New technological applications in the ArtTech field will be showcased at the annual international ArtTech Fusion event that will take place in Ho Chi Minh City from October 22-24.

The 3rd ArtTech Fusion themed “New ArtTech for Future Generations” is aimed at promoting the development of ArtTech, particularly its application in nurturing and developing future generations.

As many as 11 international universities from China, Italy, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan (China) will participate in a series of 30 academic and practical activities during the three-day event.

There will be eight exhibitions, 10 discussion sessions and five workshops covering topics such as ArtTech - Global trends and potential applications, ArtTech experience, ArtTech and social impacts, and ArtTech and sustainable development.

As the highlight of the international event series, a tangible and interactive fashion performance promises to offer fresh perspectives on how ArtTech can positively impact people and life, especially in nurturing a creative, innovative, and socially responsible future generation.

Speaking at a press briefing early this week, Professor, Dr. Nguyen Khac Quoc Bao, deputy director of the University of Economics HCM City, said ArtTech Fusion serves as a forum for exchange between academia (professors, lecturers, and students) and the ArtTech enthusiast community.

It fosters the creative and innovative potential of the young generation and nurtures the creativity and flexible problem-solving ability of future leaders, Bao said.

“With the combination of technology and art, the event lays a foundation for new initiatives and solutions that contribute to solving global challenges, while promoting the harmonious and sustainable development of the community,” he said.

The event will be organised by ArtTech Hub and the UEH College of Technology and Design at the two campuses of the University of Economics HCM City./.

Vice President calls on Sweden to share development experience with Vietnam

Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan received Swedish Ambassador Johan Ndisi in Hanoi on October 15, calling on the European country to share experiences in sustainable development and climate change response with Vietnam.

Xuan said the two countries boast the 55-year friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation. Sweden was one of the first western countries to set up diplomatic relations with Vietnam, on January 11, 1969, when the latter was still in an arduous resistance war to regain national independence and reunification.

She noted that the Vietnamese State and people keep in mind and appreciate Sweden’s significant support for their struggle for national independence and reunification in the past, as well as the national reform, construction, and integration into the world at present.

Sweden has supplied about 3 billion USD in non-refundable aid for Vietnam. Some structures built with its support such as the Bai Bang paper mill, the Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, and the Uong Bi Hospital have substantially contributed to local socio-economic development, she elaborated.

The Vice President emphasised that for the last more than half a century, the two countries have nurtured bilateral relations in an increasingly sustainable and result-oriented manner to obtain pride-worthy achievements in all spheres.

In 2023, bilateral trade reached about 1.3 billion USD. Meanwhile, Sweden has invested 743 million USD in more than 110 projects in Vietnam. The two sides have also signed many cooperation deals and supported each other at multilateral forums. Their trade ties are now enhanced more strongly thanks to the EU - Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

Believing that there remains much room for the countries’ relations to grow, Xuan expressed her hope that Vietnam and Sweden will keep fostering their sound connections, step up delegation exchanges, especially at high levels, boost cooperation between their enterprises to secure more substantive results, and review existing frameworks and agreements to align them with the new period.

Aside from economic, trade and investment links, she asked the ambassador to pay attention to other fields of long-standing collaboration like education, science - technology, and agriculture while helping strengthen cultural, tourism, and people-to-people bonds.

As Vietnam is now in need of new technologies, especially in terms of circular economy, to save resources, develop sustainably, and better protect the environment, the official called on Sweden to share experiences in sustainable development and climate change response with Vietnam, particularly localities in the Mekong Delta.

The Vice President affirmed the readiness to assist the ambassador to contribute to the two countries’ relations.

Highlighting the close-knit connections across the board for the last 55 years, Ndisi held that the two countries hold great potential for comprehensively bolstering trade and investment partnerships.

He suggested the countries enhance collaboration in green transition, digital transformation, and sustainable development, adding Sweden is also ready to help Vietnam with innovation.

Swedish enterprises wish to maintain cooperative ties and investment and business activities in Vietnam. Many have operated efficiently here for decades while new firms are also moving to access the dynamic market of Vietnam. They are willing to offer solutions in infrastructure, including transport infrastructure, to the country, according to the diplomat./.

NA official highlights NA Chairman’s trip to Laos for official visit, attendance of AIPA-45

Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly Committee for External Relations Le Thu Ha has highlighted the significance of NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man’s upcoming trip to Laos for an official visit and attendance at the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45) from October 17-19.

Speaking to the press, Ha said the attendance of NA Chairman Man and the Vietnamese delegation at AIPA-45 reflects the proactive and responsible engagement of the Vietnamese NA alongside the parliaments of member countries. This engagement aims to strengthen ASEAN's central role, unity and solidarity, enhance intra-regional cooperation, and expand multifaceted relations with parliaments both inside and outside the region. The goal is to promote AIPA's responsibility and role in ensuring peace, stability, and development, while introducing valuable initiatives to support ASEAN governments in addressing regional priorities.

Besides, the engagement of the Vietnamese NA will also serve as a testament to the country's support for Laos as it undertakes significant international responsibilities in 2024, including its role as ASEAN and AIPA Chair and the successful hosting of AIPA-45, she said.

Vietnam is poised to propose four initiatives/resolutions at various AIPA meetings, including AIPA Young Parliamentarians’ Meeting, the AIPA Committee on Social Matters, the AIPA Conference of Women Parliamentarians, and the AIPA Committee on Economic Matters.

They include a resolution on enhancing the role of ASEAN young parliamentarians in implementing the Declaration of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians on accelerating the achievement of sustainable development goals through digital transformation and innovation, a resolution on enhancing rights, social welfare, and employment opportunities for older persons in ASEAN, a resolution on promoting the elimination of violence against women and girls in ASEAN, and another on enhancing institutional capacity to connect transportation, aviation and seaports in ASEAN.

The Vietnamese delegation will also consider co-sponsoring six resolutions, including five proposed by Laos and one jointly proposed by Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia.

Ha noted that Man's first visit to Laos in his current capacity is to concretise the high-level agreement between the two Politburos and the Vietnam-Laos Joint Statement, following the state visits by Lao Party General Secretary and State President Thongloun Sisoulith in September and State President To Lam in July.

The visit will reaffirm the Party and State’s consistent policy of giving top priority to and treasuring the development of the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos. It underscores Vietnam's strong and comprehensive support for Laos in its renewal process, national construction and defence, while demonstrating the trust and close ties between leaders of the two countries.

During the visit, Man is scheduled to hold talks with his Lao counterpart Saysomphone Phomvihane, pay a courtesy call to Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, meet with Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, and engage in other important meetings. Both sides will discuss and agree on orientations to deepen and improve the effectiveness of the bilateral relationship, particularly between the two legislatures. They will discuss the coordination of their stance on several strategic global and regional issues of mutual concern, she added./.

NA Chairman’s visit to help strengthen Vietnam – Laos parliamentary cooperation

Chairman of the National Assembly Tran Thanh Man’s upcoming trip to Laos for an official visit and attendance at the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45) from October 17-19 will be an opportunity for the two nations to tighten their special solidarity and expand parliamentary collaboration.

The Vietnam – Laos traditional relations, the foundation of which was laid by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Suphanouvong and treasured by generations of leaders of the two Parties, States and peoples, have become an invaluable asset for the two peoples and a common rule of development of both nations towards prosperity and happiness.

The two countries have enjoyed close relations since they established their diplomatic ties on September 5, 1962.

On July 18, 1977, they inked the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, affirming their unweaving special solidarity, cooperation, and support for each other in the endeavour to build and safeguard independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of each nation.

Over the past 47 years, the treaty has been an important political and legal basis for both sides to strengthen their bilateral relations, serving their national construction and defence.

That they upgraded their ties to great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation in February 2019 is a significant milestone, creating a breakthrough in the bilateral relations.

Over the years, leaders of the two Parties and States have enhanced the exchange of delegations through all channels. Most recently, they successfully held the 46th meeting of the Vietnam-Laos Intergovernmental Committee for Bilateral Cooperation on January 7, organised the annual high-level meeting between the two Parties on February 26, and arranged mutual visits at all levels.

Throughout the visits as well as working sessions, the two sides focused on substantive and candid discussions, guiding the relationship between the two Parties and the two countries towards more stable, solid, and effective developments. They also affirmed their resolve to bolster and elevate the friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation in the new context and in accordance with the realities in each nation.

The two nations have paid due attention to cooperation in economy, trade, and investment, with two-way trade topping 1.64 billion USD in 2023 and reaching 1.3 billion USD in the first eight months of this year.

As of August, Vietnam had run 256 investment projects with registered capital totaling more than 5.5 billion USD in Laos, contributing to developing nation’s socio-economy, generating jobs for thousands of workers, and increasing budget collection in telecommunications, banking, rubber plantation and processing, and food processing, among others.

Furthermore, the two countries continue their close cooperation in security – defence, contributing to the maintenance of stable political situation, security, and social order in each nation and border areas. Collaboration in transport, education – training, culture, and people – to – people exchanges has received due attention.

They have worked closely with and supported each other at regional and international cooperation forums while enhancing collaboration and coordination with other ASEAN member states in building the ASEAN Community and maintaining ASEAN’s solidarity and consensus on strategic issues in the region. This year, Vietnam has supported Laos to successfully realise the role of the ASEAN Chair and AIPA-45 Chair.

Together with the robust development of the two Parties and States’ relations, parliamentary cooperation has been unceasingly consolidated and intensified.

The two sides have maintained the exchange of high-level delegations, experience sharing, and close cooperation at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums such as AIPA, Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Asia – Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF), and Asia – Europe Parliamentary Partnership Meeting (ASEP).

Standout cooperation activities between the two NAs are annual delegation exchanges, cooperation mechanisms between young parliamentarians, and those between the two NAs’ committees and offices, to name just a few.

Particularly, the new National Assembly building, a gift from the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to the Lao side, is a symbol of the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. It was transferred to Laos on August 10, 2021 after four years of construction.

The two parliaments are working together to compile and publish a book spotlighting their comprehensive cooperation and development in 50 years, helping raise public awareness of the close ties between the two NAs as well as the Vietnam – Laos special relations.

Against the backdrop, the top legislator’s official visit to Laos will continue affirming the Vietnamese Party and State’s consistent policy of giving the top priority to and treasuring the development of the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation with the neighbouring country. Besides, it will help enhance trust between high-ranking leaders of both nations while creating opportunities for them to evaluate the bilateral cooperation over the past time, explore orientations and specific measures to improve the efficacy of the collaboration between the two states and parliaments in the coming time, and discuss regional and international issues of mutual concerns.

According to Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Minh Tam, amidst rapid, complicated, and unpredictable developments in the region and the world that could have profound impact on countries, the solidarity and mutual assistance between the two Parties, States, and NAs are among the greatest sources of strength and vital to their national construction and protection, contributing to preserving and developing their great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

The diplomat suggested the two NAs intensify their coordination and the exchange of experience in law-making, supreme supervision, and decision making on major national matters.

The focus should be on monitoring and facilitating the implementation of high-level agreements and cooperation pacts between the two countries, particularly the key objectives outlined in the Vietnam-Laos Cooperation Strategy for 2021-2030 and the Vietnam-Laos Cooperation Agreement for 2021-2025, he stressed.

The diplomat also suggested the organisation of seminars and workshops where the two sides can share operation experience, and the enhancement of exchanges between friendship parliamentarian groups, women and young lawmakers, and localities.

Additionally, the two sides should continue their close coordination and mutual support at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums like IPU, AIPA and APPF, thus improving their position and roles in the region and international arena.

Tam added that Man’s official visit to Laos will contribute to strengthening the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, States, NAs, and peoples, making the bilateral collaboration a rare and exemplary relationship in the world./.

PM orders drastic measures to accelerate transport projects in Mekong Delta region

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired a conference in Can Tho city on October 16 to seek solutions to difficulties and obstacles facing infrastructure projects in the Mekong Delta region so as to speed up their progress.

Chinh, who is head of the State steering committee for national important transport projects, noted that three months ago, also in Can Tho city, he chaired a conference to discuss measures to remove difficulties for and promote transport infrastructure development in the region.

Since the beginning of this tenure, he made at least five examinations at major transport projects in the region, showing his great attention to local transport infrastructure expansion in particular and its growth in general.

Highlighting the role of infrastructure, especially transport infrastructure in the process of industrialisation and modernisation of agriculture and rural areas based on innovation for the development of the Mekong Delta region, the Government leader underlined the need to strengthen decentralisation and delegation of power following the spirit of localities making decisions and bearing responsibilities, with central agencies performing the tasks of State management, developing plans, programmes, laws, policy mechanisms, management tools, and conducting monitoring and inspection activities.

Along with reviewing the progress of transport infrastructure projects and pointing to reasons behind current difficulties and obstacles, participants must clarify solutions to specific issues and the responsibility of particular persons and agencies for particular work, he emphasised.

The leaders requested project management boards, investors, and consulting agencies to report their own difficulties and give proposals on solutions.

According to the Ministry of Transport, the Mekong Delta region is hosting nine key nation transport projects with a combined investment of about 106 trillion VND (4.25 billion USD). Currently, eight projects are under construction, while the remaining, the My An-Cao Lanh expressway, is having its procedures filanised and expected to be launched in early 2025.

Of the eight ongoing projects, six are scheduled to complete in 2025, and the other two are expected to finish in 2026 and 2027./.

Top legislator’s visit demonstrates Vietnam – Laos special ties: Lao official

Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Tran Thanh Man’s choosing Laos as the first destination of his first trip abroad in his new role is a vivid demonstration for the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, States and peoples, Vice Chairwoman of the Lao National Assembly Sounthone Xayachack has said.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency on the threshold of Man’s trip to the neighbouring country for an official visit and attendance at the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45) from October 17-19, Sounthone Xayachack said the top Vietnamese legislator’s presence at the event will be the support and motivation that the Vietnamese people give to the Lao people and the Lao NA in particular.

This will be a good opportunity for the high-ranking leaders of both nations to look back on the special traditional solidarity between the two countries, the foundation of which was laid by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Suphanouvong and treasured by generations of leaders of the two Parties and States, revolutionary soldiers and peoples, she said, highlighting it has been a common invaluable asset and a decisive factor for the victory of the two nations’ revolutions.

She expressed her delight at the development of the special relations that have brought substantive benefits to the two peoples amidst complicated situations in the region and the world, adding the two legislative bodies have made positive contributions to their great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation.

The two parliaments, she elaborated, have stood shoulders to shoulders to branch out the comprehensive cooperation, with the arrangement of regular exchanges of visits and training courses, saying the new National Assembly building, a gift from the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to the Lao sides, is a symbol of the Vietnam – Laos special relations.

Additionally, the two NAs are bringing into full play the signed Memorandum of Understanding while working together to compile and publish a book spotlighting their comprehensive cooperation and development in 50 years.

Over the past time, they have enhanced collaboration in various areas such as sharing legislation experience, organising workshops, and inspecting Vietnamese projects in Laos, she stated.

She went on to speak highly of Vietnamese NA’s contributions to regional and international forums, including AIPA, with initiatives to handle the challenges that countries are facing.

It has supported the Lao side to organise the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits as well as AIPA-45, she said, adding NA Chairman Man’s attendance at AIPA will be a motivation for the host and an important contribution to the success of the event./.

Vietnamese, Lao police strengthen cooperation in ensuring border security

Police of Dien Bien district in the northern province of Dien Bien and bordering Muang May district of Laos’ Phongsaly province held talks in the Vietnamese locality on October 15 to evaluate their cooperation in ensuring security and order along the shared border in 2024.

Participants noted that the political security situation in Dien Bien district has been basically stable, while social order was ensured and crime and law violations continued to be under control. Authorities discovered 127 drug trafficking cases, arresting 137 suspects, and seizing more than 3.5 kilos of heroin and meths.

Through information exchanges via the hotline, the two sides discovered four cross-border drug trafficking cases involving 13 suspects, and 13 economic and environmental violation cases with 13 suspects.

The police force of the two districts agreed to continue to sign an agreement on strengthening coordination in ensuring security and order along the border, thus promoting their achievements and effectively foiling the plots and operations of hostile forces and criminals.

The two sides will also update each other on information related to security and order, while increasing law communications and education, effectively cooperating in managing entry-exit activities, and collaborating in investigating and combating autonomous separatist activities./.

ASEAN Eco-Schools Award launched in Việt Nam

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in coordination with the Office of the ASEAN Senior Officials on the Environment (ASOEN) in Việt Nam and relevant units, held a ceremony on October 14 to launch the ASEAN Eco-Schools Việt Nam Award 2024.

Representatives from nearly 100 schools in Hà Nội attended the event in person, while those from over 200 schools across the country joined online.

The award winners will be selected based on three criteria that include their action plan and specific programme on environmental protection; curriculum and main and extracurricular activities on the environment; and environmental protection facilities and activities in the community. Entries must be submitted by November 10, 2024, at www.ecoschool.vn, and also sent to ecoschoolsvietnam@gmail.com.

The ASEAN Eco-Schools Award is one of the activities under the framework of the ASOEN assigned to each country to organise. The winning schools will be honoured on the sidelines of the ASOEN Conference or the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment.

Held every four years, the award is presented to outstanding primary and secondary schools in ASEAN member countries to recognise those with best practices in the green school programme and to encourage the participation of other schools in implementing green initiatives. The first ASEAN Eco-Schools Award was held in Malaysia in July 2012.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Lê Công Thành emphasised that students play an especially important role in environmental protection. They not only carry out specific actions in their daily lives to protect the environment but also help spread the message of environmental protection to family, friends and the community, becoming positive role models who encourage adults to think and act for the environment.

Gov't, NA leaders co-chair conference on preparation for 15th legislature’s 8th session

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man on October 15 co-chaired a conference on preparation for the 8th session of the 15th legislature, scheduled to open on October 21.

Speaking at the event, PM Chinh affirmed that the Government will make all-out efforts to prepare documents for submission to the NA at the 8th session, and asked Government and NA agencies to closely coordinate in the work.

Pointing out achievements over the past nine months, with stable macro-economy, controlled inflation, and GDP growth at 6.82%, he stressed the need for the Government and the legislature to work together in order to support the economy and people as a host of challenges are forecast for the time ahead.

In his remarks, NA Chairman Man stressed the importance of the session, during which legislators will discuss and make decisions on various matters to promptly untangle knots in terms of institutions and policies and unleash resources so as to spur the country's socio-economic development, and ensure national defence-security, as well as people’s living standards.

Highlighting the tightened, effective coordination between Government and NA agencies, the top legislator urged them to show stronger resolve to fulfill their assigned tasks, ensuring the quality of to-be-adopted laws and resolutions.

He also emphasised the need to step up the communications work before, during, and after the 8th session to provide relevant updates for NA deputies, voters, and people.

According to Minister-Chairman of the Government Office Tran Van Son, the 8th session of the 15th NA will look into various matters, mainly regarding law-building, socio-economic affairs, state budget, and personnel affairs./.

NA Chairman celebrates female lawmakers’ contributions

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man met with a group of full-time female lawmakers and high-ranking female officials from the NA Office and the Institute of Legislative Studies in Hanoi on October 15, ahead of the 94th founding anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Union and Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20).

With nearly 50 million women constituting 50.1% of the national population and a labour force participation rate of 78.2%, Vietnam stands out globally for its high female political participation. The election for the 15th NA and the People's Councils for the 2021-2026 tenure saw a historic milestone, with 151 women being elected as deputies or 30.26% of the total, a record high since the 11th legislature.

In his address, NA Chairman Man lauded the remarkable contributions made by NA agencies and Office, including full-time female lawmakers, senior female officials, public servants, and staff of the NA Office and the institute.

He underlined the critical role these women play in shaping the nation's legislative agenda and called for continued dedication and active involvement as the 15th NA's 8th session is scheduled to open on October 21.

Man urged the participants to build on their achievements and proactively engage in NA activities in which, he said, focus on giving opinions serving the NA's consideration and approval of draft laws, resolutions, as well as issuance of mechanisms and policies.

Nguyen Thuy Anh, Chairwoman of the NA Committee for Social Affairs and Chairwoman of the Vietnam Female Deputies Group of the 15th legislature, highlighted the group's impact since its establishment in 2008. She said female deputies have remained closely connected with their voters, conveying public concerns and aspirations to the NA while affirming their roles through various activities. These include law-building, supervision, decision-making on critical national issues, diplomacy, charity, welfare, and socio-cultural activities, which garnered recognition both at home and abroad.

She expressed her gratitude for the support from the NA Chairman and other leaders, which continues to inspire female deputies to amplify women's voices. As they navigate the evolving demands of NA activities, these women serve as a vital bridge linking the NA with the citizens they represent, she said./.

Digital bookshelf dedicated to late Party chief launched

The Su that (Truth) National Political Publishing House on October 15 launched a digital bookshelf on late General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, who passed away in July after spending nearly 57 years as a Party member and 14 years as the Party chief.

In his remarks at the launch in Hanoi, Politburo member and Permanent Member of the CPV Central Committee’s Secretariat Luong Cuong highlighted the late leader as an exceptional figure who made significant contributions to the cause of building and defending the socialist Vietnam.

Cuong said the legacy he left behind offers profound insights into the Doi moi (Renewal) policy, socialism, and the path toward socialism, as well as the importance of applying theory to practical leadership. His practices, observations, and experiences were distilled into theoretical frameworks that helped perfect the Party’s theoretical system on Doi moi. His work reaffirms the Party's leadership as the primary force driving Vietnam's revolutionary success.

Saying that the example set by the late leader serves as a powerful inspiration for Party members and the public alike, Cuong called upon the CPV Central Committee's Commission for Information and Education and other relevant agencies to closely collaborate with the publishing house to effectively promote and bring into play the digital bookshelf.

Associate Professor, Dr Vu Trong Lam, Director and Editor-in-Chief of the publishing house, said the digital book collection is a comprehensive platform powered by modern technology, designed to support the research and study demand of Party members, citizens, and international friends. It features 66 publications, including 46 books from the publishing house and 20 from other publishers.

The collection is systematically organised into two parts, with the first containing books authored by Nguyen Phu Trong throughout his career and the second consisting of works about him. Notably, it also covers a digital condolence book, preserving heartfelt messages from citizens and international friends on his passing.

Its launch not only honours the significant contributions by the late Party chief but also provides a valuable platform for disseminating his important ideological and theoretical legacy for future generations, Lam said./.

Vietnam’s top leader welcomes RoK President's Special Advisor

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam welcomed Chang Ho-jin, Special Advisor on Foreign Affairs and Security to President of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Yoon Suk Yeol, during a reception in Hanoi on October 15.

Lam praised the significance of Chang's working trip, which followed his phone talks with President Yoon on September 3. He thanked Yoon and the RoK Government for their timely support for Vietnam in the wake of the recent Typhoon Yagi.

Chang commended the development of the RoK-Vietnam relations over the past three decades, affirming that the RoK considers Vietnam a key partner in advancing its Strategy for a Free, Peaceful and Prosperous Indo-Pacific, and the Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative.

He expressed confidence that under Lam’s leadership, the Vietnamese people will successfully achieve their set goals and vision.

Conveying a message from President Yoon, Chang emphasised the RoK's desire to become a trustworthy and important partner of Vietnam in the latter's pursuit of becoming a developed and high-income country by 2045.

Beyond political and diplomatic cooperation, the RoK values and wishes to expand economic, trade and investment collaboration, especially in high technology, innovation, transport infrastructure, energy, and national defence-security, while coordinating in global issues of shared concern, the Special Advisor said.

In response, the host leader affirmed that Vietnam considers the RoK one of the top priority partners in its foreign policy.

He also outlined several key directions to foster bilateral ties within the framework of the Vietnam-RoK comprehensive strategic partnership.

Underlining Vietnam's consistent viewpoints on major issues, Lam affirmed that Vietnam always pays attention to and stays ready to actively contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Chang articulated the RoK Government’s stance, underscoring its desire to promote lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Regarding the East Sea issue, both sides agreed on the need to maintain regional peace, stability, cooperation and development, while respecting international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea./.

Việt Nam kickboxing fighters place third in Asia with 11 golds

Việt Nam ended the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Championships with 11 gold medals on October 13 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

On the last day of competition, the Vietnamese bagged five golds from ten fighters in the final matches.

The winners were Huỳnh Thị Kim Vàng in the women's 65kg full contact, Nguyễn Minh Hiếu in the men's 69kg kick light, Hoàng Thị Thùy Giang in the women's 50kg kick light, Huỳnh Văn Tuấn in the men's 54kg K1-style, and Phùng Thị Hồng Thắm in the women's 65kg kick light.

With 11 golds, 11 silvers and 11 bronzes Việt Nam placed third in the overall medal tally.

Uzbekistan took the top spot with 18 golds, followed by Kazakhstan with 15 golds.

"The continental tournament is a good opportunity for Vietnamese fighters to sharpen their skills against strong international rivals. They have learnt a lot for the larger events, including the World Games 2025," said head coach Dương Ngọc Hải.

Organisers will take into account points for all those athletes who took part and offer World Games 2025 slots to the most successful ones.

The games will be held from August 7-17 in Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

Annual Pencak Silat National Championship kicks off in Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu

The annual Pencak Silat National Championship has begun in the coastal province of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu.

Pencak silat, a type of martial arts, is a fighting form that incorporates strikes, grappling and throwing. It is popular in Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philipines.

The week-long competition organised by the Sports Authority of Việt Nam, that began on Saturday, features over 300 contestants from 28 provinces.

There will be two categories: tanding (combat events) and seni (form performances).

Tanding is in the 45-110 kg weight classes and seni includes tunggal (single), ganda (pair), regu (team), and solo creative (single) formats.

Pencak silat involves national and international competitions and it is even part of the biennial SEA Games.

The organisers said the martial art is popular in localities like Hà Nội, Hải Phòng, Hải Dương, Đà Nẵng, and HCM City, and has seen a surge in the number and quality of exponents in recent times.

Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province has said it plans to invest in the sport.

Since coming to Việt Nam circa 1989, pencak silat has become a medal winner for the country at major Southeast Asia and global events.

Last year Vietnamese athletes bagged 20 medals at the Asian Pencak Silat Championship, and in June this year they dominated the 13th ASEAN School Games with nine golds. 

Front plays crucial role in promoting democracy, protecting people’s rights

The Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) has shown strong performance in promoting democracy, increasingly demonstrating its role in representing and protecting the legitimate and legal rights and interests of the people, supervising and providing social criticism, preventing and combating corruption and wastefulness, thus contributing to building a pure and strong Party and administration.

Representing and protecting people’s legal and legitimate rights and interest is one of the important functions of the VFF in its efforts to build the great national solidarity bloc and safeguard the Fatherland.

In the 2019-2024 tenure, the VFF committees collected opinions of people from all walks of life for documents of the Party Congresses at all levels and the 13th National Party Congress, and widely popularised the resolutions of the congresses, while building specific action programmes to bring the resolutions into life.

Implementing its tasks in participating in Party and administration building, the Party Delegation and the Standing Board of the VFF Central Committee have taken part in the development of the project to summarise 15 years of implementing the resolution issued at the fifth plenary of the 10th Party Central Committee on continuing to renovate the method of the Party’s leadership over the operation of the entire political system to submit to the 13th Party Central Committee’s sixth plenary, while building two topics under the project to develop a strategy for building and perfecting the socialist rule of law State of Vietnam until 2030 with a vision to 2045 of the Politburo.

At the local level, the VFF has well performed its role in proposing ideas to and coordinating with the local administrations to organise direct dialogues between the leaders of the Party Committees and administrations and the people, thus seeking solutions to difficulties in a timely manner, creating social consensus, laying the foundation and creating motivations for socio-economic development, protecting the legal and legitimate rights and interests of the people, and contributing to promoting a strong and clean Party and administration.

Opinions were also given to officials and Party members, especially leaders of Party committees and Party organisations, on promoting their pioneering role in implementing Party regulations and State policies and setting good examples in political qualities, morality and lifestyle.

To date, 53 out of the 63 cities and provinces across the country have issued their regulations on direct meetings and dialogues between the leaders of the Party committees and administrations at all levels and the people. Meanwhile, 53 localities have adopted regulations on the responsibilities of Party committees, Party organisations and administrations at all levels in taking opinions from the VFF, socio-political organisations, and the people.

In the 2019-2024 period, the VFF paid great attention to social criticism, contributing to promoting people’s rights to mastery and engagement in the process of building and completing laws, policies, programmes, and plans for socio-economic development of localities and the whole country.

According to Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and President of the VFF Central Committee Do Van Chien, social supervision and criticism play an important role in the activities of the VFF, socio-political organisations, and VFF member organisations. It is a method of exercising people's mastery and an important information channel to contribute to building a clean and strong Party and State, he underlined.

Chien said that during the recent tenure, the VFF has organised 16 social criticism conferences, while its member organisations conducted social criticism on 19 draft documents.

The Front committees of provinces and cities have chaired 85,886 such conferences, during which many critical ideas have been gathered, helping the Party and State perfect policies and laws and decide important matters of the country and localities.

At the same time, as part of its efforts to participate in the prevention of and combat against corruption and other negative phenomena, the VFF Central Committee has issued an action programme to implement the 13th Party Central Committee’s Decision No. 21-KL/TW on strengthening the building and rectification ofthe Party and the political system, resolutely preventing, repelling, and strictly handling officials and Party members who have degraded in their political ideology, ethics, and lifestyle, and who show signs of "self-evolution" and "self-transformation".

The Front has strengthened anti-corruption communications by organising a national press competition in the work.

In the 2019-2024 tenure, the VFF and its member organisations effectively implemented the tasks of preparing for the general election amid complicated COVID-19 pandemic situation, while gathering ideas of voters and people with renovated forms and methods./.

Book Week showcases Việt Nam's achievements

A special book week will focus on new ways of driving Việt Nam forward in terms of technology.

The Book Week, open to public in Hà Nội, aims to foster new ways of thinking, working and interacting, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life and driving positive social changes, according to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Lê Xuân Định.

Deputy Minister Định was speaking at Thursday's opening ceremony for the Science and Technology Book Week 2024.

He emphasised that this year's Book Week is themed 'Knowledge and Technology: A Journey of Innovation' to highlight the central role of science and technology in Việt Nam's drive for modernisation.

"The recent Politburo's decree on science and technology has reaffirmed its pivotal role in driving Việt Nam's growth as the country navigates the complexities of a globalised market economy," said Định.

The Deputy Minister also underscored the ministry's commitment to building a robust scientific and technological information ecosystem, as evidenced by its sustained investment in the National Agency for Science and Technology Information and the Science and Technics Publishing House to empower the innovation community.

Director of the National Agency for Science and Technology Information Trần Đắc Hiến cited the constant evolution of digital platforms and smart devices as significant challenges for librarians, particularly those working in traditional library settings.

He said the organisation will be at the forefront of technological innovation during the Book Week, organising a series of events to showcase cutting-edge tools and applications designed to revolutionise information access within its database system.

The Book Week features a comprehensive collection of print and electronic books highlighting Việt Nam's remarkable achievements since Đổi Mới (The Renewal).

Visitors can explore the works of renowned Vietnamese scientists, politicians and experts, and access the latest research from global databases such as ScienceDirect and Springer. 

High traffic growth on VEC's expressways

The Việt Nam Expressway Corporation (VEC) reported a significant rise in traffic across the expressways it manages, with 50.5 million vehicles using the routes—an increase of 11.3 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, VEC will begin a series of repair projects to address road surface damages on the Nội Bài-Lào Cai, Cầu Giẽ-Ninh Bình, and Đà Nẵng-Quảng Ngãi expressways, aimed at enhancing road quality and ensuring driver safety.

According to VEC’s report, traffic on its expressways continued to grow in the first nine months of the year. The expressways under VEC’s management—Nội Bài-Lào Cai, Cầu Giẽ-Ninh Bình, Đà Nẵng-Quảng Ngãi, and HCM City-Long Thành-Dầu Giây—safely served 50.5 million vehicles.

The HCM City-Long Thành-Dầu Giây Expressway had the highest traffic volume, with 17.6 million vehicles, reflecting a 14.1 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023. The Cầu Giẽ-Ninh Bình Expressway followed with 16.9 million vehicles but had the lowest growth rate at 7.4 per cent.

Ranking third in both traffic volume and growth rate was the Nội Bài-Lào Cai Expressway, which recorded 13.9 million vehicles, marking a 12.2 per cent rise. Despite the highest growth rate of 14.6 per cent, the Đà Nẵng-Quảng Ngãi Expressway saw the lowest traffic volume, with just 2.1 million vehicles.

“In the first nine months of this year, traffic safety on VEC’s expressways was well-coordinated between operating units and law enforcement. Management, operation, and maintenance were effectively handled, ensuring smooth and safe traffic flow,” a VEC representative stated.

Over the past nine months, no major traffic accidents or prolonged congestion occurred on VEC’s expressways. While the number of collisions and injuries dropped significantly—down by 59 collisions and 12 injuries—the number of accidents and fatalities slightly increased, with 31 additional accidents and one more death. Importantly, there was no damage to the road infrastructure.

Congestion remains a challenge on the Nội Bài-Lào Cai, Cầu Giẽ-Ninh Bình, and HCM City-Long Thành-Dầu Giây expressways during holidays and Tết due to increased traffic, accidents, and vehicle breakdowns, with the Đà Nẵng-Quảng Ngãi Expressway being the only exception.

Despite warnings, the issue of vehicles running out of funds in their electronic toll collection accounts has persisted, with more than 480,000 incidents in the past nine months. This has contributed to slower traffic and raised safety concerns at toll stations.

Since 6pm on September 13, 2024, VEC has been offering free road service for vehicles transporting relief supplies to northern provinces affected by Typhoon Yagi and subsequent floods. This service will continue until midnight on October 13, 2024, on all VEC-managed expressways, including Nội Bài-Lào Cai, Cầu Giẽ-Ninh Bình, Đà Nẵng-Quảng Ngãi, and HCM City-Long Thành-Dầu Giây. 

HCM City art camp promotes tài tử performers

A new art camp that aims to preserve tài tử music (a genre of popular music in the South) has opened in the HCM City Cultural Centre and will run to October 18.

It is organised by the Cultural Centre and is part of the municipal authorities’ efforts to keep traditional genres of Southern theatre alive.

The camp has attracted 80 young and veteran artists from local theatres and art clubs.

It is focused on giving financial support to help tài tử performers develop their art.

The artists are encouraged to create new songs and music pieces in topics such as life, love, the country and HCM City.

Outdoor performances are also offered.

Tài tử music originated in southern Việt Nam more than 100 years ago. It is the prototype for vọng cổ (nostalgic tunes) and cải lương (reformed opera), which are often performed during festivals and special occasions in the Mekong Delta region.

The music is performed at traditional festivals, weddings and death anniversaries in the provinces of Cần Thơ, Vĩnh Long, Bạc Liêu, and Cà Mau.

One of the most popular tài tử songs is Dạ Cổ Hoài Lang (Night Drumbeats Cause Longing for Absent Husband), a work written in 1919 by well-known composer Cao Văn Lầu of Bạc Liêu.

The song tells of the love, anguish and pride of a young woman watching her husband fight for the country. It is performed in many drama plays and films.

In 2013, tài tử was recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

HCM City has 84 tài tử clubs, attracting more than 1,220 members.

These clubs offer training courses on folk singing and tài tử music for several thousand children and young people, so that they can learn and understand more about the art.

They also offer training in traditional instruments used in tài tử, such as the kìm (two-stringed guitar), cò (vertical violin with two strings), tranh (16-chord zither), and bầu (monochord zither).

In recent years, the city has offered new projects to help tài tử clubs boost their operations and quality of their shows.

According to Meritorious Artist Hoàng Tấn of District 3’s Tài Tử Club, tài tử clubs attract professional artists who have tried to bring tài tử closer to youngsters and help them understand the role of traditional arts.

“My club’s members are working to build a special playground for youngsters and inspire the preservation of folk culture activities,” he said. 

More than 52 million workers are recorded as having jobs

The labour force aged 15 and over in the third quarter is estimated at 52.7 million, an increase of 114,100 people compared to the previous quarter, according to the General Statistics Office (GSO).

The overall number of people in work across the country has increased by 238,800 people compared to the same period last year.

In the first nine months this year, the labour force aged 15 and over was 52.5 million people, an increase of 210,600 people over the same period last year. The employed number was 51.5 million people, up by 212,000 ones compared to the same period last year.

Director of the Department of Population and Labour Statistics under the GSO, Phạm Hoài Nam, said that while the number of employed workers tended to increase, the labour market development was not sustainable when the number of informal workers accounted for a large proportion.

The total number of informally employed workers in the third quarter was 33 million, accounting for 63.9 per cent of the total employed workers.

It was down 1.3 per cent compared to the previous quarter and down 1.1 per cent compared to the same period last year.

In the first nine months, the rate of informally employed workers was 64.6 per cent, down 0.3 per cent compared to the same period last year.

The average income of workers in the third quarter was up by VNĐ176,000 ($7) compared to the previous quarter and up by VNĐ519,000 ($20) compared to the same period last year.

The average income of workers in urban areas was VNĐ9.3 million ($370) per month, while in rural areas it was VNĐ6.6 million ($260) per month.

Director Nam said: “The labour market continues to recover, however, the labour quality still has many shortcomings and limitations, not meeting the demand of a modern, flexible, sustainable and integrated labour market.”

To date, about 37.6 million workers have not received primary training or over, while nationwide only bout 28.5 per cent of workers have been certified as having training.

According to the Global Employment Trends for Youth 2024 report of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the global youth unemployment rate last year was 13 per cent and is forecasted to decline to 12.8 per cent this year and next year.

In Việt Nam, the unemployment rate of young people aged 15-24 in the third quarter this year was 7.75 per cent, lower than the global average, but still high. Compared to the general unemployment rate, the youth unemployment rate is always higher.

“The youth force is often equipped with better knowledge and higher qualifications. They have more opportunities to choose, so they do not participate in the labour market. They may not accept low-income temporary jobs and will delay until they find a suitable job,” said Nam. 

Quảng Ninh develops reforestation plan following Typhoon Yagi

Quảng Ninh is preparing to deal with forests and trees damaged in Typhoon Yagi, as the dried-out and highly flammable dead plant materials may lead to forest fires.

The news was disclosed by Nguyễn Thanh Khương, Director of Quảng Ninh Province’s Forestry Protection Department, who added that approximately six million tonnes of tree trunks, branches, roots and leaves are drying out in forests damaged by the typhoon.

Statistics show that more than 117,000 hectares of forest in Quảng Ninh have been damaged by the typhoon, with damage levels ranging from 30 to 100 per cent. These forests, mostly consisting of pine, acacia and eucalyptus trees, have been severely affected, with many trees snapped at the trunk, branches broken and all leaves stripped, rendering them incapable of recovery.

Since September 28, nine forest fires have occurred in the province, affecting more than 57 hectares. Local authorities have mobilised over 1,300 individuals, including forest rangers, police, military personnel and local forces, to actively participate in firefighting efforts.

Localities have launched campaigns to clean up and collect usable forest products from the damaged areas. Nghiêm Xuân Cường, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee, urged local authorities and units to swiftly design firebreaks to prevent the spread of fires and mobilise forces and resources based on the 'four on-the-spot' principle. For areas with limited manpower or large-scale damage, he called for detailed plans to be developed and reported to the provincial government for reinforcement.

Quảng Ninh is implementing urgent fire prevention and control measures such as increasing patrols, providing guidance on fire prevention and maintaining a 24/7 readiness to respond to forest fire incidents.

Simultaneously, the province is preparing a plan for forest restoration. Vũ Duy Văn, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, stated that the agricultural sector has proposed a reforestation strategy to the provincial government. The focus will shift from fast-growing trees to long-lasting timber trees and indigenous species. Localities are drafting plans to replant the damaged forests, ensuring that forest coverage returns to pre-typhoon levels by 2027.

To support the livelihoods of forest growers and "short-term economic crops for long-term gain," local authorities are guiding forest owners to select short-cycle, high-value crops while also replanting forests with indigenous and large timber trees.

On July 10, the Quảng Ninh Provincial People’s Council issued a resolution that outlines specific policies to encourage sustainable forestry development. The province provides up to VNĐ20 million (US$804) per hectare per cycle for seedling purchases and maintenance, as well as VNĐ400,000 ($16) per hectare for planning large timber tree plantations and under-canopy production. The government also allocates up to VNĐ20 million per hectare for military units engaged in large timber reforestation.

The province is also offering trust-based loans through the Social Policy Bank for members of cooperatives, households and individuals. Loan amounts are based on approved reforestation plans but will not exceed VNĐ30 million ($1,200) per hectare. Loan interest rates match those for poor households, as set by the Prime Minister, and the maximum loan term is 25 years, with no principal repayment required for the first five years. 

Vietnamese in Germany donate another US$220,000 for flood victims

The Federation of Vietnamese Associations in Germany has raised over 200,887 EUR (US$220,000) 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 Hồ Đức Phớc on October 9 on the occasion his working trip to the European nation. This lifts the total to 400,000 EUR.

Deputy PM Phớc, 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 Vũ 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 Việt Nam 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 Nguyễn Văn Hiển 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 Việt Nam and Germany, and promoting the image of Vietnam and its people in the international arena. 

Chinese Spokesperson highlights Premier’s official visit to Vietnam

Premier Li Qiang’s official visit to Vietnam - his first to the Southeast Asian nation since he took office, produced positive outcomes, Spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Mao Ning said on October 14.

Speaking at a regular press conference of the ministry, the official stated that the visit underscores the strategic significance of building a community with a shared future between the two countries.

The Vietnamese Party and Government emphasised that they always consider relations with China a strategic choice and a top priority in their foreign policy, she said.

According to Mao, the two sides agreed that the development of one country presents an opportunity for the other’s development and serves as a positive factor for regional and global development.

They reaffirmed their commitment to viewing bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, persistently supporting each other in promoting socialism and modernisation with unique characteristics of each country.

They also pledged to well realise the common and important perceptions reached between the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, and advance the building of the community with a shared future towards more practical outcomes, she went on.

The official noted that during the Chinese leader’s visit, the two sides reaffirmed their principled positions on major issues; and agreed to intensify coordination and cooperation within multilateral mechanisms, advance cooperation within the three global initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative; and jointly support a multipolar, equitable, and orderly world, as well as comprehensive and inclusive economic globalisation.

Mao highlighted the consensus reached between the two sides to deepen their comprehensive strategic cooperation, saying that this is one of the key outcomes of the visit.

According to the official, China and Vietnam will promote the alignment of their development strategies; and accelerate "hard connectivity" in developing railways, highways, and border infrastructure, as well as "soft connectivity" through smart customs systems.

The two sides will strongly support enhancing facilitation for trade and investment activities, ensuring a safe and stable supply chain. They will actively explore and implement pilot projects for building cross-border economic cooperation zones; and expand cooperation in emerging sectors such as information technology, new energy, digital economy, and critical minerals.

Additionally, the two countries will effectively organise activities to mark the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations, and the "Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchange” in 2025, she said./.

Second Vietnam-Laos border defence friendship exchange to take place next week

The second Vietnam-Laos border defence friendship exchange is scheduled for October 22-23, expected to help enhance the special relations of solidarity and friendship between the two countries, heard a press conference on October 15.

It will feature various activities in Vietnam’s northern mountainous province of Son La, and Houaphanh province of Laos. They include welcome ceremonies, tree planting, a joint exercise on cross-border crime combat, gift hand-over, a cross-border marathon, free health check-ups and medicine distribution, and art performances. The two sides will also hold talks and sign cooperation documents.

As one of the key defence diplomacy events of the Vietnam People's Army (VPA) this year, the exchange is hoped to contribute to maintaining peace, stability, and development in the region and the world, said Colonel Tong Van Thanh, deputy head of the Department of Information and Training at the VPA’s General Department of Politics, who will chair the event.

It will also help reinforce political trust, build and foster friendship and special solidarity, and promote practical practical cooperation between Vietnamese and Lao border guards, as well as local authorities and border residents, thus help build a border of peace, friendship, stability, cooperation, and development, he said.

Colonel Vongxay Inthakham, Defence Attaché of Laos to Vietnam, said the exchange offers a chance for the two countries’ people to raise their awareness of national defence and contributions by armies to stability and development in the border area.

Chinese Premier’s official visit to Vietnam a success: Diplomat

The official visit to Vietnam by Chinese Premier Li Qiang was a success, Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei has said.

Talking to the Vietnamese press to share his insights on the outcomes of the Chinese leader’s visit, the diplomat highlighted the significance of the trip to the bilateral relations, saying that both sides attach importance to the event.

According to the ambassador, Li’s visit took place right in the first year of implementing the important consensus between the top leaders of the two Parties and promoting the building of the China - Vietnam community with a shared future.

It was also the first by a Chinese Premier to Vietnam in 11 years and marked the first time Li visited Vietnam since taking office, he added.

On the evening of October 12, shortly after arriving in Hanoi, Premier Li was welcomed by and met with Vietnamese Party General Secretary and President To Lam.

A day later, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh presided over an official welcome ceremony for the Chinese leader, spent significant time engaging in talks with and hosting a banquet for him, witnessing a ceremony to exchange cooperation agreements, and participating in a business seminar between enterprises of the two countries, along with other activities. National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man also held a meeting with Premier Li. Vietnam and China issued a joint statement, featuring a wide range of contents.

All of these fully reflect the nature of the special friendship as “both comrades and brothers” between China and Vietnam, the ambassador said, adding that the two sides agreed that the visit produced fruitful outcomes and played a positive role in advancing the building of the China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

The outcomes of the visit are reflected in three key aspects, Ambassador He said.

Firstly, the visit contributed to further strengthening mutual political trust between the two sides. During talks and meetings, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to prioritising the development of bilateral relations as a strategic choice for each other; and emphasised that the development of one country presents an opportunity for the other’s development and serves as a positive factor for regional and global development. The two sides also agreed to fully implement the common and important perceptions reached between the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, advancing the China-Vietnam community with a shared future towards practical outcomes in accordance with the "six more" direction. The visit also underscored the leading role of the two countries' top leaders in shaping the development of bilateral relations.

Secondly, the visit helped further step up substantive cooperation between Vietnam and China, which is already experiencing rapid growth. During meetings, the two sides reached important consensus on continuing to expand economic and trade cooperation while promoting "hard connectivity" in areas such as railways, highways, and seaport infrastructure; as well as "soft connectivity" such as smart customs. The two sides also successfully organised a thematic conference between representatives of Chinese and Vietnamese businesses, facilitating deeper cooperation within the business communities of the two countries. And

Thirdly, the visit contributed to creating a comprehensive consensus on the friendship between the peoples of the two countries. The media in both nations swiftly covered the visit, reflecting the positive momentum in Vietnam-China relations and promoting the spread of friendly consensus from the high to the grassroots level. Leaders of the two countries reached an important common perception on strengthening the dissemination of the China-Vietnam friendship, fostering mutual understanding between the two peoples, and supporting exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Vietnamese localities, especially those in border areas. The two sides also engaged in frank and in-depth discussions on issues at sea. They strongly agreed to abide by the principle of managing differences through friendly consultations and have full confidence in the future of China-Vietnam relations, the diplomat stated.

As the newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam, He shared insights and observations about the current relationship between the two countries and the potential for further development across various fields in the future.

The strategic guidance of the top leaders of the two Parties and states serves as the "balancing point" in the bilateral relations, he noted

Reviewing the top-level visits between the two countries over the past three years and emphasising the foundation-laying role by the predecessors in fostering sincere friendship and deep revolutionary ties, Ambassador He expressed his belief that Vietnamese leaders will inherit and promote the legacy left by the previous generations of leaders, thus further promoting the traditional friendship between the two countries, and working together to build the Vietnam – China community with a shared future that carries strategic significances.

The establishment of the community with a shared future has made a promising start, with substantive cooperation becoming a "growth point" in bilateral relations.

China is Vietnam's largest trade partner. Two-way trade has exceeded 200 billion USD for three consecutive years. In the first eight months of this year, the trade hit 167 billion USD, up 19.2% year-on-year.

According to the diplomat, in the first seven months of 2024, the China-Vietnam freight train service set three new records for monthly cargo volume. Additionally, the construction of the cross-border railway route between China and Vietnam has been accelerated to promote regional connectivity.

With its experience in structural transformation and economic development, China is willing to share its knowledge with Vietnam, helping the Southeast Asian country avoid detours and move toward industrialisation and modernisation more effectively, He said.

He expressed his belief that as long as the two sides have trust, patience, and determination, many challenging problems can be solved.

People-to-people exchanges and cultural interactions between the two countries hold immense potential and are regarded as a "treasure" in the bilateral relations, he stressed.

According to the ambassador, there are currently about 23,000 Vietnamese students studying in China, doubling the number before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.

In terms of tourism, in the first eight months of 2024, Vietnam welcomed 2.4 million Chinese visitors, accounting for 21.4% of the total international arrivals, making China the second-largest source market of international tourists to Vietnam. There are more than 200 round-trip flights between the two countries each week.

Next year will mark the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Vietnam, as well as the "Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchange”, so the two sides should seize these opportunities to strengthen a more solid social foundation, further promoting their traditional friendship so that the friendship between the two peoples become a “catalyst” for the bilateral relations, the diplomat said./.

Vietnam, Argentina strengthen exchanges

Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Ngo Minh Nguyet had a meeting on October 14 with Justicialist Party (PJ)'s International Relations Department head, former Minister of Defence and Foreign Relations of Argentina Jorge Taiana who expressed admiration for the unceasing development of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements in recent decades.

The two sides highlighted the significance of maintaining and promoting the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Argentina for the prosperity of the two countries.

They affirmed their commitment to promoting exchanges and cooperation between the PJ and the CPV through delegation exchanges between the two countries.

The same day, Ambassador Nguyet, who also covers Uruguay and Paraguay, joined Ambassadors to Vietnam of Argentina Marcos Antonio Bednarski, Brazil Marco Farani, and Uruguay Raúl Juan Pollak in the ASEAN-Mercosur (Southern Common Market) Dialogue held online for participants in Buenos Aires, Montevideo, and Hanoi.

The dialogue was jointly organised by the Catholic University of Uruguay (UCU) and the Foreign Trade University (FTU), drawing a large number of students and lecturers of the two universities.

Participants discussed opportunities to promote cooperation and economic and trade collaboration among Mercosur and ASEAN member countries, especially Vietnam.

First held in 2016, the ASEAN-Mercosur Dialogue aims to promotes economic, trade, and academic exchange activities between member countries in the two blocs, contributing to improving the quality of human resources and expanding international cooperation opportunities./.

PM hosts Governor of Japan's Gunma prefecture

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hosted a reception in Hanoi on October 14 for visiting Governor of Gunma prefecture Yamamoto Ichita and representatives of 25 businesses from the Japanese locality.

The PM expressed his belief that the visit will contribute to enhancing cooperation between Gunma and Vietnam and materialising the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, established in late 2023.

Noting with pleasure the strong, substantive, and effective developments of the bilateral ties across spheres with high political trust, Chinh said he and PM Shigeru Ishiba had committed to advancing the relationship, making its more intensive, comprehensive, and effective, during their recent meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summits in Laos.

The leader lauded the determination, efforts, and initiatives by the Governor and Gunma’s authorities in enhancing the relations with Vietnam over the past time, especially with its Ha Nam province, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam; and in promoting the Vietnam-Japan University project.

He also highlighted their incentives towards nearly 12,000 Vietnamese in the prefecture.

Briefing the guests on Vietnam’s major socio-economic achievements in the first nine months of this year, Chinh stressed that the Vietnamese Government is pushing ahead with administrative reform, and strategic infrastructure development, particularly transport infrastructure, in order to reduce logistics and input costs for businesses and raise goods competitiveness.

The PM suggested Gunma and the Governor continue to foster cooperation with Vietnamese localities, including Ha Nam, through specific projects that optimise their strengths.

Vietnam stands ready to facilitate the investment and operation of Gunma enterprises, he said, urging the prefecture to encourage its firms to invest more in the country in such areas as high-tech agriculture, processing, manufacturing, and supporting industries.

The PM also suggested stronger cooperation in high-quality personnel training, education, culture and cultural industries, people-to-people exchange, and connectivity between universities, calling on Gunma to receive more Vietnamese interns and workers.

He called for enhanced collaboration and the sharing of experience in restructuring the economy in a more sustainable fashion, and promoting digital transformation, green transition, circular economy, and sharing economy.

For his part, Yamamoto said he is interested in strengthening cooperation with Vietnam, particularly in high-quality workforce, appreciating the country’s great investment opportunities and the outstanding development of its localities, including Ha Nam.

According to the Governor, many participating enterprises have decided to invest in Vietnam, while many others expressed their interest in the investment, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Yamamoto said he hopes for intensified cooperation with Vietnam in economy and investment, especially digital transformation, personnel training, labour, and cultural exchange. He vowed to encourage local businesses to invest in Vietnam, especially in developing onsen resorts./.

Party, State leader honours Quang Tri’s brave martyrs

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam paid floral tribute and offered incense to fallen heroes at Quang Tri Ancient Citadel special relic site in the central province of Quang Tri on October 15.

He was accompanied by Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Van Giang and Minister of Public Security Sen. Lieut. Gen. Luong Tam Quang, and other senior officials of ministries and central agencies, along with those from Quang Tri province.

Lam and his entourage observed a minute of silence to remember fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives during the fierce 81-day-and-night campaign to defend the Quang Tri Citadel and Quang Tri town in 1972. This historic battle played a pivotal role in the success at the negotiating table, leading to the Paris Agreement in 1973, and ultimately paving the way for the rapid and powerful offensive that culminated in the historic Spring Victory of 1975, fully liberating the South and reunifying the country.

The delegation also laid wreaths and offered incense at the Road 9 National Martyrs’ Cemetery, the final resting place of over 10,800 heroes and martyrs who lost their lives on the Road 9 front, Quang Tri battlefield, and in neighbouring Laos during the resistance war against the US.

They also paid their respects at the Truong Son National Martyrs’ Cemetery - the final resting place of 10,263 martyrs, primarily from Brigade 559.

Earlier, Lam and his delegation visited the memorial site in Hau Kien village, Trieu Thanh commune, Trieu Phong district to pay homage to late Party General Secretary Le Duan. They expressed profound gratitude for his immense contributions to the national liberation and reunification./.

Greek diplomat honoured with friendship insignia

Greek Ambassador to Vietnam Georgios Stilianopoulos has been honoured with the “For Peace and Friendship Among Nations” insignia of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO) in recognition of his contributions to promoting the bilateral relations.

Addressing the ceremony in Hanoi on October 15, VUFO President Phan Anh Son applauded the diplomat for his contributions to strengthening multi-faceted cooperation between the two countries.

The ambassador and the Embassy connected and coordinated with Vietnamese agencies to successfully organise visits and all-level exchanges between the two countries, especially the official visit to Vietnam by Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou in May 2022, Foreign Minister Nikolaos Dendias’s trip to the Southeast Asian country in August 2022, and the official visit to Greece by Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan in November 2021.

Education, healthcare, sports, labour, and maritime sector cooperation activities were also strengthened during his tenure, which was noted by the President.

The diplomat has also actively promoted the export of high-quality agricultural products from Greece to Vietnam, and sped up the signing of a MoU on migration and labour mobility between the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum and the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA) of Vietnam.

Son expressed is wishes that Stilianopoulos, in any position, will continue to contribute to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Expressing his honour to serve as the Greek Ambassador to Vietnam, Stilianopoulos emphasised that, as one of the countries that ratified the EU-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Framework Agreement (PCA), Greece supported the prompt approval of the EU – Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and ratified the Vietnam-EU Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

He hoped Vietnam will strengthen relations with the EU, and expected Greece to be a gateway for Vietnamese goods to enter member countries of the union.

He took the occasion to thank the VUFO and competent Vietnamese agencies and partners for their effective support and cooperation, affirming that he will do his best to further foster bilateral relations./.

Quang Ngai strives to eliminate all temporary, dilapidated houses in 2025

The central province of Quang Ngai has set a target to eliminate all temporary and dilapidated houses in 2025, said Standing Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Tran Hoang Tuan.

The province will also strive to provide support to revolution contributors who have difficulties in housing.

By 2022, the province had 21,138 poor and near-poor households with substandard housing area and quality. Since 2022, Quang Ngai has provided support to repair and build over 7,000 houses for poor and near-poor households.

Of the financial support, funds from national programmes on sustainable poverty reduction were used to repair and build 4,281 houses.

Meanwhile, resources from the State, Vietnam Fatherland Front at all levels and organisations in the province were mobilised to repair and build houses for 2,721 households.

According to the provincial People’s Committee, more than 4,000 poor and near-poor households in the province will get support to repair and build houses in 2025 with funding from national programmes.

The other 8,000 poor and near-poor households in the province still need to repair their houses or build new ones. Of these, 4,161 households have not had houses or are living in temporary or dilapidated houses while 3,704 poor households in rural areas and flood-prone areas need to build or repair houses.

To realise the housing target, Quang Ngai continues to mobilise resources from the "Fund for the Poor", the "Fund to Eliminate Temporary/Dilapidated Houses"; and receive the support of organisations, individuals, units, and enterprises, the official said, adding that the province has stepped up communications and encouraged people to make efforts to escape poverty and build houses by themselves.

The provincial People's Committee proposed the Standing Board of the provincial Party Committee establish a provincial steering committee for the elimination of temporary and dilapidated houses, Tuan said.

Districts and communes will also have set up similar steering committees, which are expected to help the province realise the target of eliminating all temporary and dilapidated houses by the end of 2025, he added./.

Vietnam Week in US helps promote Vietnamese cultural heritage

The Vietnam Week 2024 has been held in Washington D.C, the US, from October 4-12, aiming to honour the country’s rich cultural heritage, enrich Vietnamese-American people's identity and commend the achievements of the Vietnamese-American community.

Attendees were treated to a display of the Nguyen Dynasty's royal costumes, learned about woodblock prints of 'Truyen Kieu' (The Tale of Kieu), folk songs, and ancient proverbs, and enjoyed dishes with a strong Hue culinary flavour.

Andrew Well Dang, an expert on Vietnam at the US Institute of Peace (USIP), said Vietnam boasts a rich and diverse culture shaped by its long history which needs to be introduced to the world. This programme has presented many aspects in a way that resonates with the American public, he added.

Erin Stenhauer Phuong, founder of the Vietnam Society, said that the event helps enhance community cohesion to preserve the traditional values of Vietnamese culture.

A heritage and peace youth forum was also organised within the framework of the event, which empowers young Vietnamese-Americans and young Vietnamese people who are living, studying, and working in the US to share their ideas and visions for the future.

Experts from the US Institute of Peace, scholars, and representatives from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam were invited to participate in a roundtable discussion with the youth, aiming to build a shared vision for a prosperous and peaceful Vietnam./.

Vietnam bags 11 gold medals at 2024 Asian Kickboxing Championships

Vietnam's kickboxing team secured 11 gold, 11 silver and 11 bronze medals at the 2024 Asian Kickboxing Championships that took place in Cambodia from October 8-13.

With these achievements, Vietnam ranked third in the medal table, after Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

The Vietnamese kickboxing team consists of 10 coaching staff members and 29 players competing in 34 events. Vietnamese players entered 22 final competitions of the tournament.

General Secretary of the Kickboxing Federation of Vietnam (KFC) Duong Ngoc Hai said that the tournament was a great opportunity for Vietnamese players to compete in the largest continental arena, so they can learn, accumulate competition experiences, and prepare for upcoming international tournaments, particularly the World Games.

He said that at the tournament, many Vietnamese players performed well, such as Huynh Van Tuan, Le Thi Nhi, and Nguyen Thi Ngoc Ngan./.

Outstanding Vietnamese farmers, cooperatives honoured

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man on October 14 attended a ceremony to honour outstanding Vietnamese farmers and cooperatives nationwide in 2024 on the occasion of the 94th anniversary of the Vietnam Farmers' Union (October 14, 1930 - 2024).

Speaking at the event, the top legislator said the union has been growing, making great contributions to the national revolutionary cause and development.

The agricultural sector has grown rapidly, becoming a pillar of the national economy, and contributing to curbing inflation, stabilising the macro-economy, ensuring social welfare, and effectively supporting industrial, trade and service development.

The individuals honoured have made outstanding performance in production, business, new-style rural area building, sustainable poverty reduction, and the national security protection campaign, he said, noting many of them are honoured for their innovations and inventions that have been successfully put in place.

The leader hailed efforts and achievements by the union, its officials and members, as well as agricultural cooperatives across the country.

The NA Chairman urged the union and its all-level chapters to the step up the communications work to popularise the Party's guidelines and the State's policies and laws on agriculture, farmers, and rural areas.

He noted that it’s a must to have a new mindset, new methods, and new determination, as well as encouragement and support to production and businesses households and agricultural cooperatives that play the core role in socio-economic development in rural areas, especially in disadvantaged mountainous areas and those mainly inhabited by ethnic minority groups.

On this occasion, the leader urged all-level Party Committees, authorities, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and political-social organisations to take solutions in order to boost agricultural development and promote new-style rural area building, while facilitating the operation of the union./.

Vietnam, China hold 23rd youth friendship meeting

The 23rd Vietnam - China youth friendship meeting kicked off in Nanning city, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, on October 14.

In his opening remarks, A Dong, First Secretary of the Secretariat of the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) Central Committee, said the increase of exchanges and cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese youths will create a young and strong impetus for realising the two countries’ 100-year goals and building the China - Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

The CYLC is ready to cooperate with the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU) to implement the common agreements reached between the leaders of the two Parties and the two countries, thus leading young people of both countries to exert efforts to write a new chapter about the youth responsible for building the community with a shared future, he noted.

Bui Quang Huy, alternate member of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, First Secretary of the HCYU Central Committee and Chairman of the National Committee for Vietnamese Youth, highlighted the intensification of the two countries’ comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, exemplified by the vision of building the Vietnam - China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

He held that together with the development of the bilateral friendship, thanks to attention and directions from leaders of the two Parties and the two countries, the cooperation, solidarity, and friendship between the CYLC and the HCYU have been increasingly enhanced, generating practical benefits for the young of both nations. At the opening ceremony, the HCYU Central Committee and the CYLC Central Committee signed a memorandum of understanding. Meanwhile, the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs’ Association and the China International Youth Exchange Centre inked a framework agreement on strengthening cross-border economic cooperation.

The two sides also announced that a bilateral youth exchange will be organised on the occasion of the Year of Vietnam - China Humanistic Exchange 2025.

Also on October 14, an HCYU delegation paid a courtesy visit to leaders of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Liu Ning, member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the regional CPC Committee, held that with strong support from the two countries’ leaders, friendship exchanges and cooperation between the Chinese and Vietnamese youths will become more extensive and fruitful.

He said that next year, Vietnam and China will celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties and organise the Year of Humanistic Exchange. Guangxi will hold many meaningful activities to mark these events.

The host voiced his hope that many young Vietnamese will come to take part in those activities.

Stressing the cooperation between the two youth organisations, Huy noted that over the past years, they have stepped up exchanges and collaboration, which have practically benefited the youths in both countries and helped reinforce the traditional friendship between the two countries' people, thereby contributing to the healthy and stable development of the Vietnam - China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

The HCYU always treasures the friendship and cooperation with the CYLC, he stated.

He also took this occasion to suggest some cooperation activities with the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. In particular, he proposed local leaders continue facilitating the regional CYLC committee’s coordination with the HCYU committees of four Vietnamese border provinces, namely Cao Bang, Ha Giang, Lang Son, and Quang Ninh, to hold border youth exchanges; consider expanding ties with the HCYU committees of other Vietnamese localities; and create conditions for Vietnamese youths and students to live and study in Guangxi./.

Saint Paul Hospital provides free diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal deformities in paediatric patients

Saint Paul General Hospital in Hà Nội has been holding screenings and surgery programmes for children under 16 years old with birth defects and musculoskeletal diseases.

This is part of the hospital's annual international cooperation plan to improve the quality of diagnosis and treatment for patients, while also facilitating the exchange of professional experience with the world's leading medical experts.

According to Dr Nguyễn Minh Đức, head of the hospital's upper and lower limb Orthopaedics Department, treating congenital defects is still a big challenge, especially when many children come to the hospital with deformities.

"Early screening and timely intervention are key factors in treating complex deformities. However, resources and expertise from international experts will help us improve treatment capabilities, especially with complicated cases," said Dr Đức.

In the programme, six leading doctors in the field of paediatric orthopaedics from Spain, the US and China, led by Dr Francisco Soldado, Head of the Department of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery at Vall d'Hebron Hospital (Barcelona, ​​Spain), participated in consultation, consultation and surgery on difficult cases.

Dr Francisco Soldado is known as one of the world's leading experts in paediatric orthopedic microsurgery, especially in the treatment of complex upper limb deformities and brachial plexus paralysis. He has been collaborating with the hospital since 2022, bringing many positive results in treating paediatric patients with serious deformities.

The examination and surgery programme provided an opportunity for the hospital’s doctors to upskill with the most advanced treatment techniques in the field of paediatric orthopaedics. In particular, consultation and surgery on complex cases with a team of international experts will help domestic doctors have the opportunity to learn and apply in-depth knowledge to treat patients in Việt Nam.

In addition, Vietnamese and international experts will also organise professional exchanges, update new treatment methods, as well as discussing complex cases.

New knowledge and techniques shared in these seminars will contribute to improving the quality of treatment for paediatric patients at the hospital while strengthening long-term cooperative relationships with international partners.

This marks an important step in the professional development journey of Saint Paul General Hospital, helping the hospital continuously improve the quality of medical services and bring better treatment opportunities to Vietnamese children.

Leveraging spatial data for national planning and governance

Spatial data infrastructure (SDI) has been leveraged in administrative reforms for socio-economic development, environment protection and ultimately e-Government management.

Multiple Vietnamese state agencies and departments have been carrying out projects to establish their SDI and geographic information systems (GIS).

Trần Anh Tuấn, head of the technology division of the Department of Survey, Mapping and Geographic Information (DOSM) under the Ministry of National Resources and Environment, said that leveraging spatial data in shared infrastructure fosters an environment for cooperation and information sharing, while ensuring technical comprehensiveness.

Việt Nam has developed important policies and frameworks to promote SDI, such as the Law on Survey and Mapping, as well as a national development strategy which focuses on building a national geospatial data infrastructure by 2030.

The DOSM is building and managing the national SDI to ensure data sharing and integration with other state agencies and between localities for the development of e-Government, or online public services.

In the long term, this will contribute to the digital economy and a digital society, as well as connect with the regional SDI network.

Following the Prime Minister’s Decision No 40/QĐ-TTg dated January 9, 2020 on building and completing the national spatial database, the DOSM has developed geographic mapping at scales of 1:100,000, 1:250,000, 1:500,000 and 1:1,000,000, which will contribute to the national SDI.

Localities are also actively updating geographic data at more detailed scales of 1:2,000 and 1:5,000.

SDI development in Việt Nam requires better application of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and IoT (Internet of Things), said Tuấn.

Strengthening coordination and data sharing between stakeholders are also areas of focus, he said, emphasising the need for investments in technical infrastructure and a specialised workforce.

In addition to promoting technology advancements and infrastructure investments in sharing and integration of national spatial data for governance, socio-economic growth and national defence and security are also of high importance, he added.

The DOSM has completed a trial operation on the Việt Nam Geospatial Information Portal, which is built to support data management, storing and connection for the governance needs of ministries, sectors and localities.

This database is also used in planning, disaster prevention and climate change response.

Once the Việt Nam Geospatial Information Portal begins official operations, it will ensure easy and convenient access to comprehensive national geospatial data.

The platform also offers various services, including data sharing, conversion, analysis, integration, query and downloading.

Traffic police lead the way to take a pregnant woman to emergency ward

Cần Thơ traffic police have used their specialised motorbike to guide a taxi carrying a pregnant woman to hospital for timely emergency care, ensuring safety for both mother and her baby boy.

At 1.40pm on Thursday, a contingent of traffic police were patrolling on the National Highway 1A when they met a taxi travelling from Tiền Giang Province to Cần Thơ City.

The taxi driver told the police that he was carrying a pregnant woman whose amniotic sac had broken and he needed to get her urgently to the hospital. She was travelling alone and in the early stages of a dangerous labour.

After checking and realising the critical situation, the task force commander assigned Lieutenant Colonel Mai Hồng Phong to use a specialised motorbike to guide the taxi carrying the pregnant woman to the Cần Thơ Maternity Hospital for timely emergency care, ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.

On Thursday evening, a representative from the hospital said that the 32-year-old pregnant woman, who lived in Tiền Giang Province, had been on her way to her hometown. But when she reached Cần Thơ Bridge, the amniotic sac suddenly broke and she went into labour.

After being guided to hospital, her baby, the woman's third child, was successfully delivered at 38.4 weeks.

The baby boy was born weighing nearly 3.4kg. The mother and baby are currently in stable condition.

Biên Hòa-Vũng Tàu Expressway project sees cost increase of over $217m

Due to higher land clearance costs and the addition of new interchanges, the total investment for the Biên Hòa - Vũng Tàu Expressway construction project is expected to increase by approximately VNĐ5.4 trillion (US$217.4 million) compared to the initial approved estimate, the Ministry of Transport has announced.

In a report submitted to the National Assembly (NA) on the investment for the project's first phase, Minister of Transport Nguyễn Văn Thắng stated that the first phase of the expressway will span 53.7 kilometres, with 4-6 lanes planned and an investment of over VNĐ17.82 trillion ($717.5 million).

The goal is to complete and integrate the expressway with the eastern section of the North - South Expressway and Long Thành International Airport, while also connecting major economic and port centres.

The project is divided into three sub-projects, all funded by public investment. Sub-project 1, managed by Đồng Nai Provincial People’s Committee, covers approximately 16 kilometres at a preliminary investment of over VNĐ6.01 trillion ($241.9 million).

Sub-project 1 includes two construction packages, which began in June 2023. However, only 38.4 per cent of the 137.64 hectares of required land has been handed over, limiting construction to a few bridge structures and prefabrication of components.

Sub-project 2, overseen by the Ministry of Transport, spans approximately 18.2 kilometres with a preliminary investment of over VNĐ6.85 trillion ($275.8 million). Two construction packages for this sub-project are also underway. To date, 58.05 per cent of the 176.74 hectares of land needed has been cleared, allowing work to begin on some bridge structures, underpasses, drainage systems and a few road sections.

“For sub-projects 1 and 2 in Đồng Nai Province, construction progress has not met expectations due to delays in land handover,” Thắng noted.

Sub-project 3, managed by the Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu Provincial People’s Committee, covers 19.5 kilometres with one construction package and a preliminary investment of over VNĐ4.96 trillion ($199.7 million). The entire site for Sub-project 3 has been handed over, and contractors have begun work across the project, meeting the required progress goals.

According to Government Resolution No90/NQ-CP issued on July 25, 2022, localities were expected to hand over 70 per cent of the land for construction packages by the end of last June and to complete land clearance by the end of last December.

However, in reality, only sub-project 3 has met the land clearance requirements.

Meanwhile, compensation and resettlement efforts for the sub-projects in Đồng Nai Province have been progressing very slowly.

According to reports from localities, land clearance costs for the sub-projects have increased by approximately VNĐ3.26 trillion ($131.2 million) compared to the estimates in the total investment approved under NA Resolution 59/2022/QH15.

Specifically, sub-project 1 will see an increase of VNĐ120 billion ($4.8 million), sub-project 2 an increase of over VNĐ1.27 trillion ($51.1 million) and sub-project 3 an increase of over VNĐ1.87 trillion ($75.2 million).

"The rise in land clearance costs has led to the total project investment exceeding the initial estimate approved by the NA, necessitating adjustments to the investment policy," Thắng said.

Meanwhile, for sub-project 3, the Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu Provincial People’s Committee has proposed adding the Mỹ Xuân - Ngãi Giao interchange to enhance transportation capacity and connect the Cái Mép - Thị Vải Port area with Long Thành International Airport.

This addition would increase costs by an estimated VNĐ1.58 trillion ($63.6 million), including VNĐ768 billion for construction and VNĐ813 billion for land clearance.

As a result, the total project investment is expected to increase by around VNĐ5.4 trillion.

The Ministry of Transport is currently conducting an internal assessment of the project’s adjusted investment policy and preparing to submit it to the relevant authorities as required.

On this basis, the Government has requested the NA and the NA's Standing Committee to address the ongoing issues related to land clearance, resettlement and the relocation of technical infrastructure.

The Government also emphasised the need for solutions to the shortage of construction materials to ensure the project can go ahead as planned.

Furthermore, it has called for close coordination between the Ministry of Transport and other relevant ministries and agencies to strengthen management and supervise the project’s implementation in compliance with legal regulations.

The Government has also requested that the NA consider and approve the project's adjusted investment policy to ensure the availability of capital. 

Implementation of Red River Delta Region Planning approved

Detailed plan for the development of both sides of the Red River has been officially signed off with a focus on connectivity and tackling congestion.

The plan, which aims to complete a framework where business can flourish and will position the area as a leader across multiple sectors, including creation of a digital hub, was signed by the Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà.

The blueprint is for a complete implementation of the Red (Hồng) River Delta Region Planning for the period of 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050.

Under the Decision 1131/QĐ-TTg, the main focus areas of the plan include developing a synchronised, modern infrastructure network with regional, inter-regional, and international connectivity. Positioning the Red River Delta region as a leader in education-training, science, technology, innovation, digital economy, and digital society development; promoting cultural values for socio-economic development, ensuring a balanced and sustainable urban system with strong linkages to rural areas, fostering green, smart growth with climate resilience and addressing environmental challenges, utilising resources efficiently and securing water security.

In terms of developing an integrated, modern infrastructure network with regional, inter-regional, and international connectivity, the focus is on developing the North-South economic corridors along the North-South Expressway (eastern and western routes), National Route 1 (Bắc Ninh-Hà Nội-Ninh Bình), the Hà Nội-Hải Phòng-Quảng Ninh economic corridor, the coastal economic corridor of the Gulf of Tonkin (from Móng Cái City of Quảng Ninh Province to Kim Sơn District of Ninh Bình Province), and National Route 18 (Nội Bài-Hạ Long).

The plan focuses on developing advanced industrial and service sectors, including electronics, software production, artificial intelligence, automotive manufacturing, supporting industries, trade, logistics, finance-banking, tourism, telecommunications and specialised healthcare.

It also aims to expand high-tech and clean agriculture, forming large-scale production areas connected to processing industries and prioritises developing an integrated product chain for cultural tourism, historical sightseeing, recreational coastal tourism and urban tourism in the key tourism areas of Hà Nội-Quảng Ninh-Hải Phòng-Ninh Bình.

The plan will accelerate the completion of key national infrastructure projects with regional connectivity, digital infrastructure, urban infrastructure, urban transport projects, ring roads, radial axes, and static transport systems. It includes developing urban infrastructure in Hà Nội, such as urban rail, underground spaces and addressing traffic congestion and flooding.

Investment will focus on modern, safe telecommunications infrastructure, especially broadband telecommunications, cloud computing, and IoT as well as cultural, sports and tourism projects.

Investment on waste and wastewater collection and treatment facilities is also enhanced.

Regarding establishment of economic zones and industrial parks, the plan aims to develop economic zones, industrial parks, concentrated IT zones and free trade zones based on improved policies, development models, and management systems to create breakthroughs in shifting economic structures and renewing growth models in the region.

To make the Red River Delta lead in education-training, science, technology, innovation, digital economy, and digital society development, the plan includes developing a comprehensive education and training system from preschool to higher education that is modern, integrated, effective, fair and transparent.

Vocational education quality will be enhanced with a flexible and open approach to develop a skilled workforce that meets the requirements of the fourth industrial revolution and international integration.

The plan also includes strengthening the innovation system in the region, promoting a start-up and innovation ecosystem and boosting the capacity of innovation centres and local support centres to facilitate technology transfer and innovation.

A national innovation start-up support centre in Hà Nội and other regional cities and provinces connecting scientific and technological organisations with high-tech zones, high-tech agriculture zones, financial centres, venture capital funds, universities and research institutes will be set up.

Investment in economic zones and industrial parks will be selective, aligned with the development potential of the region and its localities. Priority will be given to projects that use advanced technologies, involve technology transfer, ensure quality, efficient use of resources and labour, provide high added value and integrate into global value chains, adapting to the fourth industrial revolution.

Along with economic development, the plan also focuses on preserving and promoting cultural heritage values for socio-economic development, especially national historical-cultural relics affected by other economic activities, such as historical sites, cultural sites, and scenic spots associated with the Đinh, Lý and Trần dynasties in the nation-building and defence process, and national relics, temples and pagodas.

It also emphasises interconnecting cultural sectors to effectively leverage existing resources while meeting the diverse socio-economic development needs of localities in the region enhancing the role of national-level centres like Hà Nội in cultural activities and developing a cultural industry based on leveraging and promoting historical and traditional values.

The plan aims to establish a regional linkage along the cultural and spiritual heritage sites along the Red River axis, such as Thăng Long-Phố Hiến-Tam Chúc Pagoga -Bái Đính Pagoga – Hương Pagoga, connected with regional transport infrastructure in Hà Nội, and Hưng Yên, Hà Nam and Ninh Bình provinces.

To ensure balanced, sustainable urban development with close connections to rural areas, fostering green, smart growth and climate resilience, the plan prioritises the development of a modern, smart, sustainable urban network that is climate-adaptive that will ensure that the Red River Delta becomes a major urban region with a high urbanisation rate and good living quality, using public transport as a basis for urban planning (following the TOD - transit-oriented development model).

The plan focuses on developing urban areas along the banks of the Red River and other major rivers, meeting flood discharge requirements, disaster prevention, and efficiently using land and space.

It also aims to develop provincial and city administrative centres to enhance connectivity, forming urban chains and accelerating urbanisation.

The plan will implement policies and invest in urban infrastructure projects to alleviate congestion and flooding in major cities, particularly Hà Nội and Hải Phòng and promote satellite urban development.

The city will continue relocating universities and hospitals out of the central Hà Nội area and introduce policies developing social housing for low-income earners, housing in industrial zones for workers, and the construction of cultural facilities, especially for workers in industrial zones. 

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