Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a high-ranking delegation of Vietnam left Hanoi on October 23 morning for the expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan city of Russia, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin, Chair of BRICS 2024.

Accompanying the PM are Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien, and other senior officials from key ministries and agencies, along with Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi.

The October 23-24 summit, a pivotal event within the framework of cooperation between BRICS and developing countries, will be attended by leaders from member states and over 30 guest countries, including developing nations from various continents and several international organisations.

This year’s summit will feature a plenary session themed "BRICS and the Global South: Building a Better World Together". Leaders will discuss solutions to propel economic growth, enhance economic connectivity between BRICS and Global South countries, and strengthen cooperation in addressing global challenges. Key areas of focus will include new growth drivers such as the digital economy, green economy, circular economy, sci-tech and innovation.

Additionally, the discussions will centre on creating a balanced, effective and inclusive global governance ecosystem that heightens the role and voice of developing countries.

PM Chinh’s attendance at the summit is an important step in implementing Vietnam's consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of foreign relations; being a friend, a reliable partner, and an active and responsible member of the international community; as well as its policy of promoting and elevating multilateral diplomacy.

It strongly reaffirms Vietnam’s proactive, active and responsible spirit in addressing global issues; underscores the country’s commitment to promoting multilateralism, global solidarity, and the rule of law while raising the voice of developing nations for global peace, cooperation, and development.

Vietnam's engagement in discussions on pressing global issues with major and emerging economies further affirms its position, role and stature, painting a picture of a nation that is peaceful, cooperative, dynamic and innovative. Through the event, Vietnam will continue to deepen its cooperation with Russia and other countries./.

Foreign leaders send congratulations to new President

Leaders of China, Cambodia, Cuba and Russia have sent their congratulations to Luong Cuong on his fresh election as President of Vietnam.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and President of China Xi Jinping affirmed that China attaches importance to developing relations with Vietnam, supports the country's path towards socialism in line with its conditions, and its preparations for the 14th National Party Congress. Recapping the recent high-level contacts, including Party General Secretary and State President To Lam's visit to China in August 2024, and Cuong's visit in October 2024, the top leader of China underlined the need for the two sides to effectively implement the common perceptions reached by the leaders of the two parties and countries. He expressed his readiness to work with Cuong to guide the building of a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic importance in a practical manner, thus supporting the modernisation of both countries and bringing greater benefits to their people.

King of Cambodia Preah Karuna Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni and President of the Cambodian Senate Samdech Techo Hun Sen affirmed that Cuong's election as President of Vietnam reflects his talented leadership and dedication, as well as significant achievements he has made for the country and the people of Vietnam.

They showed their belief that under the new President's leadership, Vietnam will reap even greater successes, obtaining rapid development in all areas and maintaining its important role in the region and the world.

The Cambodian leaders believed that the relationship between Cambodia and Vietnam will become increasingly close, contributing to promoting peace, security, stability, cooperation, development and prosperity in the region and the world.

First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) Central Committee and President of Cuba Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez expressed his belief that the Cuban and Vietnamese leaders will continue to deepen the good friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the relationship between the two countries is developing in the spirit of a comprehensive strategic partnership. He showed his hope that Cuong will continue to promote the bilateral cooperation in all fields to meet the fundamental interests of the two countries' people, as well as to ensure security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region./.

Vietnam receives EU’s humanitarian aid for Typhoon Yagi victims

The Vietnam Red Cross Society (VNRC) Central Committee has received humanitarian response and early recovery support from the European Union and its member states through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)' Emergency Appeal to assist the Vietnamese people affected by Typhoon Yagi and its subsequent floodings.

The IFRC has issued an emergency appeal with the aim of raising 4 million CHF (over 4.7 million USD) to support 130,000 people in seven northern mountainous provinces in Vietnam. To date, it has received more than 2 million CHF, including assistance from the European Union, the Governments of Spain, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

The VNRC Central Committee has allocated emergency relief valued at nearly 14.7 billion VND (over 579,400 USD), and assisted over 21,000 households with more than 84,000 beneficiaries in 20 provinces and cities affected by the typhoon and its aftermath, according to VNRC Vice Chairman Vu Thanh Luu.

Since a community fundraising campaign was launched on September 7, the VNRC has received 29 billion VND.

The VNRC is developing a comprehensive relief programme including interventions and support from the IFRC, international partners, domestic and foreign partners to support emergency relief and recovery for areas affected by Typhoon Yagi. It is proactively preparing human resources, procedures and technical conditions to carry out emergency relief, recovery and reconstruction programmes and projects in the areas with priority given to assistance in terms of food and nutrition, clean water, sanitation and disease prevention and control in emergency situations.

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, as of September 27, Typhoon Yagi, the third to enter the East Sea this year, and circulation caused floods and landslides, left 318 people dead, 26 others missing, and 1,976 injured. Damage to property of the people and the state was estimated at over 81 trillion VND./.

London ceremony honours Vietnamese, foreign community contributors

The award ceremony of the Vietnam International Awards took place in London on October 20 to honour Vietnamese and foreign organisations and individuals with outstanding contributions to the community.

This year's Vietnam International Awards includes 12 categories with 60 nominations that are organisations and individuals from the UK, Vietnam and European countries, focusing on the fields of health, education, law, business, innovation as well as community and volunteer activities.

The Community Ambassador award came to Quynh Nguyen, Executive Director of the Vietnamese Family Association (VFP), a charity organisation that teaches Vietnamese, holds activities to promote the Vietnamese culture, and provides support services to Vietnamese people in the UK.

The excellent education award went to The Project Darts, a project that trains, mentors, and supports Vietnamese students in the UK in their career development.

Kevin Nguyen, an 8-grader from Nantes, France, won the young achiever award. Currently in his sixth year of studying saxophone at the Nantes Conservatory of Music, Kevin has contributed to promoting Vietnamese culture through his musical talent as well as fundraising activities to support disadvantaged children.

The outstanding global charity award was presented to Rong Xanh (Blue Dragon) Children’s Foundation, an Australian charity that has been working in Vietnam since 2002 to support disabled children, street children, and victims of human trafficking.

Katrin Kandel, CEO of Facing the World (FTW), received the innovation of the year award. FTW is a charity organisation founded in 2002 in the UK, specialising in supporting surgery for Vietnamese children with congenital facial deformities, providing professional training for Vietnamese surgeons, and sponsoring medical equipment and technology for remote medical examination and treatment for Vietnamese hospitals.

Speaking to the Vietnam News Agency, Professor Michael Mainelli, recipient of the lifetime achievement special award, underlined the significance of the award in creating connections among communities. He highly valued the contributions by the Vietnamese community in the UK to the diversity and richness of London's life and culture.

At the award ceremony, participants had a chance to enjoy a Vietnamese traditional Ao dai performance, and an art performance to introduce the beauty of Vietnamese culture to international friends, while joining charity auction activities.

The annual award, launched in 2022, aims to promote the image, understanding, and contributions of overseas Vietnamese, and foster connections among their communities in countries as well as connectivity between the communities and outside partners.

The award was co-founded by Hoang Ha, Vice President of the Vietnam Women Union of in Europe, and Nguyen Nhu Thoai, Founding President of the Association of Vietnamese Women and Children in the UK./.

Kien Giang continues to take firm stand against IUU fishing

The Standing Board of the Party Committee of southern Kien Giang province has called for strengthening the Party's leadership in the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, part of a broader national effort to have the “yellow card” warning lifted by the European Commission (EC).

The Standing Board asked the Party Civil Affairs Board of the provincial People’s Committee to actively disseminate the 2017 Fisheries Law, the Government decrees on administrative penalties in the fisheries sector, and the resolution issued by the Supreme People's Court's Council of Justices that guides certain provisions of the Penal Code regarding criminal liability for illegal fishing, trade and transport of seafood.

Leaders of local administrations, departments and agencies who have shown negligence in addressing IUU fishing will face strict penalties.

To ensure compliance, the province will intensify inspecting and monitoring the use of the vessel monitoring systems (VMS) on fishing vessels to guarantee that they operate round the clock, thoroughly deal with the vessels without registration, examination or licence, complete updating the fisheries database, boost seafood origin tracing via the eCDT software, and closely monitor vessels operating at fishery ports.

Since the start of this year, Kien Giang has recorded 10 cases involving 14 fishing vessels violating foreign waters for illegal fishing. Over 1,330 instances of fishing vessels losing connection signals from their VMS at sea have been identified.

The Standing Board attributed the problem to not only fishermen's limited awareness but also some Party committees, organisations, administrations, and officials' lack of responsibility or strong actions in the IUU fishing combat./.

Thai Nguyen targets removing temporary, dilapidated houses by June next year

The northern province of Thai Nguyen aims to eliminate all temporary and dilapidated houses in next June, said Secretary of provincial Party Committee Trinh Viet Hung.

He made the announcement at a meeting of the Steering Committee on the implementation of the elimination of temporary and dilapidated houses in Thai Nguyen province on October 21.

Hung highlighted the importance of this initiative as a key political task. He urged Party committees, authorities, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and mass organisations at all levels to work together to direct and remove these houses in a synchronous and effective manner.

Districts were asked to conduct thorough reviews and compile a list of temporary and dilapidated houses that require support, thus striving to complete the removal of the eligible households by March 31 next year. For households that do not yet meet the criteria, the deadline is extended until June 30.

Implementing a project on removing temporary and dilapidated houses for poor and near-poor households in the locality in 2024-2025 period, as of October, Thai Nguyen had 504 poor and near-poor households eligible to get support for the removal of their temporary and dilapidated houses. Of which, 338 households registered to get support this year and 146 others will receive the support in the following year. Fourteen households fail to secure reciprocal capital and six don’t need housing support.

The total funding for mobilising the implementation of the Project has reached more than 22 billion VND. Currently, the provincial Standing Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee has arranged enough funding to get rid of 504 temporary and dilapidated houses for eligible poor and near-poor households. Specifically, eligible families will be provided with 50 million VND for building a new house or 25 million VND for home repair.

On October 5, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh launched a movement themed “Mai am cho dong bao toi” (houses for our compatriots) to build and upgrade houses for the needy across the nation within 450 days. He called on the whole political system, all people and the business community to join hands, with the spirit of love and mutual support and not leaving anyone behind, to promptly complete the goal of building and repairing houses for the needy, especially those in far-flung, mountains, island and border areas and from ethnic minority groups.

According to Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung, so far, more than 1.7 million houses have been built and repaired for the poor and people with disadvantaged backgrounds. Currently, there are still more than 400,000 temporary and dilapidated houses across the country./.

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)./.

Vietnam, UK promote parliamentary collaboration

Vietnamese Ambassador to the UK Do Minh Hung had a working session with Speaker of the UK House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle in London on October 22, emphasising the priority of promoting inter-parliamentary cooperation between the two countries in the coming time.

The cooperation covers delegation exchanges at all levels, law building, experience sharing, mutual support at international forums, coordination in addressing regional and global issues, and people-to-people exchanges.

Hung appreciated the donations of the UK Parliament, Government, and people to Vietnam in recent times, saying he hopes that the two countries will maintain close collaboration in various fields to consolidate and deepen their strategic partnership.

The diplomat conveyed an invitation from National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man to Hoyle to visit Vietnam in 2025. The latter accepted the invitation and said that he will arrange the trip soon and would like to host Man and NA delegations in the UK.

Hoyle praised Vietnam's achievements in foreign affairs, socio-economics and culture in recent times, and showed his confidence in Vietnam's increasingly important role in fostering economic development and a peaceful, prosperous environment in the region.

He also expressed his wish that both sides will enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, green finance, energy transition, innovation research, manufacturing, and tourism.

The Vietnamese ambassador also had a working session Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons Judith Cummins, and MPs Mark Hendrick and Mark Garnier, during which Hung proposed the MPs to continue supporting the promotion of Vietnam-UK relations in various spheres, especially economics, finance, trade, energy, education, national defence and security, and people-to-people exchanges.

He expressed his hope that the UK Parliament will soon establish the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Vietnam (APPG Vietnam) to promote bilateral cooperation more effectively.

The hosts said they are actively advocating for the establishment of the APPG Vietnam, and willing to shoulder key positions in the group./.

Two draft laws to be discussed at NA’s eighth session on Oct. 23

National Assembly deputies will continue discussing several important issues at the ongoing eighth session of the 15th parliament on October 23, including the draft juvenile justice law and the draft cultural heritage law.

In the morning, they are set to hear a proposal and a verification report on the adjustment of the national land use planning for 2021-2030 with a vision to 2050.

The parliament will review the explanatory report, gather feedback, and make revisions to the draft juvenile justice law and discuss it.

Meanwhile, a proposal and a verification report on the policy for additional state investment in the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade will be tabled in the afternoon session.

Law-makers will also hear a report on the explanation of and adjustment to the draft cultural heritage law (revised) and discuss it./.

NA advances key legislation on second day of 8th session

The 15th National Assembly continued the ongoing 8th session in Hanoi on October 22, the second working day, under the chair of NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

The morning sitting, presided over by NA Vice Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Thanh, saw Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ho Duc Phoc present a report on the implementation of the 2024 state budget plan, the draft state budget plan and the proposed allocation of the central budget for 2025, and the 2025-2027 financial and state budget plan, on which a verification report was later delivered by Le Quang Manh, member of the NA Standing Committee and Chairman of the NA Committee for Financial and Budgetary Affairs.

Member of the NA Standing Committee and Chairwoman of the NA Committee for Social Affairs Nguyen Thuy Anh delivered a report on revisions to the draft law amending and supplementing several articles of the Law on Pharmacy. This was followed by a plenary discussion on the draft law.

After that, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan gave further information about some issues mentioned by legislators.

The afternoon session, directed by NA Vice Chairman Nguyen Khac Dinh, shifted focus to the draft Data Law. Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang presented a detailed report on the bill.

A verification report on the draft Data Law was delivered by member of the NA Standing Committee and Chairman of the NA Committee on National Defence and Security Le Tan Toi.

Member of the NA Standing Committee and Chairwoman of the NA Committee for Judicial Affairs Le Thi Nga presented a report on revisions to the draft amended Law on Prevention and Control of Human Trafficking.

After legislators discussed some debatable issues of the draft law, Minister Quang addressed various concerns raised, ensuring that lawmakers had a clear understanding of the proposed amendments and their implications./.

Vietnamese, Lao border localities hold joint exercise on fighting drug crime

General Phan Van Giang, Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence, and Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Chansamone Chanyalath co-directed a joint exercise on combating cross-border drug crimes within the framework of the second Vietnam-Laos border defence friendship exchange on October 22.

The event was jointly organised by the Border Guard Command of Vietnam's northwestern province of Son La province, and the police agency and the Military Command of Laos' Houaphanh province.

The Vietnam-Laos border has been identified as one of the key areas for the transit, trade, and transport of drugs. Since 2020, the authorities of the two countries have collaborated in busting nearly 30 significant drug cases, seizing tonnes of various types of drugs. Recently, the Vietnam Border Guard and the Laos Border Guard and the Lao Ministry of Public Security's General Department of Police have effectively cooperated in combating drug-related crimes along the shared border.

In accordance with the protocol on border cooperation between the two Ministries of National Defence, in recent years, the border guards of Son La have effectively coordinated with the border management and protection forces of Houaphanh in border protection and crime prevention efforts, contributing to building a borderline of peace, friendship, stability and development.

According to Colonel Ban Van Chanh, Deputy Commander of the Border Guard Command of Son La, recent cooperation efforts, particularly in combating drug-related crimes, between the border guard forces of Son La and Houaphanh have been carried out regularly and effectively.

The exercise demonstrated the fundamental aspects of cooperation between the law enforcement forces of the two countries, and provided an opportunity for the forces to share experience and gain a deeper mutual understanding, thus enhancing their coordination to achieve the highest effectiveness in managing and protecting the border, as well as in fighting crimes, Chanh said.

Colonel Vongthong Khamthavongsa, Deputy Commander of the Military Command of Houaphanh province, said the exercise has further strengthened the solidarity between the border protection forces of the two countries./.

NA deliberates over draft revised law on human trafficking

Continuing the agenda of the 8th session, the 15th National Assembly on October 22 heard a report and provided feedback on the draft revised Law on Prevention and Control of Human Trafficking.

Chairwoman of the NA Committee for Judicial Affairs Le Thi Nga highlighted a pivotal change in the draft law: the definition of "human trafficking" has been broadened beyond the existing Criminal Code and laws. Notably, those aged 16 to under 18 will be considered victims of human trafficking based solely on the nature of the act and the intent behind it. This adjustment ensures that they receive the same level of protection as those under 16, aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The NA Standing Committee expressed support for this expanded definition, saying that it will provide a solid foundation to fine-tune criminal and criminal procedure laws while raising public awareness of the issue.

Some opinions suggested the inclusion of the act of "bargaining to buy or sell a person while still in the fetal stage" to the definition of "human trafficking" in Clause 1, Article 2 of the draft law. This addition would serve as a legal basis to more effectively combat the practice of pre-birth human trafficking.

Deputies also proposed revisions to ensure that those under 18 who accompany victims, or those in the process of being identified as victims, receive support akin to that of recognised victims. This support would exclude vocational training, job counseling, initial allowances and loan assistance, but would align with existing regulations./.

Vietnam treasures long-term relations with China: Deputy PM

The Party and Government of Vietnam always attaches importance to strengthening and developing the friendly neighbourliness and comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son told Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam He Wei at their meeting in Hanoi on October 22.

Son, who also serves as Chairman of the Vietnam - China Steering Committee for Bilateral Cooperation, stated that this is an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority in Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and multilateralisation and diversification and external relations.

The Vietnamese official suggested the Ambassador and Embassy of China help promote relevant Chinese agencies' close coordination with Vietnam's ministries, sectors, and localities to implement the high-level common perceptions.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining and promoting exchanges and meetings at all levels between the two Parties and the two countries, and strengthening practical cooperation in various fields to achieve even more fruitful results, thus bringing tangible benefits to the people of both nations.

The two sides need to step up people-to-people exchanges to consilidate a solid social foundation and create new momentum for the development of bilateral relations. They should continue to maintain close cooperation and mutual support at multilateral mechanisms and forums, collaborate in properly managing the land border, and work together to maintain peace and stability at sea, he stressed.

The Deputy PM and FM urged the two sides to seriously implement the high-level common preceptions, as well as the agreement on basic principles guiding the settlement of sea-related issues between Vietnam and China, appropriately address issues related to fishing vessels and fishermen, and respect each other's rights and legitimate interests. They should resolve disputes and differences by peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

For his part, the Chinese Ambassador expressed his honour in taking on his position at a time when the China - Vietnam comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership is entering a new phase – building a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

He respectfully conveyed the greetings of Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Director of the Office of the CPC Central Committee’s Commission for Foreign Affairs, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Chairman of the China - Vietnam Steering Committee for Bilateral Cooperation, to Son.

Agreeing with his host's opinions, the diplomat affirmed that he will make efforts to promote the implementation of high-level agreements and common perceptions, thus actively contributing to the building of a China - Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, towards bringing practical benefits to the two countries' people.

He expressed his hope to continue receiving the attention, support, and facilitation from the Government and relevant ministries, sectors, and localities of Vietnam during his term of office./.

Speaker of Malaysian House of Representatives begins official visit to Vietnam

Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia Tan Sri Dato' Johari Bin Abdul and his spouse arrived in Hanoi on October 22 afternoon, beginning their four-day official visit to Vietnam.

The visit is made at the invitation of Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Tran Thanh Man.

Welcoming the Malaysian delegation at the Noi Bai International Airport were Tran Thi Hong An, standing member of the NA’s Committee for External Relations and Vice Chairwoman of the Vietnam-ASEAN Parliamentary Friendship Group, and Malaysian Ambassador to Vietnam Tan Yang Thai.

Vietnam and Malaysia established diplomatic relations on March 30, 1973, and upgraded them to a strategic partnership in August 2015. The multifaceted cooperation between the two nations has developed well. They celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2023 and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership in 2025. The two sides have exchanged high-level delegations regularly, thus enhancing political trust.

The relations between Vietnam’s National Assembly and Malaysia’s House of Representatives and Senate have been consolidated and enhanced at both bilateral level and within the framework of the inter-parliamentary forums such as the ASEAN Inter - Parliamentary Assembly, the Inter - Parliamentary Union, and the Asia – Pacific Parliamentary Forum, contributing to promoting the ties between the two nations.

The two countries have recorded positive economic-trade cooperation achievements over the recent past, with Malaysia among top trading and investment partners of Vietnam.

As of August, Malaysia was the second largest trading partner of Vietnam in ASEAN and the 11th largest globally, while Vietnam was the third biggest trading partner of the former in the regional bloc.

Two-way trade turnover reached 12.5 billion USD in 2021, 14.67 billion USD in 2022, 12.66 billion USD in 2023, and 10.64 billion USD in the first nine months of this year. The two countries are striving towards a trade revenue of 18 billion USD by 2025 and 25 billion USD by 2030.

Vietnam has exported telephones and components, crude oil, rice, and coffee to Malaysia, and imported computers and electronic products, machinery and equipment, petroleum, household appliances and components, and chemicals from Malaysia.

As of September, Malaysia ranked 10th among the 148 countries and territories landing investment in Vietnam, with nearly 13 billion USD registered in 748 projects covering education and training, production, power distribution, gas, water, and manufacturing and processing industry.

Besides, the bilateral cooperation in security – defence has been unceasingly strengthened, with regular exchanges of delegations at all levels as well as experience and information sharing regarding the prevention of terrorism, cybercrimes and trans-national crimes.

The two countries have also witnessed rosy collaboration in labour, education and tourism. The Vietnamese community with over 30,000 people in Malaysia have served as a bridge to promote the traditional relations between the two nations./.

Deputy PM holds phone talks with Russian counterpart

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha held phone talks with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Nikolayevich Chernyshenko on October 22 to seek measures for fostering the two countries' partnerships in various spheres.

At the event, the two Deputy PMs exchanged their views and agreed on the signing of the Vietnam - Russia cooperation development plan by 2030, as well as the implementation roadmap in the areas of industry, health care, agriculture, and trade, among others. They also discussed principles related to the collaboration in oil and gas and several traditional energy sectors, a roadmap for cooperation in agriculture, and the construction of a Russian school in Hanoi.

Ha, who is also Chairman of the Vietnamese subcommittee under the Vietnam - Russia Intergovernmental Committee for Economic - Trade and Scientific - Technological Cooperation, suggested the two sides maintain communications to handle any issues arising during the implementation of cooperation programmes and projects in a timely fashion.

Besides, he proposed exploring an approach to sign intergovernmental cooperation agreements on some important and priority areas.

Ha and his Russian counterpart, who is also Chairman of the Russian subcommittee under the Intergovernmental Committee, highlighted several measures to further enhance bilateral cooperation in such areas as agriculture, industry, energy - oil and gas, information - communications, science - education, and culture - sports in a more effective manner.

They also talked about ways for promoting tourism, people-to-people exchange, the teaching of the Vietnamese and Russian languages in each other's countries, the maintenance of scholarships for Vietnamese students, and the attraction of Russian students to Vietnam./.

Second Vietnam-Laos border defence friendship exchange kicks off

The second Vietnam-Laos border defence friendship exchange began with a welcome ceremony for the Lao delegation at Long Sap Border Gate in Vietnam’s northern province of Son La on October 22.

The welcome ceremony was chaired by Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Phan Van Giang. The Lao delegation was led by Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Chansamone Chanyalath.

Apart from Moc Chau, the two-day exchange will feature activities in Sop Bao district of the Lao province of Houaphanh. They include tree planting, a joint exercise on cross-border crime combat, handover of gifts, 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.

Its first edition was held in 2021 in Huong Hoa district of Vietnam’s central province of Quang Tri, and Sepon district of Savanakhet province of Laos./.

Ceremony held to hand over work of State President

The Presidential Office on October 22 held a ceremony for the transfer of work between Party General Secretary To Lam and State President Luong Cuong.

Prominent at the event were Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

Lam officially handed over the tasks of the State President to Cuong. He asked the Party Central Committee’s Office, the Presidential Office and relevant agencies to report detailed affairs to the new State President right after the handover ceremony.

The Party chief expressed his firm belief that with his enthusiasm, high sense of responsibility, and extensive experience, Cuong will quickly adapt to his new role and give timely and effective guidance, working along with the Party Central Committee, the Politburo, the Secretariat, the National Assembly, the Government, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front to lead the people to the successful implementation of the Resolution adopted at the 13th National Party Congress, thus steering the country into a new, brighter era.

In his remarks, Cuong pledged to make efforts to carry forward achievements by Lam and generations of Vietnamese State leaders.

He also called on the staff of the Presidential Office to continue staying united and uphold the sense of responsibility, dedication, diligence, proactiveness, and creativity to fulfill all tasks.

Earlier, the State leader offered incense in tribute to late President Ho Chi Minh at House 67 inside the Presidential Palace complex.

The 15th-tenure National Assembly (NA) elected Cuong as President of Vietnam for the 2021 - 2026 term at its ongoing 8th session on October 21.

The parliament adopted a resolution on the election of Cuong, Politburo member, Permanent member of the 13th-tenure Party Central Committee’s Secretariat, and NA deputy of the 15th tenure, as President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the 2021 - 2026 term.

Taking the oath, the new President pledged to stay absolutely loyal to the Fatherland, the people, and the Constitution, and to exert efforts to fulfil the tasks assigned by the Party, the State, and the people.

After that, he delivered an inaugural address in front of the parliament./.

Vietnam fosters legislative ties with foreign countries

Chairman of the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs Committee Vu Hai Ha has held meetings with representatives from Canada, Norway, and Ukraine on the sidelines of the 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA-45) in Vientiane.

At the October 20 meeting with Canadian Senator Yuen Pau Woo, the two sides shared the view that the Vietnam-Canada cooperation has been growing strongly across spheres since the establishment of the bilateral diplomatic ties in 1973.

The upgrade of the relationship to a comprehensive partnership in 2017 has facilitated collaboration in such areas as economy, trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange, they said.

Woo expressed his interest in Vietnam’s electric vehicle and motorcycle manufacturer Vinfast and his hope for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) to create more opportunities for businesses of both countries.

Regarding infrastructure, he suggested Vietnam consider inviting Canadian investors and architects to share their expertise in large-scale projects, such as the high-speed railway system between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

On foreign affairs and defence, the two countries have been maintaining their active diplomatic relations and regularly exchanging high-level delegations. Vietnam took note and highly valued Canada's role in regional security issues, particularly its stance on the East Sea and its support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982).

Vietnam has sent an invitation to Canada to attend the conference of the Executive Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie slated for January 2025 in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho.

The same day, Ha met with Erna Solberg from the Norwegian parliamentary delegation, during which they highlighted the fruitful cooperation between the two countries, especially in maritime and forestry matters, and renewable energy.

The Vietnamese legislator used the occasion to call for Norway’s support to his country in energy transition.

Regarding regional issues, the two sides shared the view on the need to settle disputes by peaceful measures, not use or threaten to use force, and abide by the UNCLOS 1982, as well as the need to ensure freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea.

Meeting Oleksandr Merezhko, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Policy and Inter-parliamentary Cooperation and head of the Ukraine delegation, Ha noted that Vietnam is deeply concerned over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, and shares with Ukrainian people over the immense losses and suffering they are enduring.

Vietnam continues to call for an end to the conflict, for the restoration of peace and the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, he said.

As an active and responsible member of the international community, Vietnam stands ready to contribute to promoting dialogue and seeking solutions to stabilise the situation, for peace and stability in the region and the world at large, he noted./.

Improving capacity at grassroots level is key to solve hospital overcrowding

Hospital overcrowding has been an existing problem for many years. According to experts, improving the general capacity at the grassroots level remains a long-term solution.

According to Associate Professor Phan Lê Thu Hằng, deputy director of the Department of Financial Planning, Ministry of Health, the health sector has had a specific project on reducing hospital overload as approved in the Prime Minister’s Decision No. 93 TTg in 2013.

The project identifies a number of synchronous solutions to address hospital overloading, but Việt Nam still needs time to solve this situation in a systematic and complete way.

She said hospital overloading had been assessed as the consequence of a combination of two main causes: Lack of capacity to provide medical services at the local level, compared to actual demand and the excessive increase in demand for central level medical services.

It is important to note that supply shortages may occur at both the national and socio-economic regional levels, according to Hằng. This suggests that, in order to improve central healthcare service (the highest level of healthcare) provision, it is not only necessary to focus on increasing the total supply, but also on the reasonable distribution of central hospitals in geographical space.

To achieve the optimal balance between supply and demand for central-level medical services, Associate Professor Hằng suggested increasing supply to keep up with the increase in real demand and limit the excessive increase in demand for central-level medical services.

She pointed out that only about 20 per cent of people who are sick need to be hospitalised. Among those, 15 per cent only need basic treatment and only 5 per cent are seriously ill and need specialised treatment. The remaining 80 per cent of people with mild illnesses or who are not sick need only primary health care services.

The central-level hospitals are designed to meet the health care needs of seriously ill patients who require intensive treatment, or five per cent of people.

The coverage of central-level hospitals is currently limited. Most central-level hospitals are located in Hà Nội, HCM City. The Central Highlands region currently do not have a central level hospital, according to Hằng.

The operational capacity of central-level hospitals might be hindered by the priority of activities that generate large revenues to ensure financial balance, which could cause the overall operation of the hospital to become unbalanced, she told the Government portal.

“To reasonably strengthen the supply of central-level medical services, it is necessary to first accurately assess the current situation as well as forecast the increasing demand for central-level medical services including total demand and demand by medical speciality,” she said.

"To limit the excessive increase in demand for central-level health services, systematic efforts are needed. It is necessary to enhance proactive preventive interventions and health promotion while strengthening the capacity of the primary health care system.

"It is also necessary to establish a comprehensive health care chain, with an optimal balance between primary health care, basic health care and specialised health care," she said. 

Deputy PM Hà calls for strengthened measures to enhance aviation security

Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà requested the Ministry of Transport (MoT) to develop and organise drills to respond to aviation security incidents at both the busiest and less crowded airports, ensuring aviation security and safety.

Speaking at the National Civil Aviation Security Committee's meeting on Tuesday, Deputy PM Hà, who is also the chairman of the committee, emphasised the need for a comprehensive assessment of aviation risks. It should include the development, issuance and implementation of security programmes, safety management, incident reporting, equipment status and workforce training.

Reports from the MoT show that since the beginning of 2024, aviation security tasks have been implemented in a coordinated, high-quality and timely manner. Risks threatening aviation security have been effectively controlled.

In the first ten months of 2024, airport security forces detected 223 violations of aviation security, including illegal transportation of weapons, controlled substances and drugs, theft at airports, false bomb threats and improper use of identification for boarding.

Various ministries, sectors and enterprises have coordinated efforts to improve aviation security capabilities through training and drills on handling unlawful interference in civil aviation. They also worked on raising awareness of aviation security and safety laws, along with conducting inspections.

The MoT has closely coordinated with the Ministries of National Defence, Public Security and Foreign Affairs to advise the committee on directing relevant agencies, localities with airports and aviation businesses to implement comprehensive measures for preventing and combating threats to aviation security.

International cooperation on aviation security has been strengthened and Việt Nam has been a positive and responsible contributor to the international community, updating information from ICAO and international experiences to develop policies ensuring security.

At the meeting, aviation authorities assessed the periodic risks to aviation safety and security, the organisational structure of the committee and its sub-agencies in relation to their functions, international practices, security regulations and cooperation between relevant agencies. 

They also discussed airport infrastructure upgrades and training for air traffic controllers.

In conclusion, Deputy PM Hà highlighted that aviation security was a matter of national security, involving many aspects such as flight operations, immigration control, baggage screening, aircraft maintenance and in-flight catering.

Therefore, ensuring aviation security would require a unified, comprehensive and consistent approach, separating the state's management responsibilities from tasks that businesses can perform.

The Deputy PM requested the MoT to review regulations to strengthen the committee and consider proposing the establishment of an independent investigative body for aviation safety and security incidents, following ICAO recommendations.

He also instructed the MoT to work with relevant ministries to develop and organise drills for responding to security breaches, including incidents involving unauthorised flying objects or cyber-attacks on air traffic control systems.

The Ministry of Information and Communications, the MoT, the Ministry of Public Security, and the State Capital Management Committee were asked to direct aviation enterprises to urgently implement measures to address information security vulnerabilities.

The Deputy PM emphasised the need to formalise aviation security and safety measures into detailed, standardised, modernised processes, whether for normal flying days or during holidays and peak periods. 

HCM City event promotes digital transformation

The 2024 HCM City Digital Transformation Week encourages the participation of citizens, authorities and businesses in the city’s digital transformation process, fostering sustainable digital economy development in the southern city.

With the theme “Digital technology - a new growth driver for HCM City”, the two-day event officially opened to visitors at Riverside Palace in District 4 from October 22.

In response to National Digital Transformation Day (October 10), it is organised by the city’s Department of Information and Communications, in collaboration with the HCM City Computer Association (HCA) and various organisations.

Lý Minh Tuân, head of Information Technology Division under the HCM City’s Department of Information and Communications, said the event creates opportunities for connection, exchange and cooperation between State agencies and technology solution providers, especially those offering new technology products and solutions using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address critical issues in key sectors and daily life.

“This contributes to improving the efficiency of digital transformation and innovative startups, and promoting comprehensive digital transformation,” he said.

The event features numerous activities, such as a technology exhibition featuring 50 booths showcasing achievements, models, and digital platforms from different departments, industries and localities. 

There is also an area to experience digital transformation solutions and applications in many fields from typical technology enterprises in the city.

The workshop's activities include one plenary session and six thematic workshops, focusing on the potential of applying technology in digital transformation in the fields of digital technology, infrastructure and information security, semiconductor technology, AI, digital office, and new technology.

Vũ Anh Tuấn, general secretary of HCA, said there will be digital platforms and many digital transformation applications of the city such as digital maps, traffic jam warning applications, and flood alert applications.

The discussions for the business sector will focus on finding effective solutions to help companies integrate technology into their production and business operations.

The attendees will be able to share experiences, learn from one another, and collaboratively identify solutions to overcome challenges in the digital transformation process. 

Nguyễn Đức Chung, deputy director of the city’s Digital Transformation Centre, said the centre will continue to present digital platforms that the city has developed and implemented to date.

The city is actively coordinating with relevant stakeholders to assess information security compliance in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Public Security to launch the app "Digital Citizen" in November.

This assessment will ensure safe connectivity with the VNeID application, safeguarding residents' information when the service is rolled out, he said.

Rail tickets now available for purchase on online map services

Train passengers can now buy their tickets on online map services such as Google Maps, according to the Việt Nam Railways (VNR).

The service has been launched in celebration of the 78th anniversary of Việt Nam Railways Traditional Day (October 21, 1946-2024).

This allows travellers from anywhere to search for train schedules and purchase train tickets for their trips in Việt Nam.

The online map services also offer information in various languages for user's convenience. Passengers can purchase their train tickets with international payment cards or via Google Pay, Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

“Train ticket services through online maps can be seen as the next step in the success of our collaboration for ticket sales with local e-wallets and applications, which aims to diversify points of purchase and reach more customers,” said a VNR representative. 

Việt Nam seeks to speed up new drug access

A draft version of the revised Pharmacy Law will be presented to the ongoing National Assembly session to enhance public access to new medicines.

Only nine per cent of new medicines have been introduced in Việt Nam over the past decade, far lower than that in other Asia-Pacific countries (20 per cent).

The Head of Legal and Integration Department at the Drug Administration of Vietnam, Chu Đăng Trung, explained that the version will focus on improving the efficiency of administrative processes.

Key changes include streamlining the approval procedures for drug circulation and introducing a reliance mechanism to facilitate pharmaceutical recognition.

Experts expect the legal proposal will enable Vietnamese patients to access new medicines as quickly as or faster than their regional counterparts.

Countries like Singapore and the Philippines have adopted similar mechanisms to allow new medicines to reach their markets within four and ten months, while Việt Nam currently faces delays of up to two years.

The draft version is also expected to incentivise pharmaceutical companies to prioritise the Vietnamese market for new drug launches. Additionally, it will help prevent supply shortages caused by bottlenecks in drug registration.

Pharmaceutical specialist Trung also notes that the version aims to promote the development of Việt Nam’s pharmaceutical industry, focusing on research and technological advancement in innovative drugs, vaccines, and high-tech pharmaceuticals.

It will grant foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) greater freedom to directly distribute their medicines in Việt Nam, a move aimed at attracting more investment in the sector.

Experts have urged the Ministry of Health to implement a plan to ensure no legal gaps occur after December 31, 2024, when current drug circulation registrations expire.

Việt Nam aims to position itself as a regional hub for high-value pharmaceutical production, with goals to reach USD$1 billion in pharmaceutical exports by 2030 and $20 billion by 2045. 

VNA/VNN/VNS/VOV