it serves as a symbol of Thamrong Prasit road. It is expected to facilitate economic development along the route and in nearby areas while boosting tourism in Nakhon Phanom./.

Vietnam, India seek further development through sci-tech cooperation

Vietnamese Ambassador to India Nguyen Thanh Hai and Secretary of the Indian Department of Science and Technology Prof. Abhay Karandikar discussed ways to boost science and technology cooperation between the two countries in New Delhi on October 9.

Hai underscored the robust bond between the two nations, highlighting the immense trust exemplified by recent high-level engagements, including Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s state visit to India and the meeting between Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and Indian PM Narendra Modi in the US.

He expressed hope that this cooperation will deepen and expand across various sectors, such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor ecosystem, financial innovation, digital payment, space technology, renewable energy, biotechnology, disaster resilience technologies and, especially, the peaceful use of atomic energy as both countries are carrying out their joint statement to progress toward becoming developed nations.

Karandikar concurred with Hai’s proposals, underscoring the deep historical ties between Vietnam and India and the abundant opportunities for stronger sci-tech collaboration.

He urged both countries to intensify direct coordination in science and technology as previous engagements have largely taken place within the ASEAN partnership framework.

Scientific communities from both nations should identify specific areas for collaboration and work together in such fields as digital technology, AI, cybersecurity, quantum technology, green energy, and biotechnology, the Indian official said.

Concluding the meeting, both sides agreed on the necessity for additional working sessions at different levels to expedite the signing of practical agreements./.

Digital transformation creates new momentum for national development

The annual National Digital Transformation Day (October 10) has been actively responded to by all localities, contributing to strongly and rapidly promoting the digital transformation process and creating a new momentum for Vietnam’s development.

This year, the event is themed universalising digital infrastructure and innovating digital applications to develop the digital economy - new driving force for economic growth and labour productivity improvement.

In mid-September, the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) officially issued and provided the National Digital Transformation Day 2024 identity set for free on the National Digital Transformation Portal at https://dx.gov.vn. From September 15 to the end of October 2024, ministries, sectors, and localities are expected to launch the day and organise response activities.

Da Nang, the locality that has led in three areas of Digital Government, Digital Economy, and Digital Society in the MIC’s Digital Transformation Index (DTI), has conducted various activities in response to the National Digital Transformation Day 2024 with an aim to promote the application of digital technology and raising public awareness of digital transformation.

Among the diverse activities were a digital transformation festival in Hai Chau district, a contest on online public service, programmes to upgrade mobile subscribers from 2G, 3G technology to 4G/5G technology, and seminars providing digital skills to businesses and people.

Nguyen Quang Thanh, Director of the Da Nang Department of Information and Communications said the city has received two prizes at the Vietnam Digital Awards 2024.

Hai said that by now, it has completed the provision of 95% of public services online. The city aims to supply the remaining 5% in the beginning of 2025, thus completing the provision of 100% of the services online.

Meanwhile, the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong, ranking 22nd in the DTI, has exerted great efforts in promoting digital transformation.

Hoang Van Bang, Director of the provincial Department of Information and Communications, said his office has set up working teams to reach all residents to guide them to use digital services and applications.

Meanwhile, the northern province of Son La has focused on digitalising economic sectors, promoting digital administration and digital data with people and businesses as the centre of transformation. Up to now, the information system on administrative procedures of Son La has been connected and shared with the National Public Service Portal and harmonised at all three levels from province to district and commune.

With efforts by the Government, ministries, sectors, and localities as well as people and businesses, over the years, the implementation of the Prime Minister's Decisions on the National Digital Transformation Programme, the Strategy for E-Government Development towards Digital Government and the National Strategy for Digital Economy and Digital Society Development, and the National Data Strategy has achieved many results.

According to the E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024 released by the UN in September, Vietnam scored 0.7709, placing itself 71st out of the 193 countries. Within Southeast Asia, Vietnam ranks 5th out of the 11, moving up one spot compared to its 2022 assessment.

According to the report, Vietnam has completed the 2024 target of raising the e-government ranking by at least five places as set in Resolution No. 02/NQ-CP issued on January 5, 2024, by the Government on key tasks and solutions to improve the business environment and enhance national competitiveness in 2024.

In the coming time, Vietnam will continue to work hard to speed up national digital transformation to promote socio-economic development, thus improving the business environment and enhancing the national competitiveness./.

Belgian Culture & Food Festival 2024 to take place in Hai Phong city

The Belgian Culture & Food Festival 2024 (B.Fest 2024), the fourth of its kind, will be held in the northern port city of Hai Phong from October 25-27.

Speaking at a press conference on October 9 about the event, Belgian Ambassador Karl Van den Bossche said this will be an opportunity for the Belgium community in Vietnam and local residents to share unique cultural values while promoting economic and tourism cooperation.

Nguyen Thi Bich Dung, Director of the municipal Department of Foreign Affairs, said the event will popularise the image of Hai Phong's land and people, especially investment incentives and a favourable investment environment to domestic and international friends.

Visitors to the festival will have a chance to learn about the origin of Belgian beer and understand why it was recognised as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

The three-day event will introduce 30 types of beer that are imported directly from Belgium and specialty dishes steeped in Belgian style.

It will also feature three concerts with the participation of leading domestic and foreign artists, including famous Belgian DJs.

A seminar on innovation and sustainable development will be held on October 25 to introduce Hai Phong's investment environment to domestic and foreign investors./.

Vietnamese in Germany donate another 220,000 USD for flood victims

The Federation of Vietnamese Associations in Germany has raised over 200,887 EUR (220,000 USD) among the community in the country to support people affected by Typhoon Yagi in the homeland.

The money was handed over to Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc on October 9 on the occasion his working trip to the European nation. This lifts the total to 400,000 EUR.

Deputy PM Phoc, on behalf of the government, thanked and praised the spirit of mutual love, solidarity, responsibility, and love of the Vietnamese in Germany towards their homeland.

He urged Vietnamese businesses in Germany to enhance their role in connecting and promoting trade and investment cooperation, and technology transfer to Vietnam, while also strengthening labour cooperation with the European nation.

According to Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh, the Vietnamese community in Germany is a strong, united, successful community, always looking towards the homeland, contributing to the prosperity of the two countries. The community’s great contributions to the host society have helped enhance the image and reputation of Vietnam and its people.

People-to-people diplomacy has truly become an important pillar in Germany, he said, showing his belief that in the coming time, the Vietnamese community in the country will witness even stronger developments.

Chairman of Federation of Vietnamese Associations in Germany Nguyen Van Hien said the federation will try to connect and unite all individuals, organisations, and associations of Vietnamese people, acting as a bridge to further promote the friendship between the two peoples, contributing to strengthening the diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Germany, and promoting the image of Vietnam and its people in the international arena./.

Little cooperation from zoo operators in mass deaths of tigers, lions, panther: authorities

Mỹ Quỳnh Zoo and Vườn Xoài Ecological Tourist Park have not been active in cooperating with authorities investigating the mass animal deaths at their facilities, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) said on Monday.

A total of 50 tigers, lions and one black panther have been reported dead at both sites in the southern region over the past few months.

According to Long An Province’s veterinary department, from August to September 16, a total of 27 tigers and three lions died at Mỹ Quỳnh Zoo. Among them, three lions were transferred from Vườn Xoài Tourist Park in Đồng Nai Province.

Đồng Nai’s veterinary department also reported 20 tigers and one black panther died in Vườn Xoài Tourist Park between September 8 and 22. This represents nearly half of the animals kept at the site.

Test results revealed that the dead animals were infected with avian influenza virus A/H5N1. Initial reports also showed that they were fed chickens imported from HCM City.

Mỹ Quỳnh Zoo and Vườn Xoài Tourist Park have not been proactive in working with authorities to investigate the outbreak, collecting test samples and promptly implementing disease prevention measures, said the MARD.

To prevent transmission of the virus from animals to humans, the ministry has issued an official document requiring Long An and Đồng Nai to closely monitor and manage the A/H5N1 outbreak on wild animals in their localities.

Measures to be taken include identifying the source of the outbreak and assessing risk factors, particularly the food sources for the captive animals, and the origins of the animals recently imported to both sites.

Long An and Đồng Nai authorities have demanded that Mỹ Quỳnh Zoo and Vườn Xoài Tourist Park take sanitary measures, closely monitor the health conditions of the remaining animals at both facilities and notify the local veterinary department of any new cases.

Owners of the facilities must also actively cooperate in collecting test samples, which will be sent to the National Centre for Veterinary Diagnosis for analysis.

Mỹ Quỳnh Zoo and Vườn Xoài Tourist Park must remain closed to visitors until the outbreak is fully under control.

The MARD also requires that Long An and Đồng Nai strictly handle any violations related to wildlife held in captivity, including regulations on reporting and controlling animal diseases.

Avian influenza virus A/H5N1, or bird flu, is a highly dangerous disease. Since 2003, Việt Nam has recorded 65 deaths out of a total of 129 cases across the country. Tens of millions of poultry have been culled due to the viral infection. 

Cần Thơ offers free traditional music classes

The Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta city of Cần Thơ is offering traditional music classes for residents and tourists as part of the city’s project to preserve and promote its intangible cultural heritage by 2025.

The Cần Thơ Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is launching a short-term course on southern ceremonial music at the Bình Thuỷ Temple in Bình Thuỷ District.

In the past, ceremonial music was often performed at weddings, funerals and worshipping rituals in the south, but today it is simplified and played at funerals and during Kỳ Yên ceremonies worshipping the God of Land at temples.

The 20-day course targets to improve the knowledge of ceremonial music and the performing skills of musicians and bands at rituals and sacred places in the city.

The course includes topics such as the role of southern ceremonial music in community activities in Việt Nam, the introduction of typical musical instruments used in ceremonial music bands in the south, and the performance of rituals in worshipping ceremonies or funerals.

The instructors are musician Phan Nhứt Dũng, a lecturer at the HCM City University of Cinematography and Theatre, and artisans from the city and southern provinces.

The course will last until October 20.

According to the department’s director Nguyễn Minh Tuấn, many intangible cultural heritages related to folk performing arts are at high risk of disappearing, including southern ceremonial music, tài tử music, Cần Thơ folk singing, and lullabies. Therefore, in recent years, the city has been conducting projects to research, preserve and promote intangible cultural heritage.

Since September, Cần Thơ has also launched a free class to teach tài tử music to its residents and visitors at Ninh Kiều Wharf in Ninh Kiều District every Friday night.

The class is hosted by artists from the Cần Thơ Cultural Centre.

Meritorious Artisan Kiều Nga, deputy director of the centre, said the class offers general knowledge of tài tử music and classic songs, and participants can listen to songs and learn to sing them.

She added the class attracted many city residents, members of the local tài tử club, and even visitors who came to the class thanks to the sounds of musical instruments.

Nguyệt said the class spreads the beauty and love for tài tử music to people and tourists.

The free tài tử music class will be held until mid-December.

Quảng Ninh Museum works to promote intangible cultural heritage

The Quảng Ninh Museum in Hạ Long City is making efforts to preserve and promote the coastal province's plethora of rich intangible cultural heritage.

According to statistics from the Quảng Ninh Department of Culture and Sports, the province is home to 362 items and events that are listed as intangible cultural heritage across seven categories.

These include 76 traditional festivals, 25 traditional crafts, 22 works of folk performance art, 14 works of folk literature, 168 social customs, seven spoken and written languages, and 50 folk knowledge traditions. Among these, the 76 festivals, ranging from major multi-day celebrations to smaller regional events, draw significant tourist attention annually.

At the beginning of 2024, the Quảng Ninh Museum organised an exhibition on the Lễ cấp sắc – a rite of passage declaring the coming-of-age of ethnic Dao Thanh Y men.

At the exhibition, the rite was condensed and staged for the public. This event marked a new direction for the museum in integrating Quảng Ninh’s folk performances to enhance the experience for visitors.

In 2023, the province’s Uông Bí City allocated VNĐ800 million (US$32,000) for a project to create a space dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the ethnic Dao Thanh Y group.

The Quảng Ninh Museum has been chosen to coordinate and execute the construction of the project. The space will feature folk knowledge on the traditional craft of sewing and embroidering Dao Thanh Y costumes, provide general information about the ethnic group's traditional festivals as well as knowledge about the construction of their earthen houses, living customs, culture, cuisine and herbal medicine.

In addition to the Lễ cấp sắc of the Dao Thanh Y people, the Quảng Ninh Museum is also supporting Vân Đồn District in restoring the đại phan, a festival of the ethnic Sán Dìu community in Bình Dân Commune, to pray for the villagers' peace, favourable weather and bountiful harvests. The museum has also contributed significantly in reviving the folk art of soọng cô singing and the wedding customs of the Sán Dìu.

The museum’s staff, who are also members of the Quảng Ninh Folklore Association, have produced a number of well-researched books and articles about the Yên Tử historical site, one of the influential cradles of Buddhism in the country, the soóng cọ of the Sán Chỉ ethnic people and the Mở cửa đình (Temple opening) festival and nhà tơ singing in the coastal commune of Đầm Hà.

These studies serve as a reliable foundation for the museum to create performances that enrich visitors' experiences.

Quảng Ninh residents have many other forms of folk singing. To preserve, practice and teach these folk tunes, hundreds of folk singers and professional artists are getting involved. The Quảng Ninh Museum plans to invite these artists to perform for visitors.

Since 2014, the Quảng Ninh Chèo Art Troupe and Quảng Ninh Cải Lương (Reformed Opera) Art Troupe (now known as the Quảng Ninh Art Troupe) have staged the art performance Hoa Muôn Sắc (Multi-Coloured Flowers) for tourists. This show demonstrates that traditional art forms are alive, offering a boundless resource for the development of sustainable tourism.

In the near future, the Quảng Ninh Museum will complete documentation for four new pieces of intangible cultural heritage, including filming the đối – giao duyên singing of the Quảng Ninh coastal region, Lễ cầu mùa, a praying for rain ritual, and the traditional costumes of the ethnic Sán Chỉ group.

Annual award for Hà Nội honours architect Hoàng Đạo Kính

The architect Hoàng Đạo Kính secured the Grand Prize at the 17th Bùi Xuân Phái - For the Love of Hà Nội Awards.

Born in Hà Nội in 1941, the professor and doctor has substantially contributed to the restoration of many cultural and architectural structures nationwide for the last 50 years.

He and his colleagues restored famous historical sites symbolising the millennium-old city of Hà Nội, such as the covered pavilion for the doctoral steeles at the Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám complex and the Hà Nội Opera House.

In addition, he has also preserved and restored other heritage sites such as Tây Đằng Communal House, Kim Liên Pagoda, Tây Phương Pagoda and Thầy Pagoda.

Hoàng Đạo Kính said: "I want to clarify that I am not a 'knight of architectural relics' as people said about me. I am simply a specialist, someone who is deeply passionate about the work I have chosen, which is why I have dedicated my life to the preservation and restoration of heritage sites."

The Bùi Xuân Phái awards were launched in 2008 by Vietnam News Agency’s Thể Thao & Văn Hóa (Culture & Sports) newspaper and the descendants of the esteemed late artist Bùi Xuân Phái (1920-1988), one of the key individuals behind Việt Nam’s modern art scene.

It aims to honour the contributions of individuals and organisations to the capital city. 

The Bùi Xuân Phái (BXP) Awards include other categories: the BXP Award for Works, the BXP Award for Good Deeds and BXP Award for Ideas. 

The book entitled Hà Nội thời cận đại - từ nhượng địa đến thành phố (1873-1945) (Hà Nội in Modern Times – from Conceded Territory to City) by Đào Thị Diến were the proud recipients of the BXP Award for Works. 

The book is published by the Hà Nội Publishing House and the Nhã Nam Publishing and Communications JSC. 

This book is the result of over 30 years of research by author Diến, who has worked diligently to reconstruct the early period of Hà Nội's modern history.

Through the lens of archival documents, the author examined the transformation of Hà Nội as it evolved into a modern city, becoming the capital of French Indochina in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The BXP Award for Good Deeds was presented to US saxophonist Kenny G’s music video Going Home, produced by the Nhân Dân (The People) newspaper and IB Group Việt Nam.

In the video Kenny G performed at famous destinations in Hà Nội, including Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, the Temple of Literature and on the Long Biên Bridge.

It has been viewed millions of times on various distribution platforms.

Chairman of IB Group Việt Nam Nguyễn Thùy Dương revealed that the team spent eight months persuading Kenny G to participate in the music video.

"Our goal was to use music, a universally cherished medium, to link with images that hold historical and cultural importance for both Hà Nội and Việt Nam. Through our music video, we hope to inspire international friends to gain a deeper understanding of Hà Nội," he said. 

Meanwhile, the BXP Award for Ideas went to plans to renovate the landscape around Thiền Quang Lake and its vicinity, which was drawn up and developed by the People’s Committee of Hai Bà Trưng District in 2023.

Beyond just an idea, this project is now in its initial stages of implementation and has received widespread public support.

"On October 18, the Hai Bà Trưng District People's Committee is scheduled to report to the city to officially hold an inauguration ceremony and unveil the plaque for the project, celebrating the 70th anniversary of Hà Nội's Liberation Day," said Nguyễn Quang Trung, chairman of the Hai Bà Trưng District People's Committee. 

Book features folk paintings in southern Việt Nam

A book featuring the art of folk paintings in southern Việt Nam has been released by the HCM City General Publishing House. 

The publication is written by female cultural researcher Huỳnh Thanh Bình, who has more than ten years in the field. 

The 208-page book, Tranh Dân Gian Nam Bộ (Folk Paintings of Southern Việt Nam), features the art of traditional paintings from woodprints to papers and fabrics by southern people in different periods. 

The culture, lifestyle, and religions of the South are also featured. 

The book includes many photos featuring paintings.

Writer Bình spent ten years to research, collect, write and capture photos to perfect her book. 

“Folk paintings on paper tend to soften and fade over time. My staff has collected paintings dating back between the 1940s and 1960s. In recent decades, the paintings are often printed and created on canvas,” said 38-year-old Bình, one of the country’s very few female cultural researchers of the art. 

Bình released two books featuring the art of grass paintings and Khmer murals in the South. 

Bình’s Tranh Tường Khmer Nam Bộ (Khmer murals of the southern people in Việt Nam) was printed by the HCM City-based Văn Hoá-Văn Nghệ (Culture-Arts) Publishing House in 2020. 

It features paintings on walls and ceilings by the Khmer in the southern provinces of An Giang, Kiên Giang, Sóc Trăng, Trà Vinh and Bạc Liêu.

The book includes many photos featuring paintings on walls in Khmer pagodas.  

Bình visited more than 300 pagodas in the Cửu Long (Mekong) River Delta region to learn about paintings on walls and ceilings. She also met and talked with local nuns, the elderly and artisans. 

“Khmer murals should be preserved and presented to the world,” said Bình. 

The work Tranh Kiếng Nam Bộ (Glass Painting by Southern People) was released in 2013. 

It features the art of painting on glass, a traditional art of the Khmer in Sóc Trăng Province, the home of 400,000 ethnic Khmer. 

Glass paintings are used to decorate houses to celebrate traditional festivals. A glass painting can be stored for 20 years without losing its vibrancy. Artisans have their own secrets for mixing paints to keep the colour.

Divo Tùng Dương’s liveshow gets ‘rejuvenated’ with young guest artists

The inexhaustible creativity and hard work of Vietnamese divo Tùng Dương seems to never end.

Straight off the back of releasing two elaborate music videos, within a time frame of just three months, the singer now is busy preparing for a liveshow in November.

Entitled Tùng Dương – Người Đàn Ông Hát (Tùng Dương – The Singing Man), the show will be his 14th event of its kind. After many years of tirelessly creating his own musical personality, with concerts such as Những Ô Màu Lập Phương (The Coloured Cubes), Trời và Đất (Heaven and Earth) and Human, Tùng Dương is performing a show which will embody his passion and dedication and to honour humanity.

The singer said that the new show will encapsulate the sharing, calmness and optimism derived from the reflections on his life after a year filled with many ups and downs and especially the recent deadly Yagi Typhoon.

“Through the liveshow, I want to express my gratitude to the songwriters of Hà Nội. This year, the Hồng (Red River) has risen due to floods and I also want to honour the river that has witnessed the ups and downs of history. When the river swells in the floods, we feel deep sorrow, reflecting on many aspects of life,” Dương said.

The first part of the liveshow will be dedicated to the tunes by composers Trần Tiến, Phó Đức Phương, Phú Quang, Lê Minh Sơn, and Lưu Hà An. The melodies of those songwriters, Dương said: "Embodies the spirit and preserves the cultural essence of Hà Nội".

To keep the show fresh and celebrate a companionship with a young generation of singers, Dương has invited four most popular singers today, including Double 2T, Soobin Hoàng Sơn, Trung Quân Idol and singer-songwriter Tăng Duy Tân.

Rapper Double 2T, winner of the TV show Rap Việt, featured in Tùng Dương’s epic-styled music video Cánh Chim Phượng Hoàng (Phoenix Wings) which launched in June.

Singer-songwriter Tăng Duy Tân, cousin to Tùng Dương, has crafted several híts that have resonated with young audiences. In the show in November, the divo will perform Tái Sinh (Reborn), a song specially composed for him by Tân.

“A young artist admired by many audiences, Tân is cautious, a perfectionist and responsible. He has spent a year nurturing a new song for me to perform in this liveshow," Dương said.

In their first collaboration, Tùng Dương and the multi-talented artist Soobin Hoàng Sơn will duet two songs. Additionally, Dương will debut a popular R&B tune composed by Soobin, while the young singer will in reply perform one of Dương's hits.

Dương and Trung Quân Idol are set to enchant audiences with their tuneful and velvety voices, covering romantic ballads. 

“This live concert will bring a youthful vibe, offering a less ‘challenging’ experience than some previous shows. After enduring difficulties, like the recent deadly typhoon and serious floods, a vibrant night of music will be a tribute to special audiences who have been the motivation behind my singing and creativity. The concert is all about shared joy and energy,” Dương said.

Tùng Dương – Người Đàn Ông Hát is at the National Convention Centre in Hà Nội on November 23. Following Hà Nội, it will tour Đà Nẵng on December 1, featuring guest artists Thanh Lam, singer Trung Quân Idol and winner of the national singing contest Sao Mai (Morning Star) 2022 Lê Minh Ngọc. 

Hanoi develops as dynamic, pioneering, innovation city: Int’l media

Media outlets and international friends have provided accurate assessments of Hanoi's strategic vision—a dynamic city and a pioneer in innovation, integration, and sustainable development, after seven decades of construction and development (October 10, 1954-2-24).

Hanoi is thriving as the dynamic capital of Vietnam. It has overcome numerous difficulties and challenges, achieving many successes to ensure that Thang Long - Hanoi remains worthy of its title as the heart of Vietnam.

Media agencies have noted that Hanoi is a hub of opportunity and growth. It is conveniently connected to most capital cities of other ASEAN member countries, and the centre of infrastructure advancements of Vietnam with ongoing projects such as new urban railway lines and connection roads.

They said that this bustling city also proudly stands as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The combination of strategic location, infrastructure development, and cost-efficiency has positioned Hanoi as an ideal location for business establishment and investment in the region.

In recent years, the city has organised foreign investment outreach conferences, focusing on solutions to attract multinational corporations’ investment into the capital. The improved business environment has contributed to luring domestic companies, as well as international businesses and corporations to invest in industrial zones.

Not only focusing on developing incentive policies for investors, Hanoi also promotes the development of industrial parks (IPs), especially high-tech parks.

FDI enterprises highly value Hanoi's efforts in improving the business environment. As a result, many foreign-invested corporations have confirmed their plans to choose Hanoi as the location to expand their investment and business in the coming years, especially in the hi-tech industry.

According to the Vietnam Briefing newswire, Hanoi ranks among the top five destinations for foreign capital.

In line with the Vietnam government’s overarching strategy to boost investment promotion, Hanoi has undertaken comprehensive reforms aimed at attracting FDI across various sectors, including high added-value industries such as manufacturing, logistics, tourism, education, health care, and clean energy, it noted.

The municipal administration has set ambitious economic plans for key industries, with a special emphasis on technology, construction projects, tourism, and urban development. The city aims to position itself as a leader in digital transformation and innovation by 2025, fostering a robust digital economy and startup ecosystem. Additionally, significant investments are earmarked for transport infrastructure projects, including metro lines, to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for residents.

To drive growth and achieve its investment targets, Hanoi is striving to attract up to 40 billion in FDI between 2021 and 2025, focusing on urban planning, clean water accessibility, and smart city initiatives. Part of its strategy to achieve this will include tackling hindrance to foreign investment, such as the slow development of industrial zones and clusters, high land rentals, and the small scale of support industry. The capital city is also committed to addressing environmental challenges, such as air pollution, which can impact its attractiveness to investors if left unmitigated.

Looking ahead, Hanoi aims to strengthen partnerships with key FDI markets, including the Republic of Korea (RoK), Singapore, Taiwan (China), the US, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Immediate priorities include optimising public funds allocation, streamlining administrative procedures, and enhancing budget management.

The charming capital of Vietnam has won the hearts of many foreign tourists thanks to its rich culture, beautiful east-meet-west buildings, and wonderful street food.

In a travel article on Vietnam, Canada’s Thetravel.com said that it's no surprise that Hanoi, as the capital, is one of the most visited cities in Vietnam, along with Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Long Bay.

"Dubbed the 'Paris of the East', Hanoi is a sightseer's paradise for its landmarks with French influences mixed with Vietnamese motifs. This metropolis is jam-packed with attractions that cater to tourists of all tastes," the article said.

Hanoi is also the cradle of preserving and promoting Vietnam's cultural heritage. Hanoians infuse their cultural and artistic identity into their cultural creations. The capital city's famous dishes have contributed significantly to putting Vietnamese cuisine on the world culinary map.

The capital city topped the list of the Best Food Destination 2024 voted by readers of the world's largest travel guidance platform TripAdvisor./.

Exhibition on luxury watches take place in Ho Chi Minh City

The Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) Exhibition has made its debut at the iconic Saigon Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City, giving local watch enthusiasts the chance to access 90 watches officially nominated for the upcoming award.

In conjunction with The Hour Glass, Vietnam is the only Southeast Asian country to host the GPHG Exhibition this year.

The grand launch was initially held on October 8, offering visitors the chance to view the world of haute horlogerie and admire some of the finest creations in watchmaking.

Guests can admire all of the nominees selected for 15 watch categories, including Men's, Ladies', Men's & Ladies' Complications, Iconic, Tourbillon, Calendar & Astronomy, Mechanical Exception, Time Only, Chronograph, Sports, Jewellery, Artistic Crafts, Challenge, and Petite Aiguille.

After Ho Chi Minh City, the next GPHG exhibitions will be held in New York, Geneva, and Bucharest.

According to The Hour Glass, each November sees the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève awards ceremony celebrate and unite the watchmaking industry by honouring exceptional horological creations from the year.

The annual GPHG awards ceremony is often seen as the equivalent of the Oscars of the watch industry as it’s often viewed as the essential event of the year for both collectors and enthusiasts alike.

“Hanoi Climate Talks” gets underway in Hanoi

The German Embassy in Hanoi, working in partnership with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung and the Academy of Journalism and Communication, hosted “Youth Engagement in Vietnam’s Just Transition” on October 9, the third edition of the “Hanoi Climate Talks” series aimed at addressing various climate change-related topics.

The event featured a panel discussion and an exhibition showcasing the various work of young Vietnamese people on issues related to climate change. It highlighted the critical role of young people in driving climate action, advocating for sustainable practices, and shaping a just future for the good of their communities.

“Due to global warming, children born today are likely to face seven times more extreme weather events than their grandparents. Typhoon Yagi is one recent tragic example. Therefore, youth participation is key when it comes to addressing climate change,” said Simon Kreye, deputy ambassador of Germany.

According to the diplomat, young people bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, and engaging the youth in decision-making processes ensures that policies reflect the needs of future generations.

He called on all stakeholders, including youth, to get involved in actions to realise the net zero commitments.

“Achieving net-zero, here in Vietnam, in Germany and across the world is possible if all actors play along. We need the active engagement of young people,” he suggested.

Delegates learned about the current stage of Vietnam’s energy transition, thereby raising awareness of the necessity for climate action in one of the countries most affected by climate change, whilst also empowering participants to get more involved.

At the event, young climate ambassadors from the Green Youth Labs project, a training and innovation programme funded by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) and a representative from MONRE (Department of Climate Change), commented on the presentations and provided an outlook on the Government's plan to realise the Just Energy Transition Partnership, helping to facilitate dialogue between young people and policymakers.

Following the panel discussion, an exhibition was held, showcasing contributions made by youth representatives towards Vietnam's climate action and their innovative ideas, thus fostering a shared commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.

Int’l conference spotlights border and maritime cooperation

An international conference on "Cooperation for Peace and Development in Boundaries and Seas" has been held in Hanoi, drawing over 170 delegates, experts, and scholars from Vietnam and abroad.

In his opening speech, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Border Committee Nguyen Minh Vu stated that the theme of the workshop reflects the objective and urgent need for international cooperation for peace and development in boundaries and seas.

He emphasised the role of international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), in maintaining a peaceful and stable environment, providing a solid foundation for international cooperation on maritime issues.

Pierre Du Ville, head of the Wallonie-Bruxelles Delegation in Vietnam, noted that the event would enhance the fine cooperation between Vietnam and Belgium. He also welcomed Vietnam's efforts and results in collaborating with neighbouring countries on border issues.

During the conference, experts and delegates dedicated significant time to discussing experience in cooperation and management of land and maritime borders, legal frameworks for defining overlapping maritime zones and rights and obligations in these areas; and measures to ensure sustainable management of marine resources and promote transparency in maritime governance.

Their discussions highlighted the importance of border and maritime cooperation based on international law, contributing to peace, security, and development of the relevant countries.

Ho Chi Minh City to host Vietnam Bakery Cup 2024

The Vietnam Bakery Cup 2024, the first international cake making contest in Vietnam, is scheduled to take place from December 11 to 14 at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center in Ho Chi Minh City.

Organised by the Vietnam Bakery Association (VBA) and the Saigon Professional Chef’s Guild (SPC), the Vietnam Bakery Cup 2024 is supported by the Worldchefs and the International Union of Bakers and Confectioners (UIBC).

According to the organising board, the contest will attract the participation of 400 to 500 local and international chefs, with judges coming from 20 countries across the world.

Vietnam Bakery Cup is a prominent event in the field of artistic baking, where both local and international chefs come together to showcase their talents and professional skills, it added.

The contest is expected to be a golden opportunity to introduce the cultural and economic values ​​of the Vietnamese bakery industry, and to promote the Vietnamese culinary industry as a whole.

A number of seminars, talk shows, and exhibitions introducing raw bakery materials will also be held within the framework of the contest.

VNS/VOV/VNN/VNA