The northern coastal province of Quang Ninh, home to world heritage site Ha Long Bay, held a ceremony to welcome its three millionth foreign tourists on October 21.

David and Tina from the US arrived at the Ha Long International Passenger Port on the day on Viking Orion cruise ship that travelled from China’s Hong Kong. During their two-day stay, they are set to visit Ha Long bay, Quang Ninh museum and many other tourist attractions.

According to Director of the provincial Department of Tourism Nguyen Huyen Anh, the event marks a milestone for the locality, demonstrating its efforts to overcome Typhoon Yagi aftermath to host visitors with the highest quality services.

Quang Ninh is working to pull in more international arrivals, she said, adding the province will host around 20 international cruise ships by the end of the year.

More than 60 cruise ships are expected to visit Ha Long in the 2024-2025 season, including luxury ones of such renowned brands as Viking Orion, Costa, Seven Seas, Noordam, Celebrity Solstice, and Mein Schiff.

In the first nine months of this year, Quang Ninh received 15.64 million tourists, with more than 2.59 million foreigners. It eyes to host 19 million visitors, comprising over 3.5 million foreign tourists this year, creating growth momentum for 2025 and the subsequent years./.

NA deputies discuss two bills on October 22

National Assembly deputies continue the 8th session of the legislature on October 22, discussing several important issues, including the draft Law on amendments and supplements to a number of articles of the Law on Pharmacy and the draft Data Law.

In the morning, they heard a report on the implementation of the 2024 state budget, the state budget estimates and allocation plan for 2025, and the finance - state budget plans for 2025, 2026 and 2027.

The legislators then heard a report on the explanation, acquirement and adjustment of the draft Law on amendments and supplements to a number of articles of the Law on Pharmacy and discussed the bill at the hall.

In the afternoon, they will listen to a proposal and a verification report on the draft Data Law.

According to the Government, the building of the law aims at ensuring effective use of data for state management, socio-economic development, the building of a digital government, reform, reduction of administrative procedures, and establishment of a national data centre.

The Data Law must be developed on the basis of the concretisation of the Party and State’s policy on national digital transformation and in line with the integration process, serving socio-economic-cultural development and ensuring defence, security and social order.

It stipulates regulations on the building, development, processing and management of data, application of science-technology into data processing, a national database, a national data centre, data-related products and services, state management of data, and the responsibilities of related agencies, organisations and individuals.

The law-makers will also heard a report on the explanation, acquirement and adjustment of the draft Law on Human Trafficking Prevention and Control (revised) and deliberated the bill./.

Leaders of Venezuela, Nicaragua congratulate Vietnam’s new President

Leaders of Venezuela and Nicaragua have extended their congratulations to General Luong Cuong, Politburo member and Permanent member of the 13th Party Central Committee’s Secretariat, on his election as President of Vietnam by the 15th National Assembly on October 21.

In his post on the Instagram social network, President of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) and President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro Moros wrote he would like to send his warmest greetings and congratulations to the newly-elected President of Vietnam.

Following President Ho Chi Minh's testament, Venezuela pledges to continue its efforts to consolidate and enhance relations with Vietnam, he affirmed.

In their congratulations posted on social networks and media, President of the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) and President of Nicaragua Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo wrote that the election once again affirms the heroism and firm belief in President Ho Chi Minh's legacy of patriotism, as well as the confidence in the steadfast leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.

These are also the core values that the FSLN shares in the struggle for a world of peace and solidarity, they affirmed.

Sending wishes for peace and prosperity to the Vietnamese people, the Nicaraguan leaders committed to maintaining their efforts to consolidate the historic friendship and solidarity between the two peoples and governments.

On this occasion, Venezuelan newspapers and media, including the national news agency Agencia Venezolana de Noticias (AVN), the Venezolana de Television TV station, the national radio station Radio Nacional de Venezuela (RNV), CuatroF newspaper, and Venezuela-news, ran articles on the election and posted the full text of President Nicolas Maduro's congratulatory message to his Vietnamese counterpart./.

Vietnam an important partner of Indonesia in region: President Prabowo Subianto

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that Vietnam is an important partner of his country in the region.

At his October 21 meeting with Vietnamese State Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan, the Indonesian leader also said ample room remains for the two countries to boost their cooperation, and that the potential should be optimised to advance the collaboration, both bilaterally and multilaterally.

Xuan, in Indonesia from October 19-21 to attend the inauguration ceremony of the host President, handed over letters of congratulations from Vietnamese Party, State, and Government leaders to Subianto, and commended Indonesia’s great socio-economic achievements.

The two sides rejoiced at the positive and effective developments of the bilateral strategic partnership across spheres, and agreed to step up exchanges and meetings at all levels and through all the channels of Party, State, and exchanges between citizens and localities.

They will also work together to organise activities marking the 70th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties (1955-2025), along with the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day and Vietnam’s National Day next year.

Host and guest consented to soon raise the two-way trade to 18 billion USD and to encourage businesses to invest in respective markets, especially in new areas like Halal industry, digital economy, green economy, green transition, and electric vehicle ecosystem development.

Xuan called on Indonesia to continue facilitating the access of Vietnamese agricultural products and Halal-certified goods to its market, as well as Vietnamese investment in the country.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation in other key areas, including defence and security, transnational-crime combat, and maritime collaboration.

Regarding regional and international issues of shared concern, they concurred to maintain close coordination and mutual support at regional and international forums and organisations. They emphasised the importance of upholding ASEAN unity and centrality in addressing regional matters, particularly the East Sea issue.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing negotiations for a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in line with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

On this occasion, Xuan conveyed invitations from Vietnam’s high-ranking leaders to Subianto to pay a visit to Vietnam soon. The Indonesian President accepted the invitation with pleasure, with the visit to be arranged at an appropriate time./.

GDP growth target of over 7% needs greater efforts: PM

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called for greater efforts to achieve the annual GDP growth target of over 7%, while delivering a report on the implementation of the 2024 socio-economic development plan and another for 2025 at the ongoing 8th session of the 15th National Assembly in Hanoi on October 21.

The Government leader said it is estimated that 14 out of the 15 targets set for this year will be fulfilled, and the per capita GDP target would be met if the GDP growth surpasses 7%.

Notably, the labour productivity growth target, which had not been met for the past three years, has now exceeded the plan, he said, stressing progress in maintaining macro economy stability, taming inflation, ensuring major economic balances, and controlling public, Government, and foreign debts, as well as state budget overspending.

The PM said the national GDP in the first nine months expanded by 6.82% and it is expected to grow 6.8-7% this year, higher than the 6-6.5% assigned by the legislature.

During the reviewed period, the consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.88%, the state budget revenue topped 85% of the annual projection, up 17.9% compared to the same period last year; and the total import-export turnover amounted to 578.5 billion USD, up 16.3%.

The leader touched upon strides in public investment with a focus on key projects, and described foreign direct investment (FDI) as a highlight now that disbursement in this field hit 17.3 billion USD, up 8.9%, the highest in the past years.

He said the economic structure has been shifting towards the digital economy, green economy, with an increasing share of the industrial, construction, and service sectors, noting the industrial sector has rebounded positively, serving as a key growth driver.

Chinh highlighted efforts in sustainable poverty reduction, doing away with temporary and dilapidated houses, and supporting victims of Typhoon Yagi - the strongest to hit Vietnam in decades.

The leader said the Government has focused on streamlining administrative procedures, creating a favourable and healthy business environment, and accelerating digital transformation, the building of a digital Government, and digital economy, while pushing ahead with decentralisation, all-people defence posture, and crime combat.

Another highlight was external affairs and international integration that helps raise the country’s position and reputation in the international arena, he continued.

The PM also pointed out limitations and challenges relating to macro economy stability, production, business, bad debt, public investment disbursement, site clearance, compensation and resettlement, institutions and laws, decentralisation, and personnel quality.

For the remainder of the year, he asked ministries, agencies, and localities to continue harmoniously and effectively implement tasks and solutions, striving to achieve all of the 15 set targets, and keep inflation below 4.5% and credit growth at around 15%. State budget revenue is expected to increase by over 10%, while the disbursement rate of public investment is set to reach at least 95% of the plan.

He urged reviewing and refining the legal framework, pushing forward with administrative reforms and improving the investment and business environment, speeding up national key projects while simultaneously ensuring strong measures against corruption, wastefulness, and other negative phenomena.

More attention should be paid to cultural and social affairs so as to raise people’s living standards as well as national defence, security, and social order, foreign affairs and international integration, he said.

Outlining the 11 key tasks and solutions for 2025, Chinh stressed the need to spur growth, renew traditional growth engines, promote new boosters, accelerate public investment disbursement right in the beginning of this year, especially for national major projects, and selectively lure foreign investments.

Other tasks include consolidating infrastructure, especially in transport, energy, and climate change response, restructuring sectors in parallel with digital transformation, green transition, and just, sustainable energy transition, fostering support industries and services, developing a high-quality workforce, improving healthcare services, coping with climate change and natural disasters, ramping up efforts against corruption, wastefulness and other negative phenomena, and having the European Commission (EC)’s “yellow card” warning against the Vietnamese seafood lifted./.

Lao leader sends congratulations to freshly elected State President

General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith has delivered a congratulatory letter to Luong Cuong on his election as State President of Vietnam by the 15th National Assembly on October 21.

In his letter, the Lao top leader affirmed that the election reflects the trust and high regard from the Party, State, and people of Vietnam to Luong Cuong. He said he is confident that the new President and other Vietnamese Party and State leaders will continue to lead Vietnam and its people to new greater achievements in the ongoing reform process, which aims to transform Vietnam into a modern, industrialised country with wealthy people, strong nation, and a democratic, just, and civilised society.

Thongloun Sisoulith also expressed his wish to work closely with the President to further nurture the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive collaboration between the Vietnamese and Lao Parties, states, and people, bringing practical benefits to both nations and contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world./.

Chinese sick sailor on vessel AMIS STAR provided with first aid

A ship from the Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (VMRCC) on October 20 provided first aid to critically-ill Chinese sailor on a Liberia-flagged vessel off the coast of the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau before bringing him to the shore for further treatment.

Zhu Mingyue, born in 1970, suffered a stroke while vessel AMIS STAR was en route from Singapore to China. The vessel’s captain then altered the course to Vung Tau and sent out a request for urgent assistance.

Receiving the captain’s call for help, the VMRCC requested the Ho Chi Minh City Coastal Information Station to provide initial medical advice. It also deployed a ship and doctors to the site to provide first aid for the sailor before bringing him ashore.

The sailor was then taken to the FV (Franco-Vietnamese) Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for treatment and he is now out of danger./.

Vietnam leaves lasting impressions at AIPA-45

The Vietnamese delegation's substantive and constructive contributions to the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45) have left lasting impressions among participants.

The event wrapped up in Vientiane on October 21, under the chair of Chairman of the Lao National Assembly and AIPA-45 Chair Saysomphone Phomvihane.

The theme "The Role of Parliaments in Enhancing Connectivity and Inclusive Growth of ASEAN" of AIPA-45 highlighted the importance of parliaments in building the legal framework and policies to promote regional integration. Inclusive growth is a key goal for sustainable development and social equity, ensuring mutual benefits for all ASEAN countries. This approach reflects the trend of cooperation amid globalisation while maintaining ASEAN's central role in the region.

Earlier, heads of the AIPA member parliaments signed the joint communiqué. The Vietnamese delegation was led by Chairman of the NA Committee for External Relations Vu Hai Ha.

The Vietnamese delegation's active participation contributed to the overall success of the event, strengthening cooperation within AIPA and building a strong ASEAN Community. Their substantive and constructive contributions showed Vietnam's proactive, positive approach and high sense of responsibility in advancing ASEAN parliamentary cooperation for a prosperous, peaceful and sustainable future for the entire region.

AIPA-45 saw the approval of 39 resolutions, including four from the Committee on Political Matters, eight from the Committee on Economic Matters, five from the Committee on Social Matters, two from the Meeting of Women Parliamentarians of AIPA, three from the Consultative Meeting of Young Parliamentarians of AIPA, and 17 from the Organisational Committee.

Delegates from AIPA member parliaments agreed that the 46th AIPA General Assembly will be held in Malaysia in 2025./.

Festival promotes Vietnam-RoK cultural exchange

A cultural festival has been held in Uijeongbu city of the Republic of Korea (RoK)'s Gyeonggi province to mark the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Association (VWA) in the country.

In her opening speech on October 20, Chairwoman of the VWA in Gyeonggi Mai Thi Hong Ngoc said that the festival aims to deepen the understanding of Vietnamese and Korean cultures among the two countries' people. 

Through the Ao dai (traditional Vietnamese long dress) show, performances of traditional musical instruments, and folk games, the organisers wish to introduce and remind the Vietnamese community of the traditional cultural traits of their homeland, helping raise their pride and connect them with their roots.

The festival also offers an opportunity for Vietnamese people to gather, promote solidarity, and enhance their cultural and spiritual lives, she added.

Ambassador Vu Ho said the Vietnamese community in RoK is growing, and noted vital contributions of Vietnamese women to advancing the relationship between the two countries. The diplomat expressed his hope for more cultural exchange events to further strengthen people-to-people interactions.

On this occasion, the organisers presented gifts to disadvantaged children of Vietnamese-Korean families./.

Vietnamese-funded irrigation system put into operation in Lao district

An irrigation system, built with non-refundable aid provided by the Vietnamese Government, was put into operation on October 21 in Nongbok district in Khammouane province of Laos.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Vo Trong Hai, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of the People’s Committee of Vietnam’s Ha Tinh province, which was assigned to work as the project’s investor, said that this is an important project, not only of socio-economic significance but also of profound political significance, and a symbol of the close brotherhood of the two peoples, thus helping to consolidate and enhance the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in general, and between Ha Tinh and Khammouane provinces in particular.

Secretary of the Party Committee and Governor of Khammoune province Vanxay Phongsavanh expressed gratitude to the Governments of Vietnam and Laos for assigning this project to the province to help promote local agricultural production. He assigned the provincial Department of Agriculture and Forestry, and Nongbok district’s authorities and people to make the most of the irrigation system.

The system is designed to irrigate 500 hectares in four villages of Nongbok district.

On this occasion, Hai had a working session with the Lao province’s leaders, and presented the locality with 1 billion VND (39,400 USD)./.

Fishing vessel in distress towed to Song Tu Tay island

Vessel 468 of Navy Region 4 on October 21 evening towed a fishing boat with its rudder shaft broken to Song Tu Tay island, Truong Sa island district, the central province of Khanh Hoa for repair.

The vessel was patrolling in the waters of Da Nam island, Truong Sa island district, when it received an order to assist a fishing boat with 15 crew members that went adrift due to the problem.

Braving strong winds and waves, the vessel accessed the boat and towed it to Song Tu Tay island. All of the fishermen were in stable health conditions.

The fishing boat from the south-central province of Binh Thuan encountered the problem on October 21 morning. It was set to undergo a repair the next day before continuing fishing in Truong Sa waters./.

Conscripted Vietnamese workers honoured with ceremony in France

A solemn ceremony was held on October 20 in the southern city of Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône prefecture of France, to mark the 10th anniversary of the memorial dedicated to Indochinese workers who came to work in the Camargue region during World War II.

The memorial was built in 2014 in Arles’ Salin-de-Giraud area, with its words written in both French and Vietnamese expressing gratitude to the Vietnamese workers who were conscripted in France between 1939 and 1952.

In her speech at the ceremony, Myriam Le Huu, President of MOI (Mémorial pour les Ouvriers Indochinois), the association for the remembrance of the Indochinese workers and their descendants, highlighted the contributions of Vietnamese workers to the development of rice cultivation in Camargue, which helped make the region's rice a national specialty.

Cécile Lenglet, Sub-prefect of Arles, affirmed that cooperation between France and Vietnam has become more dynamic in several fields, partly thanks to the workers who brought their “rice civilisation” to Camargue.

According to Mayor of Arles Patrick de Carolis, the event provided the local government an opportunity to express gratitude to the Indochinese workers, not only from Vietnam but also from Laos and Cambodia, It also remembered the suffering they endured and their contributions to France's development during that time. He also thanked the descendants of these workers who have settled in France for their contributions to the provincial economy and cultural vibrancy.

For his part, Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang appreciated the attention that local authorities have given to the Vietnamese community in recent times. He emphasised that the relations between Vietnam and France have experienced its ups and downs, but sharing memories is important to continue building new chapters in cooperation and strengthening the friendship between the people of both nations.

During his working visit to the Camargue region on October 19-20, the ambassador met with local government officials and the Vietnamese community in the area. On this occasion, an exhibition showcasing the journey to France and the contributions of the Vietnamese workers to the development of rice cultivation in Camargue was held at the town hall in Salin-de-Giraud./.

Vietnam ready to connect Morocco with ASEAN members: Official

Vietnam is ready to be a bridge to promote relations between Morocco and ASEAN countries, stated Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Committee for External Relations Vu Hai Ha at a meeting with Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs, National Defence, Islamic Affairs, and Moroccan Expatriates Committee of the Moroccan House of Representatives Salma Benaziz in Vientiane on October 20, on the sidelines of the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45).

Highlighted the long-standing relations between Morocco and Vietnam, the Moroccan official said that her country attaches importance to and hopes to bolster the friendship and all-round cooperation with Vietnam, and wishes to further strengthen and deepen bilateral ties in the coming time.

She thanked Vietnam for always supporting Morocco at regional and international multilateral forums such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and AIPA, and said she hopes that the two countries will continue to promote trade cooperation to boost economic development.

Salma Benaziz said that Morocco is ready to be a gateway for Vietnam to connect with African countries.

She highly valued the relationship between the two legislatures, considering this as one of the important channels to promote relations between the two countries, and expressed her hope that Vietnam will support Morocco on the issue of Western Sahara.

For his part, Ha showed his delight at the growing parliamentary cooperation between Vietnam and Morocco through delegation exchanges and coordination at international parliamentary forums such as AIPA.

Ha affirmed his support and readiness to coordinate with the Moroccan side to ensure that the Friendship Parliamentarians’ Groups of the two sides can continue to inherit and promote the results of previous tenures, continuing to serve as a practical bridge to promote cooperation between the two legislative bodies.

Regarding the Western Sahara matter, Ha said that Vietnam supports the settlement of the issue through peaceful negotiations among the parties directly involved on the basis of international law and relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.

The Vietnamese official underlined the need to seek a fair, long-term, satisfactory, and acceptable solution for the parties involved in accordance with the principles and purposes of the UN Charter for peace, cooperation, and development in the region. As an active and responsible member of the international community, Vietnam is ready to contribute to the process of promoting dialogue and finding solutions so as to soon stabilise the situation for peace and stability in the region and the world over, he stated./.

Bac Lieu, Korean locality sign labour cooperation agreement

The Mekong Delta province of Bac Lieu on October 21 signed a cooperation agreement with Uiseong county, Gyeongsangbuk-do province of the Republic of Korea (RoK) on sending local labourers to the RoK to work seasonally under the form of locality-to-locality collaboration between the two countries in the 2023 - 2027 period.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Ngo Vu Thang said that Bac Lieu has more than 481,999 people of working age, accounting for 52.29% of its population, with 472,950 people working, or 98.12%.

At the same time, the number of people entering working age each year is more than 15,000, he said, adding that the rate of trained workers is 69.7% and that of trained workers with certificates and degrees is 26.75%.

With an abundant workforce having practical experience and receiving vocational training, Bac Lieu is capable of meeting the labour demand of Uiseong county, Thang underlined.

The official held that the signing of the deal marks an important step forwards in labour cooperation between the two localities, and the starting point of their friendship, mutual understanding and cooperation based on the principles of equality, mutual assistance and common development.

Kim Gwang Cheol, Director of Tourism, Agriculture and Economy Department of Uiseong county pointed to many similarities between labourers of Vietnam and the RoK, and hailed the working skills and attitude of labourers of Vietnam in general and Bac Lieu in particular. He pledged to provide favourable conditions and environment for Bac Lieu labourers to work in his country.

In May, Bac Lieu sent 30 labourers as seasonal workers to Yeong-dong county of Chungcheongbuk-do. They have returned home after their contract expired./.

Hanoi Ao dai dance marks Vietnamese women’s day

More than 70,000 women from across the capital city of Hanoi dressed up in Ao dai (traditional long dress) and participated in a folk dance ensemble on October 20 to mark the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Hanoi and the 94th founding anniversary of the Vietnam Women’s Union.

Dancing to the tunes of the “Nguoi Ha Noi (Hanoi people)”, “Tien ve Ha Noi” (Marching to Hanoi), and “Ha Noi nhung cong trinh” (Hanoi’s construction works)” songs in 579 communes, wards, and towns, they delivered a message of love for peace as well as a desire to rise up and contribute to a civilised and modern capital.

According to Chairwoman of the Hanoi Women’s Union Le Kim Anh, the performance is expected to be a regular activity that helps enrich the cultural and spiritual life of the women and the city’s people as a whole.

The dance received a certificate from the Vietnam Record Association (VietKings) for engaging the biggest number of women./.

Vietnamese association in Malaysia helps protect women’s rights, legal interests

The Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA), in coordination with the Vietnamese Embassy in Malaysia, held a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur on October 20 to celebrate the 10th founding anniversary of the women's union and the 8th anniversary of the Vietnamese language club in this Southeast Asian country.

The event attracted the attention of thousands of Vietnamese women living and working in Malaysia, with a highlight being a forum on “Protecting the rights and legal interests of Vietnamese women and children in Malaysia.”

In her opening remarks, MVFA President Tran Thi Chang noted that about 30% of more than 30,000 overseas Vietnamese people in the country are Vietnamese women married to local people. Most of these women are hardworking and successful, contributing positively to local society. However, many face unfortunate circumstances due to a lack of legal knowledge and language barriers.

When experiencing domestic violence, or being deceived, these women often suffer in silence or do not know how to protect their legal rights, thus MVFA invited lawyers and officials responsible for these issues in Malaysia to participate in the forum and address their questions. It also offered an opportunity to raise awareness among the attendees, helping them feel more confident and better integrate into local society, Chang added.

Other issues including domestic violence, labour exploitation, and sexual abuse in the workplace were also touched upon at the forum.

According to Hirdawati Mohd Isa, the police chief responsible for women and children's protection, Vietnamese women facing such issues should report to the nearest police station to receive protection and support from Malaysia's legal authorities.

Vietnamese Ambassador Dinh Ngoc Linh praised MVFA's initiative in organising the event, elaborating that it helped strengthen confidence and cohesion among women members and the Vietnamese community in Malaysia.

The diplomat said he hopes that MVFA will continue to promote its role in social activities, fostering connections and building a sustainable community while promoting gender equality.

He also affirmed that the embassy will always support and accompany MVFA as the Vietnamese community abroad is an integral part of the nation./.

Tien Giang strives to reduce poverty rate to 0.87% this year

The Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Committees at all levels in the southern province of Tien Giang have collaborated with agencies and organisations to speed up social security programmes, aiming to reduce the province's poverty rate to 0.87% this year, said Vice President of the provincial VFF Committee Huynh Van Hai.

The province’s poverty rate now stands at 0.97%, with more than 600 poor households in need of housing support.

This year, the VFF Committees at all levels in Tien Giang are planning to help about 490 households escape from poverty, thus reducing the province's poverty rate to 0.87%.

According to Hai, since the beginning of this year, the provincial VFF Committee has received nearly 422 billion VND (16.72 million USD) donated by organisations and individuals.

Of the sum, nearly 15 billion VND has been spent to build and repair houses for nearly 300 poor households. Meanwhile, nearly 45 billion VND was spent to provide medical support for over 1.3 million people and nearly 44 billion VND was spent as preferential loans for over 3,900 turns of poor households.

Hai said that in the coming time, the VFF Committees at all levels in the province will step up communications, calling for support to poor households.

The committees will focus on improve public awareness about sustainable poverty reduction, increase public engagement in poverty reduction programmes, particularly the programme on eliminating temporary and dilapidated houses.

While expanding models and projects on supporting the poor, the province encourages each agency, organisation or association to support at least one poor household to escape poverty sustainably.

Departments, agencies and localities were urged to implement practical activities for the poor such as providing free food, free clothes or preferential loans./.

Vietnam respects right to freedom of belief, religion: official

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Vu Chien Thang highlighted Vietnam’s consistent policy of respecting and protecting the right to freedom of belief and religion for all people, while meeting with UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al-Nashif in his recent trip to Switzerland.

Vietnam has worked to ensure that all religions are treated equally under the law as well as able to promote their sound cultural and ethical values and resources for the national development, he said, elaborating various legal documents have been issued to facilitate religious activities, including the Law on Belief and Religion, and amended the Land Law with provisions related to religious land use.

Mentioning the UN Human Rights Council’s adoption of the outcomes of the Universal Periodic Review’s fourth cycle for Vietnam, Nada al-Nashif said she stands ready to support Vietnam with religious issues in the coming time.

Thang also had working sessions with the Permanent Mission of Vietnam in Geneva and the Vietnamese Embassy in Bern, during which he spotlighted robust progress in the relations between Vietnam and Vatican with the upgrade of the bilateral ties to a resident representative status in July 2023 and Pope Francis recognising the contributions by the Vietnamese dignitaries, the Catholic Church, and followers to the nation’s development.

At a working session with representatives from Bern administration, Thang said Vietnam is willing to welcome international delegations to study the situations of belief and religion in the country in the spirit of goodwill, respect, and adherence to the Vietnamese laws./.

Vietnam steps up cooperation with Brazil's Goias state

Vietnamese Ambassador to Brazil Bui Van Nghi has paid a trip to Goias state at the invitation of president of the federation of commerce, service and tourism of Goias (FECOMERCIO-GO) Marcelo Baiocchi Carneiro.

At a working session with ambassadors, chargé d'affaires and trade attachés from 20 countries, Vice Governor of Goias state Daniel Elias Carvalho Vilela spoke highly of their contributions to expanding cooperation with the Brazilian locality while affirming that he will make efforts to strengthen the relations across politics, economy, trade and cultural exchanges with the nations.

Highlighting the political, trade and cultural ties between Vietnam and Brazil, the Vietnamese diplomat said an array of activities have been held so far this year to mark the 35th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations, including vibrant delegation exchanges.

Nghi also attended the opening ceremony of the international booths at the second Fecomércio trade fair that drew the participation of more than 50 Brazilian firms operating in the fields of agriculture, real estate and technology.

During his two-day stay, Nghi and representatives of Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, China and Kenya had a meeting with students from the National Business Learning Service (SENAC) and the centre for citizen education (SESC), discussing global issues. He highlighted the Vietnamese Party and Government’s initiatives to handle challenges related to climate change.

On the occasion, the Legislative Assembly of Goias presented Pedro Ludovico Teixeira orders to the ambassadors in recognition of their contributions to fostering cooperation for the state’s development.

Last year, trade revenue between Vietnam and Goias was around 377 million USD, or 5.3% of the two nations’ trade turnover of 7.11 billion USD. Vietnam spent 355 million USD on importing goods from Goias, mainly agricultural products such as corn, soya bean and cotton./.

Energy, mining cooperation – pillar of Vietnam-Laos economic ties: Deputy PM

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son has underscored the importance of energy and mining cooperation as a pillar of economic ties between Vietnam and Laos.

During a reception in Hanoi on October 21 for Lao Minister of Energy and Mines Phosay Sayasone, Son assured his guest that Vietnam always values and gives the highest priority to the Vietnam-Laos special relationship.

According to him, bilateral ties have been growing robustly and effectively, bolstered by political trust and regular visits by leaders. Two-way trade is estimated at 1.7 billion USD in the first 10 months of this year, on track to meet the target of a 10-15% year-on-year increase as outlined in the cooperation plan between the two Governments.

To realise the agreement between the two Politburos in September 2024 and prepare for the 47th Vietnam-Laos Inter-Governmental Committee meeting, which will be co-chaired by the two PMs in early 2025, he urged both sides to perform the assigned tasks in power and coal trading, and increase bilateral investment.

Regarding cooperation in power trading, both sides need to realise the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2006. As Vietnam's electricity import capacity from Laos can exceed 5,000 MW by 2030, Son suggested that the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) and the Lao Ministry of Energy and Mines provide timely reports for both Governments to consider necessary adjustments to the MoU.

He hailed the MoIT for swiftly establishing a task force for bilateral electricity trading led by a minister, which he said, demonstrates Vietnam's strong commitment to promoting this cooperation.

Affirming that coal from Laos will be one of the key input sources for electricity production in Vietnam in the coming time, he asked the MoIT and the Lao Ministry of Energy and Mines to step up the negotiation and signing of an agreement on coal trade cooperation during the upcoming inter-governmental committee meeting.

Praising the partnerships between Vietnamese and Lao enterprises in the construction of the conveyor belt between the two countries, Son believed that more business partnerships for key projects will emerge, contributing to the trade and industry cooperation and the overall economic growth of both nations.

Sayasone thanked the Vietnamese Government for valuing collaboration with Laos, noting that many Vietnamese enterprises have been investing in energy and mining in Laos.

Notably, both sides have committed to a power trading capacity of 3,000 MW by 2025 and 5,000 MW by 2030. To date, Vietnam has approved the import of electricity from Laos with a total capacity of 2,939 MW, while the total capacity under signed electricity trading contracts is 2,239 MW, accounting for 74.3% of the capacity committed by 2025.

He proposed continuing with in-depth discussions at all levels so that energy and mining become key strengths in bilateral cooperation. He expressed confidence that activities in this field will become increasingly effective in the near future./.

Deputy PM meets with Vice-President of European Commission

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son met with Vice-President of the European Commission (EC) Margaritis Schinas in Ho Chi Minh City on October 21 on the sidelines of the ongoing Green Economy Forum & Exhibition (GEFE).

Son told the EC official that Vietnam highly values its comprehensive partnership with the EU and expressed his satisfaction with the positive developments in their relations. Vietnam is the only ASEAN country to have a full framework of cooperation with the bloc, and the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has provided a significant boost to the sides’ trade and investment.

As Vietnam and the EU prepare to celebrate 35 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, the deputy PM hoped they would continue working closely to elevate their ties to a new height. He suggested increasing high-level exchanges and contacts while effectively implementing cooperation mechanisms between their ministries and sectors.

He held that the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), once in force, will create new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment cooperation, especially in areas such as the environment, green transition, digital transformation, and the circular economy. He also urged the EC to promptly lift its "yellow card" on Vietnamese seafood exports under the Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing framework, contributing to Vietnam’s sustainable fisheries development.

On this occasion, Son thanked the EU for its ongoing support of Vietnam’s sustainable development efforts through substantive cooperation programmes and projects as well as its timely assistance of 800,000 EUR to help Vietnamese people recover from the impact of Typhoon Yagi.

For his part, Schinas commended Vietnam's recent economic and social progress and noted that the Vietnam-EU cooperation has significant potential to grow.

He affirmed in addition to positive trade and investment relations, the EU seeks to enhance collaboration with the Southeast Asian country in areas where it holds a leading position, particularly green transition, environment, and climate change response. Schinas also agreed to push for the swift ratification of the EVIPA by EU member states to create a favourable environment for the expansion of their economic ties.

On the same day, in a meeting with Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tapani Tavio, Deputy PM Son stated Vietnam values its traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Finland. He expressed his delight at the recent progress in bilateral collaboration across various fields, including politics-diplomacy, economy-trade, development, and education-training.

He proposed that both sides continue to maintain high-level exchanges and contacts and strengthen ties between their ministries and businesses so that they can fully capitalise on the benefits of the EVFTA to boost trade.

Appreciating the Finnish Parliament's ratification of the EVIPA, he suggested the nations expand joint work in potential sectors like high technology, telecommunications, renewable energy, environment, water treatment, and forest management.

Lauding Finland's strengths in education, the official recommended enhancing collaboration in high-quality human resources development and fostering ties between their educational institutions.

Minister Tavio praised Vietnam as a successful development model in its region and affirmed Finland’s wish to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in climate action and green transition – areas where Finnish businesses have significant experience and a long-standing presence in Vietnam.

He also agreed to expand cooperation in education and training, to continue strengthening comprehensive ties with the EU, and to exchanges and consultations at international and regional forums./.

Vietnamese, Chinese Parties promote theoretical exchanges

Prof. Dr. Nguyen Xuan Thang, Politburo member, Director of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (HCMA), and Chairman of the Central Theory Council, hosted a visiting delegation from the Communist Party of China (CPC) led by Qu Qingshan, Director of the CPC Central Institute of Party History and Literature, in Hanoi on October 21.

Thang emphasised the significance of this visit, saying it represents a step to concretise the high-level common perception on deepening theoretical exchanges between the two Parties.

He congratulated the 20th CPC Central Committee on the success of its third plenum, which had outlined crucial measures for promoting comprehensive reforms, Chinese-style modernisation and high-quality development in line with the Resolution of the 20th CPC Congress.

He called for research institutions of the two Parties and countries to closely follow practical demands in the new situation, continue enhancing theoretical cooperation, and regularly share the latest research results, contributing to the socio-economic development and socialist construction efforts of both nations.

For his part, Qu, a CPC Central Committee member, praised Vietnam’s achievements in nearly 40 years of Doi Moi (Renewal) under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and expressed his belief that the country will fulfil the goals set by the 13th National CPV Congress and successfully organise the 14th Congress. He emphasised that Chinese research agencies are ready to closely coordinate with Vietnam in effectively realising the common perception of the highest-level leaders of the two Parties on enhancing theoretical and practical exchanges in the process of building socialism and promoting modernisation in line with each country's reality.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the positive developments of relations between the two Parties and countries; and agreed to maintain close high-level contacts, strengthen practical cooperation across spheres, promote people-to-people exchanges, and better control and resolve disagreements based on the high-level common perceptions and international law. This will contribute to deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and building a Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

They also consented to enhance collaboration between their respective Party history and theoretical research institutions and jointly organize the 19th theoretical seminar between the two Parties.

On the same day, Lai Xuan Mon, a member of the CPV Central Committee and standing deputy head of its Commission for Information and Education, met with the CPC delegation to discuss the theoretical and practical achievements of both Parties over the past time and sketch out orientations for future cooperation between their information and theoretical agencies./.

Vietnam, Laos ready for 2nd border defence friendship exchange

Working delegations from the Defence Ministries of Vietnam and Laos on October 21 held a rehearsal for the second Vietnam-Laos Border Defence Friendship Exchange in Moc Chau district, the northern province of Son La, and Sop Bao district, Laos’s Houaphanh province.

Vietnamese Deputy Defence Minister Sen. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien and his Lao counterpart Sen. Lt. Gen. Vongkham Phommakone inspected several sites where the programme’s activities will be organised, including Long Sap Border Gate, Pahang Primary and Secondary School, Long Sap Broading Primary and Secondary School and Moc Chau District Administrative Centre.

The two officials praised agencies and units that engage in preparation for the event.

The friendship exchange will take place from October 22-23 in Moc Chau district and Sop Bao district.

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./.

PM’s participation at BRICS+ Summit affirms Vietnam’s support to multilateralism: Ambassador

Vietnam's participation at the expanded BRICS (BRICS+) Summit will send out the country’s message of supporting the role of multilateral cooperation forums and mechanisms which operate on the basis of respect for the UN Charter and in accordance with international law, Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi has said.

In an interview granted to Vietnam News Agency on the thresholds of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s trip to Russia for the event from October 23-24, the diplomat further said this will promote the voice and representation of developing countries in global governance as well as in solving common challenges, contributing to building a multipolar and equitable world order, and to peace, stability and development in the region and the world over.

The trip will be a high-level foreign activity of great significance, affirming Vietnam's consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation, diversification of foreign relations, proactive and active international integration, being a friend, a trustworthy partner, and a responsible member of the international community, the diplomat stated.

This year’s event, themed “BRICS and the Global South: Building a Better World Together”, will focus on exchanging views on cooperation between BRICS countries and the Global South in addressing issues on the international agenda, including regional and international situations, sustainable development, and food and energy security, said Khoi, adding this is of particular importance in the context of an increasingly complex world situation with the emergence of many fierce challenges, requiring countries to strengthen coordination to respond effectively.

The ambassador said he believes that PM Chinh’s participation will effectively contribute to the activities at the summit, affirming to international friends the image of a proactive, active, responsible, sincere, and friendly Vietnam with contributions to the realisation of the common goal of peace, security, stability, and sustainable development in the region and the world at large.

Khoi said that on this occasion, Chinh will hold meetings and working sessions with leaders of countries and international organisations to discuss measures to strengthen relations across areas of shared concern and to review the implementation of agreements, making cooperation between Vietnam and other countries and international organisations deeper, more effective, and more substantive, contributing to the development and stability of the region and the whole world.

The Vietnamese Government leader’s participation at the BRICS+ Summit during Russia's performing of BRICS Chair will also send out a message om the special relationship between Vietnam and Russia, continuing and effectively promoting the decades-old bilateral traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation based on the foundation of trust, sustainable cooperation, and mutual respect.

PM Chinh will have meetings with high-ranking leaders of Russia as well as Russian partners and major economic corporations, which will provide a chance for the two sides to speed up the realisation of outcomes of visits and meetings of high-ranking leaders of the two countries.

Leaders of the two countries will seek major directions for bilateral cooperation in the coming time and specific measures to remove difficulties and obstacles facing bilateral collaboration in the fields of economy, trade, energy, oil and gas, science and technology, education, and culture, contributing to the intensive and extensive development of the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership towards the 75th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in early 2025, the ambassador said.

BRIC was established in 2006 at the foreign ministerial level, initially consisting of four countries - Brazil, Russia, India, and China - and upgraded to a summit level in 2009. BRIC cooperation is based on three pillars, namely politics-security, economics-finance, and cultural and people-to-people exchange.

Over the past 20 years, BRIC has made strong progress. In 2010, South Africa was officially accepted to the bloc which became BRICS. On January 1, 2024, it added five more members of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. BRICS also brings together two permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, six members of the G20, and many members are middle-ranking countries.

BRICS also groups many dynamic emerging economies and developing economies. To date, it contributes about 37% of global GDP, making up nearly 50% of the global population, 49% of wheat production, 43% of global oil production, and 25% of the world's merchandise exports.

PM Chinh's first attendance at the BRICS+ Summit is expected to open up new prospects for cooperation between Vietnam and the bloc, offering the country an opportunity to promote extensive cooperation with BRICS member countries and partners, while allowing its access to BRICS' mechanisms, abundant resources, and large-scale markets to serve the country's development goals. The event also creates opportunities for Vietnam to join hands in addressing urgent issues on the global agenda. In 2024, Vietnam was invited and participated in many BRICS+ activities at different levels, both through the Party and State channels, Khoi stressed.

He said that many ASEAN member countries are also interested in participating in BRICS at different levels, adding that four ASEAN countries have leaders and representatives attending this year’s BRICS+ Summit./.

Settlement of voters’ petitions submitted to NA reaches nearly 98%: report

Nearly 98% of 2,289 petitions of voters sent to the 7th sitting of the 15th parliament have been handled so far, Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee’s Ombudsman Board Duong Thanh Binh said on October 21.

Delivering a report on the outcomes of the petition settlement at the NA's ongoing 8th sitting in Hanoi, Binh said that issues related to labour, invalids and social affairs, health care, transport, agriculture, rural areas, natural resources, environment, and education and training continued to be the voters’ concerns.

The NA and its agencies cleared up all 35 petitions. Over the recent past, the parliament has paid due attention to building and perfecting the legal system so as to pen effective solutions in a timely manner, creating a motive for socio-economic development in the coming years.

Meanwhile, the government, ministries, and centrally-run agencies have responded to 2,112 out of 2,162 petitions, he said, adding that concerted efforts have been made in the work, demonstrating their seriousness and sense of responsibility, with various issues resolved ahead of deadlines and the quality of the responses improved, contributing to removing roadblocks while stabilising and improving local livelihoods.

The Supreme People’s Court and the Supreme People’s Procuracy addressed all of the 27 petitions in their authority, he said.

However, Binh said the collection and summerisation of voters’ petitions of several NA delegations failed to meet the deadline as stipulated by the law. Besides, some issues that fall under the jurisdiction of local authorities were referred to central agencies for resolution.

He urged competent NA agencies to further enhance supervision over the issuance of legal documents and the deputies to improve the quality of petition collection, classification and settlement.

According to a report presented by President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Central Committee Do Van Chien on the same day, crop losses due to Typhoon Yagi, party congresses at all levels, especially the upcoming 14th National Party Congress, smuggling, tax evasion, high-tech crimes and corruption prevention and control are among the issues of voters’ concerns that were submitted to this session.

The report says voters have enthusiastic response to the drive to eliminate temporary and dilapidated houses for poor and near-poor households in 2025 and have expressed their delight at the economic growth over the past time thanks to the Party, Government, and NA’s resolve to remove bottlenecks to foster socio-economic development.

Besides, voters have been confident that under the wise leadership of the Party and State, led by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, the whole people and army will successfully concretise the resolution adopted at the 13th National Party Congress and make meticulous preparations for the upcoming party congresses at all levels towards the 14th National Party Congress to bring the nation to a new era – the era of the nation’s rise.

In the report, the Presidium of the VFF Central Committee proposed competent authorities to issue legal documents to bring into full play the Party’s consistent policy to garner the strength of the people and realise targets on socio-economic development and defence – security./.

Vietnam seeks stronger cooperation with Argentinean locality

Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Ngo Minh Nguyet visited the north-central province of Cordoba from October 17-20 to seek stronger trade cooperation between Vietnam and the second most populous Argentine province.

During the trip, she had working sessions with Governor of Cordoba Martín Miguel Llaryora, Mayor of Pilar city Leopoldo Grumstrup, and leaders of the Foreign Trade Office, Agency for the Economic Development and In-Bond Warehouse of Cordoba.

The Vietnamese diplomat highlighted recent economic, trade and investment achievements of Vietnam, and emphasised the country’s strengths in export of agro-forestry-fishery products, electronics, garments and footwear, as well as its hope to further increase trade with Argentina.

Argentina is Vietnam's fifth largest trade partner in the Americas and third in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico. Meanwhile, Vietnam is Argentina's seventh biggest trade partner in the world and the number one in Southeast Asia.

In 2023, two-way trade hit nearly 3.5 billion USD, including Vietnam’s exports of 976 million USD, up 14.6% year on year.

The ambassador affirmed that Cordoba plays an important role in the cooperation structure between the two countries. She noted that the locality contributes more than 25% of the value of goods in Argentina's total export turnover to Vietnam, stressing that there is still much room for the two sides to continue developing cooperation.

Governor Martín Miguel Llaryora affirmed the locality’s interest in further expanding cooperation with Vietnam, Cordoba's third largest trading partner, in many fields, especially in economics, trade, and investment. As one of Argentina's economic locomotives, Cordoba is known as the country's number one centre for corn, milk and peanut production, and number two for soybeans, he said, adding that Cordoba is strong in automobile, agricultural machinery, cattle breeding and oil and gas industries.

Mayor of Pilar city Leopoldo Grumstrup presented the titles of "Guest of Honour" and "Key of Honour" of Pilar to Ambassador Nguyet who affirmed that Vietnam wishes to promote culture and tourism cooperation with the city.

During her stay in Cordoba, Nguyet visited the University of Cordoba’s Law School, founded 420 years ago as the second oldest university in Latin America. She also visited major corporations in Cordoba, including Porta Hermanos and Gespa./.

NA Chairman: Unleashing resources to serve socio-economic development

National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man has stressed that laws should optimise resources and enhance decentralisation, ensuring that individuals and agencies granted these powers are fully capable of performing their duties.

Chairing and addressing the opening of the 8th session of the 15th-tenure National Assembly in Hanoi on October 21, the top legislator said the event will look into various issues to quickly untangle knots in terms of institutions and policies, thus unlocking resources for socio-economic development.

The 8th session will take place in two phases, with the first from October 21 to November 13, and the second from November 20 to November 30 morning, spanning 29.5 working days.

According to Man, the law-making work will dominate the agenda as up to 31 draft laws and resolutions will be tabled for discussion, of which 18 bills and three draft resolutions are expected to be adopted.

Such documents cover a wide range of sectors and fields that are urgently needed in practice, he said, adding they are of great interest to businesses, voters, and the public across the country.

The leader urged the reduction and simplification of administrative procedures, along with tighter control of power to prevent group interests and local biases from influencing laws and resolutions.

He stressed that all laws and resolutions passed by the NA must be of high quality and have long-term viability, while also giving the Government the flexibility and authority needed for effective implementation.

The NA Chairman said legislators will consider and make decision on the establishment of the centrally-run city of Hue, along with the investment policy for the national target programmes on cultural development for 2025-2035, on drug prevention and combat by 2030, and on the North-South high-speed railway project.

The leader asked NA deputies to give feedback on the suitability, feasibility, and effectiveness of the proposed policies, as well as their consistency and coherence with existing legal regulations to leverage resources and seize developmental opportunities. This approach aims to successfully achieve the socio-economic development goals for the 2021-2025 period and contribute to the successful implementation of the Resolution adopted at the 13th National Party Congress.

Man also touched upon supreme supervision and personnel issues, stressing the NA will elect a new State President.

After the NA Chairman's opening remarks, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam delivered a keynote speech at the meeting./.

Vietnam-Saudi Arabia relations on strong development momentum

The relationship between Vietnam and Saudi Arabia has been consistently consolidated and developed across various fields over the past 25 years, since they set up their diplomatic ties on October 21, 1999, according to insiders.

Over the recent years, both sides have stepped up high-level and all-level delegation exchanges. Right after the COVID-19 pandemic was brought under control, delegation exchanges were resumed, reflected by the first visit to Vietnam by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud in March 2022, the first Political Consultation between the two Foreign Ministries in the Middle East country in February 2023, and most recently the trip by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh from October 18-20, 2023 - the first working visit by a Government leader of Vietnam to Saudi Arabia and the second by a high-ranking leader after 13 years since the first in 2010.

Chinh’s trip made a breakthrough in seeking new cooperation opportunities, expanding the market for Vietnamese goods and services in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and boosting collaboration in various fields, particularly investment, trade, energy transition, sustainable growth, high-skilled labour, the Halal industry, agricultural and aquatic product exports, and tourism.

Within its framework, the two sides successfully organised the Vietnam-Saudi Arabia Business Forum and signed five cooperation documents in the fields of justice, diplomacy, crime prevention and control, tourism, and trade promotion.

In addition, the two countries have coordinated and supported each other at multilateral and regional forums. Vietnam is ready to support Saudi Arabia in enhancing its cooperation with ASEAN and promoting collaboration between ASEAN and the GCC, in line with each side's potential and strengths and based on the principle of mutual benefit. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia continues to support the stances of ASEAN and Vietnam in addressing regional and global issues.

Besides the political and diplomatic sphere, economic and trade cooperation is also a highlight in bilateral relations. Saudi Arabia is currently one of Vietnam's key economic partners in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching 2.68 billion USD in 2023 and 2.21 billion USD in the first nine months of this year.

In recent years, more and more Saudi Arabian companies have shown interest in and sought to promote cooperation with Vietnam in various fields, including trade, investment, energy, seaport, Halal food, tourism, and innovation. As of September, Saudi Arabia had ranked 79th out of the 148 countries and territories investing in the Southeast Asian nation, with eight projects totaling 8.57 million USD. Many large corporations and investment funds from Saudi Arabia have effectively implemented numerous direct and indirect investment projects in Vietnam, particularly in real estate, energy, and steel.

The two countries are continuing to strengthen cooperation in various fields such as energy like petrochemicals and green energy, investment, manufacturing, culture, the Halal industry, and tourism and sports. With Vietnam issuing its project to enhance international cooperation for building and developing the Halal industry in the country by 2030, the first initiative to outline major national directions aimed at opening up the promising Halal market, both countries have numerous opportunities to promote collaboration, as Saudi Arabia is one of Vietnam's priority partners and markets for this kind of product.

Furthermore, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia have significant potential to enhance agricultural cooperation. Saudi Arabia, with its vast desert area and unfavourable climate for agriculture, presents an opportunity for Vietnamese exporters. Many of its companies are currently interested in Vietnamese goods, particularly agricultural products and food, as the Middle Eastern nation is striving to diversify its supply sources to ensure food security.

Regarding development cooperation, the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) in Vietnam has played a crucial role in strengthening the bilateral partnership over the past 25 years. To date, it has provided preferential loans totaling over 181 million USD for 13 projects for Vietnam.

To unlock investment capital in Vietnam, Saudi Arabia's 620-billion-USD Public Investment Fund has committed to allocating more resources for major infrastructure development projects in Vietnam. Many large groups have expressed their intention to expand their investment activities in Vietnam across various sectors, including steel, precast steel, retail, agriculture, and clean energy, with the aim of using Vietnam as a gateway to extend their business networks into other ASEAN countries.

Currently, there are about 5,000 Vietnamese workers in Saudi Arabia. The two countries are working towards finalising a new labour cooperation agreement to be signed in the near future, and help strengthen the bilateral relationship.

The year 2024 marks an important milestone in the Vietnam-Saudi Arabia relations as the two countries celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. With the impressive achievements and the desire and determination of both governments and peoples, bilateral cooperation will continue to be strengthened and develop across all areas, including diplomacy, economics, trade, investment, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, for the common benefits of both peoples, and for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in both regions and the world.

Speaking at a ceremony to celebrate the 94th National Day of Saudi Arabia (1930- 2024) and the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Saudi Arabia diplomatic relations, held in Hanoi on September 23, Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Hang said that the 25-year journey of the bilateral relations has fostered friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries in a deeper and more substantial manner.

She proposed the two sides continue to deepen their cooperative relationship, turn mutual admiration into tangible results and each country's development aspirations into motivation and opportunities to open new areas of cooperation, and jointly promote growth for both countries and the two regions.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Vietnam Mohammed Ismaeil A. Dahlwy affirmed that his country and Vietnam have many similarities and these are highlights in the strong relationship between the two countries.

Looking to the future, Saudi Arabia looks forward to deeper cooperation with Vietnam in areas such as technology, energy, sustainable development, and people-to-people exchange, the diplomat added./.

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