A commemorative plaque for Thien Quang lake flower garden was unveiled in Hanoi on October 18 in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Capital Liberation (October 10).

The garden project has total investment of over 88.7 billion VND (3.54 million USD), with construction cost amounting to 67.1 billion VND. Its construction began on February 5, designed to provide a much-needed space for cultural and sport activities in the heart of the city, according to the Hai Ba Trung district People’s Committee.

Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Duong Duc Tuan said in line with the municipal Party Committee’s programme on urban and economic development in Hanoi for the 2021-2025 period, the city has focused on renovating and upgrading parks and flower gardens, with remarkable results.

He asked the district to continue completing the renovation of Thong Nhat park and relic sites like Quang Hoa, Thien Quang and Phap Hoa pagodas. The goal is to create a harmonious cultural and green space that seamlessly connects with Tran Nhan Tong pedestrian street, transforming the area into a lively hub for culture, arts and community activities.

This initiative is a crucial step toward building a green, clean, beautiful, civilised, modern Hanoi which is rich in culture, he stressed./.

Over 100 burials from 4000 years ago discovered in Hanoi

Archaeologists from the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology, the Hanoi Museum and the Hanoi University of Social Sciences and Humanities have announced the discovery of over 70 graves from the pre-Dong Son period and 40 graves from Dong Son period at the Vuon Chuoi archaeological relic in Kim Chung commune, Hoai Duc district.

The pre-Dong Son period dates back approximately 4,000 years, while the Dong Son period is around 2,500 years old.

The excavation began this March, covering an area of over 6,000sq.m with 60 research pits, each measuring 100sq.m.

Some of the remains were found adorned with numerous bracelets on both arms, alongside the practice of extracting front teeth and burying ceramic and bronze items with the remains.

"Among these findings, an important characteristic is that the pre-Dong Son graves show a practice of extracting front teeth in adults, which is not observed in the Dong Son cultural period," said Associate Professor-Doctor Nguyen Lan Cuong, Secretary General of the Vietnam Archaeological Association.

"For the first time, Vietnam has an archaeological relic with such a large number of graves that have been well-preserved," he added.

These new findings will assist scientists in further exploring aspects such as anthropology, genetics, pathology, mobility and dietary practices of ancient Vietnamese people during the Chalcolithic period and the Bronze Age in northern Vietnam.

This excavation also uncovered many traces of hearths, ceramics and weapons, alongside other remains made of stone, bronze, ceramics, wood and iron from different periods, ranging from the late Phung Nguyen to the late Dong Son.

Another significant discovery from the recent excavation at Vuon Chuoi is traces of post holes as the remains of architectural structures related to the housing of the Dong Son people.

The discovery opens up new opportunities for understanding the architecture and the spatial arrangement of living spaces within the village of ancient Vietnamese during the Dong Son period.

"We have currently reconstructed the architecture of two long house structures, similar to those of certain ethnic groups in the Central Highlands region," said Associate Professor-Doctor Lam Thi My Dung from the Hanoi University of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Dr Nguyen Ngoc Quy from the Institute of Archaeology said that the findings from the excavation provide evidence confirming that Vuon Chuoi was a village established and continuously developed by humans from the Chalcolithic period to the Bronze Age, dating back 2,000 to 4,000 years.

“The excavation and research results have provided substantial material evidence of early human presence in the area that is now Hanoi," he said.

"Furthermore, they demonstrate the origins and history of the Vietnamese people from prehistoric times, from the era of Hung Kings.”

The archaeologists have asked for permission from the Hanoi People's Committee and the Department of Culture and Sports to continue excavating the remaining parts of the site.

In particular, they hope to expedite the recognition of the Vuon Chuoi archaeological relic as a city-level heritage site, along with plans for its preservation, conservation, and enhancement its value.

Vuon Chuoi was first discovered in 1969 by the Vietnam Institute of Archaeology and has to date undergone eleven excavations.

Metal Age archaeological relics from the Phung Nguyen, Dong Dau, and Go Mun periods to the Dong Son period in northern Vietnam are extremely rare, with only two remaining sites, including Vuon Chuoi and Dong Dau in neighbouring Vinh Phuc province./.

PM’s visits to solidify ties with Gulf nations: Deputy FM

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's upcoming official visits to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, and his working trip to Saudi Arabia for attendance at the 8th Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) from October 27 to November 1, are of significance to strengthening political trust and fostering economic, trade, and investment ties between Vietnam and the three Gulf nations, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang told the press.

Hang said these trips will mark the first official visits to the UAE and Qatar by a Vietnamese PM over the past 15 years, and the first-ever visit to Saudi Arabia since the two countries established diplomatic relations. It also marks the first time the PM is invited as the chief guest and the only high-ranking leader in Asia to address the IFF.

She stressed that the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, along with the broader Gulf region, are not only major partners, markets and investors, but also financial and technology hubs, offering vast potential for cooperation with Vietnam.

The PM’s visits and attendance at the FII is a practical step in realising the 13th National Party Congress’s foreign policy of multilateralisation and diversification of external ties, active and proactive international integration, with a priority to the diversification of markets, partners and supply chains, contributing to reinforcing an environment of peace and cooperation, while maximising resources for national development, she said.

In Vietnam’s foreign policy, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are identified as important, long-term, and comprehensive partners in various fields in the Middle East. These countries also view Vietnam as a key partner in Southeast Asia, aligning with their "Look East" policy.

The relations between Vietnam and the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have been growing, with increasingly close cooperation and mutual support at various multilateral forums, Hang said.

The UAE stands as Vietnam's largest export market in the Middle East and Africa, with two-way trade reaching 4.7 billion USD in 2023. In the first seven months of this year, Vietnam's exports to the UAE surged by 51% year on year to 3.37 billion USD. The two countries are negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aiming to conclude the negotiations during the PM’s visit. As of June 2024, the UAE had 41 projects valued at 71.6 million USD in Vietnam, and there were about 3,000 Vietnamese workers in the UAE.

Saudi Arabia is Vietnam's third largest trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa, with two-way trade hitting 2.68 billion USD in 2023. Major economic groups from Saudi Arabia are increasingly interested in Vietnam, and there are around 4,000 Vietnamese workers in the country.

Meanwhile, Qatar, with its strong potential in energy and finance, presents significant economic and investment opportunities for Vietnam. Two-way trade amounted to 497.2 million USD in 2023, up 32% year on year. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has been actively studying and accelerating investment projects, particularly in the fields of real estate and industry in Vietnam. Progress has also been made in education and labour cooperation.

During his visits, the PM is scheduled to hold talks and meetings with top leaders, investment funds, and major corporations of the three countries with the aim of enhancing the bilateral ties comprehensively and effectively, especially in areas such as market opening, labour, education, culture, sports, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, climate change response, and emerging fields like sci-tech, clean energy, digital transformation, innovation, and the Halal industry.

He will also deliver keynote speeches conveying Vietnam's development orientations and foreign policy, not only toward the three countries but also toward the Middle East. This engagement is poised to contribute to the development of each country as well as peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and around the world, Hang added./.

Lawmakers chart course for 2024-2025 socio-economic development

The 15th National Assembly continued its 8th session in Hanoi on October 26, focusing on group discussions that shape socio-economic landscapes for 2024 and 2025.

They deliberated on a range of issues, including the results of implementing the socio-economic development plan for 2024; the draft socio-economic development plan for 2025, the enforcement of the Constitution, laws and resolutions of the NA, and the NA Standing Committee’s ordinances and resolutions.

A focal point of the discussions was the State budget performance in 2024, and the State budget estimate and allocation plan of the central budget for 2025. Other topics included adjustments and supplements to the State budget estimate, adjustments to the national land use planning for 2021-2030 with a vision to 2050, and the policy on additional State investment in the Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank).

According to the Government's report, Vietnam’s economy is on a robust growth trajectory, with GDP growth reaching 6.82% in the first nine months of this year. The whole year's growth is projected to stands at 6.8-7%, surpassing the NA's target of 6-6.5%. The average consumer price index increased by 3.88% in the nine months, while State budget revenues exceeded 85% of the estimate, up 17.9% year on year. Notably, nearly 200 trillion VND (8.3 billion USD) in taxes, fees, and land rents have been exempted, reduced, or extended for the entire year, providing much-needed relief to businesses and individuals alike.

Trade volume hit 578.5 billion USD in the first three quarters, up 16.3% year on year, with a trade surplus of nearly 20.8 billion USD. The economic structure is evolving, shifting towards a digital and green economy. This transition is marked by an increase in the proportion of the industrial, construction and service sectors, while the agricultural sector's share is declining.

Looking ahead to 2025, the Government prioritises fueling growth by renewing traditional growth drivers and advancing new growth engines. Key tasks include maintaining macro-economic stability, controlling inflation, and ensuring major balances of the economy. The Government aims to improve credit quality and achieve credit growth of over 15%.

A stronger emphasis will be placed on development institutions, with a renewed mindset focused on tight management while fostering growth and maximising resource mobilisation to create new development spaces. The Government is committed to decisively cutting and simplifying administrative procedures, promoting decentralisation, and allocating resources.

Human resource development remains a priority. The Government plans to continue accelerating basic and comprehensive reform in education and training, enhance cultural development, and improve the material and spiritual lives and health of people. Efforts to combat corruption, negative phenomena, and wastefulness will be intensified, with a focus on building a clean, integrity-driven, action-oriented government that serves the people.

In the afternoon, deputies engaged in a debate on the draft revised Law on Electricity./.

Vietnam, DPRK hold 5th deputy foreign minister-level policy exchange

Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu paid a working visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) from October 21-26, and co-chaired the 5th Vietnam - DPRK policy exchange at the deputy foreign ministerial level.

At the dialogue, Vu and his DPRK counterpart Pak Sang Gil discussed the situation of each country, showing their delight at the recent development of bilateral relations in politics, diplomacy, defence, security, culture and sports.

Vu affirmed Vietnam's consistent stance of treasuring and wishing to promote stronger and more practical cooperative ties with the DPRK across fields based on adherence to international law, in line with the aspirations of the two countries' people, thus contributing to maintaining peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

Regarding political relations, the two sides agreed to continue promoting delegation exchanges, thereby continually strengthening political trust and expanding substantive cooperation between the two countries; and coordinate to prepare for activities to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2025.

They also agreed to strengthen cooperation in the areas of culture, sports, and tourism; promote exchange activities and exchange of delegations between the two countries' people organisations; and encourage and facilitate expanded exchanges and cooperation across channels, including localities, to further deepen the traditional friendship between the two nations.

The officials also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common concern, including maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the East Sea. They concurred to continue close coordination and mutual support at international and regional forums, such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). They agreed to hold the 6th Vietnam - DPRK policy exchange at the deputy foreign ministerial level in Vietnam in the coming time.

During his trip, Vu paid a courtesy call on DPRK Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; had working sessions with representatives of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) and the Ministry of External Economic Relations; and attended the opening ceremony of a photo exhibition on Vietnam-DPRK relations in celebration of the 60th anniversary of DPRK leader Kim Il Sung's second visit to Vietnam./.

Vietnam chairs working luncheon of UNCLOS Group of Friends founding countries

Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, hosted a working luncheon in New York on October 25 with ambassadors and representatives of the founding countries of the Group of Friends on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to discuss measures to further promote its coordination and cooperation activities.

Addressing the gathering marking the 30th anniversary of the Convention's entry into force, Giang expressed his delight at the group's remarkable growth over the past three years, with its current membership exceeding 120 and engaging in a wide range of activities.

He extended his gratitude to the key countries for their support in upholding the values, integrity and universality of the UNCLOS during the recent negotiation processes at the UN.

Assistant to the Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu affirmed that over the past three decades, the UNCLOS has served as a solid legal framework to foster cooperation and ensure the legitimate rights and interests of nations at sea, contributing to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of seas, oceans and marine resources.

Ambassadors and representatives of countries praised Vietnam's leading role and core contributions to elevating the role and image of the Group at the UN. They noted that the Group's activities have created a forum to share ideas and discuss various aspects of sea management and use, further reinforcing the value of the UNCLOS in tackling new maritime challenges.

The luncheon saw delegates discussing recent major progress in the field of oceans and maritime law, including the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), and the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels to the international legal framework governing the seas.

Giang and Vu called on the founding countries to continue sharing ideas to further enhance the role of the Group in promoting and affirming the value and vitality of the UNCLOS, especially as the convention marks its 30th anniversary this year.

The UNCLOS Group of Friends, an informal platform for dialogue and coordination among countries, was initiated by Vietnam and co-chaired with Germany in 2020. Originally comprising 12 founding countries, including Argentina, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Jamaica, Kenya, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Senegal, South Africa, and Vietnam, the Group has since then grown to include over 120 countries representing all geographic regions./.

Vietnam to make positive contributions to common work of G77 and China: Ambassador

Vietnam, as one of the founding members, will continue to make positive contributions to the common affairs of the Group of 77 and China in the spirit of cooperation, friendship, and promotion of multilateralism, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, has said.

The Vietnamese diplomat made the statement when addressing a ceremony celebrating the 60th founding anniversary of the G77 and China in New York on October 25, which saw the attendance of President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang and ambassadors of member countries of the group.

The G77 and China is one of the most important groups at the UN, not only because of the largest number of members but also because of the spirit of solidarity in promoting economic and development priorities for developing nations, Giang said.

At the Sustainable Development Summit 2023 and the Summit of the Future 2024, the group promoted the common stance to protect the interests and priorities of developing countries in implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs), as well as mobilise finance sources and implementation methods to achieve these goals, he added.

The diplomat said Vietnam proposes to continue promoting priorities and demands of the G77 and China in major processes of the UN, strengthening South-South cooperation to support each other in the development process, and enhancing working methods, while maintaining traditional values to improve the Group's operational efficiency in the coming time./.

More congratulations sent to new State President of Vietnam

Leaders of Cambodia, Singapore, Italy, Kazakhstan, Finland, and the United Russia party have offered congratulations to Luong Cuong on his election as State President of Vietnam.

Prime Minister of Cambodia Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet expressed his confidence that under the leadership and vision of President Cuong, Vietnam will continue reaping socio-economic development achievements for the sake of its people and to actively contribute to international forums. He said he believes that the two countries’ long-standing relationship, based on the motto of good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, and long-term sustainability, will grow more strongly for the common benefits of their people.

Chairman of the United Russia party Dmitry Medvedev voiced his belief that with rich experience in state affairs, Cuong will promote the effective performance of major socio-economic development tasks of Vietnam, and enhance the country’s stature in the international arena. He also showed the determination to comprehensively step up the Vietnam - Russia comprehensive strategic partnership, including dialogue between the Untied Russia party and the Communist Party of Vietnam.

Meanwhile, President of Singapore Tharman Shanmugaratnam held that the strategic partnership between the two countries has been thriving in various spheres, particularly trade - investment, security - defence, education, and human resources development. He called for expanding cooperation to new areas such as clean energy, carbon credit, digital economy, and cooperation at multilateral forums, including ASEAN, to bring the Vietnam - Singapore relations to a new height. On this occasion, he invited President Cuong to pay a state visit to Singapore at a suitable point of time.

President of Italy Sergio Mattarella lauded the strong cohesion and friendship between the two countries, noting his optimism about the development of bilateral relations as well as the ties between Italy and ASEAN.

On this occasion, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and President of Finland Alexander Stubb also sent congratulatory letters to State President Cuong./.

Malaysian lower house speaker wraps up official visit to Vietnam

Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives Tan Sri Dato' Johari Bin Abdul and his entourage departed Hanoi on October 25 afternoon, concluding their four-day official visit to Vietnam.

While in Vietnam, the Malaysian leader paid respects to President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum, held talks with National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man, and met with Party General Secretary To Lam and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

His visit holds special significance as it took place when the two nations are looking towards the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership next year, contributing to fostering bilateral friendship and cooperation across all sectors and deepening collaboration between the Vietnamese NA and the Malaysian Parliament.

During the visit, the Vietnamese and Malaysian leaders agreed that over the past half a century, the countries’ relationship has advanced positively and practically, across the Party, State, and people-to-people channels and all fields. Vietnam and Malaysia have worked closely in regional and international forums, such as ASEAN, the UN, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). They form an important part of ASEAN and are accompanying each other to promote economic growth and sharing achievements in science, technology, and energy. Vietnam values and aims to strongly promote its strategic partnership with Malaysia, seeking to make the relationship more practical and effective, with the goal of elevating the ties to new heights. The National Assembly of Vietnam is ready to create favourable conditions for cooperation between the two nations. Both sides should enhance collaboration in investment, technology, tourism, trade, and energy, thereby expanding trade opportunities and maximizing each other's comparative advantages.

To strengthen the strategic partnership further, both sides concurred to increase all-level delegation exchanges, and effectively implement existing cooperation mechanisms and agreements, contributing to bolstering mutual strategic trust. They said the nations will strive for their bilateral trade goal of 18 billion USD, while making efforts to facilitate imports-exports and minimise trade barriers.

They reached agreements on mutual support for training Vietnamese localities and businesses in Halal production and certification processes, the facilitation of Malaysia’s import of Halal products from Vietnam, and the early signing of a Halal cooperation pact. The sides said they will explore the possibility of establishing direct flights between their popular destinations, facilitating trade and tourism. Enhanced collaboration in human resources, focusing on fields like science, technology, information technology, economy, and educational management, was also agreed upon.

The two sides said they will work with other ASEAN member states to maintain the bloc’s stance on the East Sea issue, promote the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the waters (DOC), and negotiate a substantive and effective Code of Conduct (COC) in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The sides also discussed a cooperation agreement between Vietnam’s NA and Malaysia’s House of Representatives and Senate to deepen legislative ties.

Malaysia agreed to support the Vietnamese community in the country in terms of residence, employment, education, so that they can contribute to Malaysia’s development as well as to the bilateral relationship./.

State President hosts Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission

State President Luong Cuong received Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China Sen. Lt. Gen. Zhang Youxia in Hanoi on October 25.

The host leader affirmed that Vietnam and China are neighbours sharing mountains and rivers and boasting a traditional friendship that features both comradeship and fraternity - a precious common asset of both nations needing to be maintained, inherited, and promoted.

Vietnam always views developing the friendship and cooperation with China as an objective requirement, a strategic choice, and a top priority in its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and diversification and multilateralisation of external relations, he stated.

The State President noted Vietnam always strongly supports and firmly believes that the Chinese people, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, with Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping being the core, will successfully realise the second centenary goal, thus making greater contributions to regional and global peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

Zhang expressed his delight at his first visit to Vietnam in the position of Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China. He congratulated Cuong on his election as President of Vietnam, as well as on the socio-economic development achievements the country has obtained during nearly 40 years of Doi moi (Renewal).

Both host and guest noted with satisfaction the strong strides in their countries’ relations, especially since the mutual visits by the two Parties’ leaders, during which the Vietnam - China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership was elevated to build a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, helping generate tangible benefits for the two countries' people and maintain peace, stability, and development in the region and the world.

Cuong spoke highly of the outcomes of the talks between the Vietnamese Minister of National Defence and Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of Vietnam, Phan Van Giang, and the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of China.

Highlighting the progress in bilateral defence ties, he asked the two countries’ central military commissions and defence ministries to further intensify bilateral defence cooperation through organising mutual visits at all levels, especially high levels, and effectively maintaining the available cooperation mechanisms.

Zhang said his visit aims to carry out the common perceptions reached by leaders of the two Parties and the two countries while fostering the two armies’ cooperation in national defence and security in an increasingly result-oriented manner.

As Vietnam will celebrate its 80th founding anniversary and the two countries will mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2025, the two sides will persevere in the path chosen by leaders of the two Parties and countries and enhance collaboration in various fields to build a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance for the sake of their people, according to the Chinese official./.

PM returns to Hanoi, wrapping up trip to Russia

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his entourage returned to Hanoi at noon on October 25, concluding their working trip to attend the expanded BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, made on October 23-24 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chair of BRICS 2024.

While there, Chinh had a busy schedule with 25 activities. In addition to the Expanded BRICS Summit events, he held bilateral meetings with over 30 heads of delegations and leaders from countries and international organisations, including the Party General Secretary and President of China; the Party General Secretary and President of Laos; the Presidents of Turkey, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Belarus, and Uzbekistan; the Secretary-General of the United Nations; and the Chairman of the Eurasian Economic Commission.

During his first visit to Russia in this new capacity, the Prime Minister met with President Putin, the Deputy Prime Minister, several ministers, and leaders of major Russian corporations to promote bilateral relations in various fields, including politics, diplomacy, economics, trade, science and technology, innovation, green transition, digital transformation, education and training, culture, and tourism.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son said that Chinh's working trip is a great success in both multilateral and bilateral aspects. The outcomes of his attendance at the summit, the talks with Russian President Putin, and bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries on this occasion once again affirm the soundness of the foreign policy of the 13th National Party Congress, enhance the country's position, and mobilising maximum international resources to serve development./.

Cuban Ambassador honoured with friendship insignia

Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam Orlando Nicolás Hernández Guillén was awarded the “For peace and friendship among nations” insignia of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO) in recognition of his contributions to the two countries’ relations.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony, VUFO President Phan Anh Son acknowledged the ambassador's efforts in enhancing the long-standing friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Cuba during his tenure in Vietnam from 2021 to present.

He said the diplomat has coordinated with agencies and organisations of Vietnam in consolidating and developing traditional friendship and special solidarity between the two countries across aspects, especially strengthening the ties and raising mutual understanding between Vietnamese and Cuban people, thus contributing to deepening bilateral ties.

During his tenure in Vietnam, the ambassador has worked closely with the VUFO, the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Association, and various Vietnamese agencies to organise numerous cultural events and commemorative activities. His involvement in the VUFO’s annual programmes and activities has been instrumental to their success.

Son expressed his belief that Ambassador Hernández Guillén will continue to make contributions to the Vietnam-Cuba relationship in any future role.

For his part, the ambassador expressed his gratitude to the invaluable support of the VUFO and other Vietnamese agencies during his tenure, and reaffirmed his dedication to fostering the Vietnam-Cuba relationship in the years ahead./.

Draft laws on urban and rural planning, notarisation to be scrutinised

National Assembly (NA) deputies will listen to a report on the explanation, acquirement, and revision of the draft Urban and Rural Planning Law, and discuss the bill at the hall in the legislature’s ongoing eighth session on October 25 morning.

At the end of the morning session, the National Assembly will hold a close-door discussion on personnel work. This topic will continue at the beginning of the afternoon session.

After that, the draft Law on Notarisation (amended) will be tabled, after law-makers listen to a report on the explanation, acquirement, and revision of this bill.

The 8th session is taking place in two phases, of which the first is from October 21 to November 13 and the second from November 20 to November 30 morning, with 29.5 working days.

The parliament is scheduled to spend most of the time on building laws, exercising the supreme supervisory power, and making decisions about socio-economic issues and some other important affairs./.

Competition promotes cultural exchange between Vietnamese, Chinese youths

The closing ceremony of a competition on the culture and people of Vietnam and China, and an art exchange programme for Vietnamese and Chinese students were held in the northern city of Hai Phong on October 26 by the city's Vietnam-China Friendship Association.

The competition aimed to provide a useful and healthy playground for both Vietnamese and Chinese students studying in Hai Phong to showcase their knowledge about the culture and people of Vietnam and China.

Pham Ngoc Dien, General Secretary of the municipal Vietnam-China Friendship Association, highlighted the enthusiastic participation in the competition over the past two months, with the involvement from students, youth members, and various organisations, including schools and language centers across the city.

The organising board received 380 works in both Vietnamese and Chinese languages, including 356 essays and 24 video clips from over 300 participants.

At the ceremony, the organising board presented 17 awards to outstanding works./.

Crackdown on "three Nos", “ghost” ships to combat IUU fishing: Deputy PM

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has requested putting an end to the situation that fishing vessels are operating at sea but they are unmanageable.

At a teleconference between the national steering committee for combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and ministries and localities on October 25, Ha, who is also chairman of the steering committee, set a clear deadline - by November 20, all "three Nos" vessels that lack proper registration, fishing licenses or inspection certifications must be removed.

Based on local databases identifying these so-called "ghost ships", the navy, coast guard, border guard, and fishery surveillance forces are to launch a comprehensive inspection campaign to thoroughly remove them, he said.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), in coordination with ministries, agencies and local authorities, were requested to adopt technical solutions to handle violations related to vessel monitoring system (VMS). Penalties for non-compliance must be severe, including confiscation of goods, fishing vessels, or even licenses of captains who flout the rules. Seasonal adjustments to fishing management regulations are also under consideration to improve regulatory effectiveness.

The provincial/municipal Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development must work with register agencies to establish stringent standards for the inspection and registration of fishing vessels. Information on crew members aboard fishing vessels must be integrated with the National Population Database to ensure comprehensive oversight.

The MARD was assigned to collaborate with local authorities to draft regulations that clarify the responsibilities of organisations, individuals, and businesses involved in the sale and export of seafood products of unclear origin, thereby enforcing IUU fishing rules more rigorously.

Moreover, mechanisms to encourage compliance with IUU standards among fishermen should be put in place, he said. The ministry was also tasked with proposing upgrades to key fishing ports to enhance the management capacity of fishing vessels and catch volume, particularly for seafood processed for export.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien reported significant progress in combating IUU fishing following four inspection rounds by the European Commission (EC). Notable achievements include strengthening the legal framework, installing the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), establishing the National Fisheries Database (VNFishbase), and regulating seafood imports under the Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA). Law enforcement and penalties for IUU violations have also been intensified.

The EC has recognised Vietnam’s strong political commitment, particularly the decisive guidance and oversight provided by the Government, he said.

With these robust measures in place, Vietnam is poised to make significant strides in combating illegal fishing, safeguarding its marine ecosystem, and upholding international standards./.

Countries obliged to enforce judgments of International Court of Justice: ambassador

All countries need to respect and fulfill obligations in accordance with international law, including the obligation to enforce decisions and judgments of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with goodwill, said Ambassador Nguyen Minh Vu, Assistant to the Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs.

He made the remarks while leading a Vietnamese delegation to join in a discussion held by the United Nations General Assembly on October 24 to look into the ICJ report for 2023 - 2024.

Vu affirmed that Vietnam supports the ICJ’s essential role in promoting peace, stability, and justice, and it is ready to cooperate with other countries and the ICJ to promote the rule of law at all levels.

With regard to the settlement of disputes, the ambassador said the role of the ICJ is widely recognised. With this role, the ICJ has been exerting efforts to promote the peaceful settlement of disputes and help maintain friendly relations among countries.

Aside from hearing and resolving international disputes, the function of giving advice is also important to clarifying controversial legal issues, he added.

Amid the need for immediate and more ambitious actions to cope with climate change, Vietnam has joined others in the core group to propose the UN General Assembly request the ICJ to give advice about countries’ obligations related to climate change, Vu said, noting that this advice can help clarify legal aspects of climate change and provide a prerequisite for the substantive and fruitful implementation of the commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

At the discussion, representatives of other countries highlighted the ICJ’s importance in maintaining international peace and security, and enhancing the adherence to, development, and enforcement of international law.

They considered the increasing number of cases handled by the ICJ as a demonstration of countries’ trust in this court./.

Exhibition on Hoang Sa, Truong Sa held in Dak Lak

A mobile exhibition titled “Vietnam’s Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly): Historical and legal evidence” was opened at Le Loi Primary School in Krong Buk district, the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak on October 25.

The exhibition running until October 27 showcases many documents, artifacts, publications and nearly 100 maps, which have been collected and published by domestic and international researchers and scholars.

These include documents in Han-Nom (ancient ideographic vernacular script of the Vietnamese language), Vietnamese and French issued by the Vietnamese feudal court and the French government in Indochina from the 17th to the early 20th century, affirming the process of establishing, exercising and protecting Vietnam's sovereignty over the two island districts of Hoang Sa and Truong Sa.

Especially, the exhibition introduces royal records of the Nguyen Dynasty (which began with the reign of King Gia Long, and ended with the reign of King Bao Dai) that directly dealt with the exploitation, management, establishment and enforcement of Vietnam’s sovereignty over the two island districts.

The documents show that the Vietnamese state from the feudal period to the present has explored, established, exercised and protected national sovereignty over the two island districts of Hoang Sa and Truong Sa and many other waters and islands belonging to Vietnam's territory. It is a continuous, long-term, peaceful process, recorded in many historical sources of Vietnam and other countries, especially documents and maps compiled and published since the 16th century in Vietnam and many countries around the world.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the exhibition, Deputy Director of Dak Lak provincial Department of Information and Communications Nguyen Quoc Hiep said that since 2019, the department has coordinated with districts in the province to held seven mobile exhibitions on Truong Sa and Hoang Sa.

Such exhibitions attracted many officials, Party members and people in the province, he said./.

Female soldiers’ contributions to UN peacekeeping missions spotlighted

An exchange programme was held in Hanoi on October 25 by the Ministry of Defence’s Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), along with the opening of a photo exhibition themed “Vietnamese female military personnel in United Nations peacekeeping operations”.

The programme served as a forum for sharing experiences and exploring new methods to enhance understanding of the contributions of female military personnel to UN peacekeeping operations, thus increasing and promoting their meaningful participation in these activities.

Additionally, it reaffirmed Vietnam's consistent commitment to the UN Security Council’s Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, as well as its response to the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security.

Nearly 100 photos on display at the exhibition have been taken by Vietnamese military personnel who have directly participated in UN peacekeeping missions over the past more than a decade, giving the public an insight into their challenging and meaningful journeys in distant missions, and serving as vivid evidence of the courage, resilience, and humanitarian spirit of Vietnamese female soldiers.

The photos reflect the desire for peace of the Vietnamese nation which endured fierce wars and understands the immense value of peace. This aspiration is carried by Vietnamese female soldiers as they implement their missions in conflict areas, contributing to the building of sustainable peace, emphasised Colonel Mac Duc Trong, deputy head of the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

The exhibition remains open to visitors until the end of November 8 at the Vietnamese Women's Museum on Ly Thuong Kiet street, Hoan Kiem district.

To date, the Ministry of Defence has sent 147 servicewomen to UN peacekeeping missions./.

VNA launches Golden Moment photo contest

The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) in collaboration with the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group launched the seventh press photo contest titled “Khoanh khac vang” (Golden Moment) on October 24 to honour excellent photographers and their press works that capture impressive moments of the country’s development.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, VNA General Director Vu Viet Trang expressed her hope that the contest will continue to be a playground that attracts the participation of many journalists and photographers, contributing to the development of the press photography and improvement of the efficiency of the information and popularisation work in the new period.

Through the six previous editions, it gathered and spread the values of diverse quality photographic works, demonstrating the vibrant landscape of the press photography that has developed and better integrated into the global photography, she said.

Entries to this year event should reflect all aspects of life, from politics, diplomacy, economy, and education to technology and environment, showcasing unique and humanitarian perspectives and spotlighting a sense of responsibility towards the country and community.

They must be taken from August 15, 2023, and submitted to the organising board at www.khoanhkhacvang.vn before November 30, 2024.

The award winners will be honoured at a ceremony scheduled in December, with a first prize worth 20 million VND (787 USD), two second prizes of 15 million VND each, three third prizes of 10 million each, and five consolidation prizes of 5 million VND each./.

Vietnam working to improve efficiency of law implementation on human rights: Expert

After more than 35 years of renewal, the Vietnamese State has established a legal system to regulate social relationships, with a focus on building relatively comprehensive laws on human rights which align with the country's development realities and gradually become compatible with international regulations on human rights, according to an expert.

Speaking at a meeting on human rights work on October 24, Assoc. Prof., Dr. Tuong Duy Kien, Director of the Institute for Human Rights under the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, said that in its 13th tenure, the National Assembly adopted the 2013 Constitution, which is considered a pinnacle in constitutional activities for the protection of human rights. To concretise the constitutional principles, during the 2016–2021 term alone, the legislature and its Standing Committee enacted 72 laws, two ordinances, and numerous resolutions containing relevant legal provisions.

Among these, there are laws that play significant roles in the legal system, including new laws and policies that are introduced for the first time, have a substantial and comprehensive impact on socio-economic life, and respond to practical demands in a timely way.

However, alongside the results, the legal system, particularly those regarding human rights, still shows various limitations, he said, noting the 13th National Party Congress pointed out that the legal system has some provisions that are not consistent and do not meet practical requirements in a timely fashion. Compliance with the law is generally not strict; discipline and rule of law often overlooked, violations not addressed promptly, and sanctions not sufficiently deterrent. Administrative and judicial reforms have not fully met the demands of national development.

According to the expert, no matter how comprehensive the Constitution and laws may be, if they are not strictly enforced, the Party and State's sound policies and guidelines on human rights will not come into reality.

Therefore, upholding the rule of law and strengthening legal discipline in implementing the Constitution and laws on human rights is an urgent requirement at present, Kien said, stressing the need to shift the strategic directive focus from prioritising the building and perfection of laws to improving and organising the enforcement of laws, ensuring a seamless and close connection between law-making and law implementation.

Accordingly, the competent authorities need to regularly review legal documents to identify and eliminate those that conflict with the provisions on human rights outlined in the Constitution and laws, while enhancing efforts in communications, dissemination, and education of laws concerning human rights, he stated.

The orientation towards 2030, with a vision for 2045, should concentrate on building and perfecting laws that ensure the implementation of civil and political rights, as well as economic, social, and cultural rights, including the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and the poor.

In addition, it is essential to strengthen the organisation and apparatus for law implementation, clearly define the powers and responsibilities of state agencies in protecting human rights, enhance the role of lawyers and develop a comprehensive range of legal services to improve citizens' access to justice and legal information regarding human rights, and increase the effectiveness of state management in international cooperation on legal and judicial matters, added the expert./.

First Vietnamese intern group welcomed in Germany’s Leipzig city

Authorities of Leipzig, the most populous city in the German state of Saxony, on October 24 welcomed 32 Vietnamese interns to the city to receive vocational training and work at St. Georg Hospital, Leipzig Public Transport Company (LVG), and other local facilities.

This marks the first time Vietnam has dispatched apprentices to Germany to train as train and bus drivers, addressing critical workforce shortages in these sectors.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh and many local officials.

Under this pilot scheme, 14 apprentices will train with Leipzig's LVG, and another 14 will undergo training at St. Georg Hospital. This project stems from economic cooperation fostered by a business delegation from Leipzig to Vietnam earlier this year.

Deputy Mayor Bonew highlighted the enduring relationship between Leipzig and Vietnam, particularly noting the sister city partnership with Ho Chi Minh City. He attributed the arrival of the Vietnamese trainees to numerous visits and discussions between the two sides.

Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Schülke lauded the significant contributions by Vietnamese workers to Leipzig’s economy, noting that over 30 apprentices have commenced vocational training in the city this year. This partnership not only reinforces the friendship between Germany and Vietnam but also strengthens Leipzig’s economy over the long term through the inclusion of dynamic and skilled young apprentices.

Ambassador Minh expressed pride in the positive reception of Vietnamese workers, emphasising the importance of professions such as train maintenance and driving, and nursing, which are crucial to both Vietnam and Germany. He encouraged the trainees to excel in their training and careers, assuring them of the embassy’s support in achieving their goals.

In addition to transport and health care, Vietnamese apprentices in Leipzig are receiving training in fields such as culinary arts, hospitality, and nursing./.

Ca Mau strives to do away with temporary, dilapidated houses

The southernmost province of Ca Mau is striving to complete the construction of and repair for nearly 4,000 temporary and dilapidated houses for people who rendered service to the nation, poor and near poor households, and ethnic minority families across the locality.

As much as 181.2 billion VND (7.17 million USD) is needed for the work, which will be mobilised from the local budget, the fund for the poor, the national target programme on socio-economic development in ethnic minority-inhabited and mountainous areas, and concessional loans from the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies, among others.

Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Minh Luan said that the local administration will enhance inspections and oversight over the construction as well as the quality of the newly-built or repaired houses, preventing losses and other negative phenomena during the work.

Ca Mau has carried out various measures to promote sustainable poverty alleviation, with the provincial Fatherland Front Committee playing an important role in pooling public strength to provide housing support for the needy across the province.

So far this year, 746 houses have been built for poor and near-poor households, or 153% of the set plan.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh called for the launch of a concentrated drive lasting 450 days and nights to eradicate temporary and dilapidated housing nationwide by the end of 2025.

He outlined a plan to eliminate over 153,000 sub-standard homes for poor and near-poor households, saying that a campaign is underway in celebration of upcoming national milestones, including the 14th National Party Congress, the 80th anniversary of National Day, and the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification.

According to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, the total cost for the effort is estimated at over 6.5 trillion VND, with 50 million VND per household for new construction and 25 million VND for repairs./.

Vietnamese university granted int'l certificate of educational facility quality standards

The Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) handed over a certificate to the National Economics University (NEU) and 15 training programmes of the university for meeting its educational institution quality standards, at a ceremony in Hanoi on October 24.

NEU is one of the first universities in Vietnam to complete FIBAA’s quality accreditation process, meeting and exceeding 100% of the required standards, and also to complete the foundation's quality accreditation process with 100% of criteria meeting and exceeding standards.

The recognition has affirmed the success of the university in ensuring and improving the quality of education, continuing to increase student benefits such as credit recognition and conversion, registration for higher education at leading prestigious universities in the world, as well as job opportunities in developed countries.

FIBAA General Director Diane Freiberger commended NEU’s continuous efforts to develop advanced quality assurance tools that exemplify the institution.

Among the 54 evaluation criteria, NEU achieved the highest results, she said, adding that with this certification, the university becomes an outstanding higher education institution.

Up to now, Vietnam has had 11 higher education institutions recognised as meeting quality standards by international educational quality accreditation organisations.

FIBAA is a quality assurance organisation of the Swiss government headquartered in Germany and Switzerland, carrying out accreditation, evaluation, and development of organisations and education programs around the world in the fields of social and humanities, law, management and economics. It is also a member of the European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ENQA), the European Higher Education Quality Assurance Register (EQAR), the European University Association (EUA), Central and Eastern European Network of Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (CEENQA) and International Network of Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE)./.

Authority gives guidelines to foil activities against national solidarity

By using the good to suppress the bad, promoting construction as a prevention measure and using positive information to overwhelm the negative, Vietnam can foil activities aimed at dividing the great national solidarity bloc and inciting "secession" and "autonomy" in ethnic minority-inhabited areas that are being accelerated by hostile and reactionary forces, stated Major General Hau Van Ly, Deputy Director of the Domestic Security Department under the Ministry of Public Security.

Speaking at a press conference on October 24, Ly said that over the years, propaganda activities to harm the national solidarity and incite secession and autonomy have been carried out regularly and continuously by hostile and reactionary forces.

The common objectives of these activities are not only driving a wedge and stirring disunity among ethnic minority groups, and between ethnic minorities and the Government, but also causing confusion among part of the ethnic minority groups to inject new "evil cults" and religions to them, disrupting political and social life, and destabilising local security and order.

At the same time, the activities also aim to cause difficulties for the implementation of policies and orientations on socio-economic development, and security and defence in the areas, harming the effectiveness of state management measures of local authorities, said Ly.

The official underlined the need for authorised agencies and as well as local administrations to focus on popularising the socio-economic development achievements and positive changes in rural and ethnic minority-inhabited areas, along with policies and law regarding socio-economic development and ethnic minority affairs, ensuring that ethnic minority communities understand the great attention, priority, and favourable conditions that the Party and State have given to narrowing down development gap, promoting equality and national and religious solidarity, and reinforcing the communities’ confidence in the Party, State, and local administrations.

Ly also highlighted the need to honour outstanding models and good examples set by those from ethnic minority groups in the movement to protect the national security and socio-economic development.

At the same time, it is necessary to expose the nature, plots, methods, and tricks of reactionary individuals and organisations targeting ethnic minority groups, as well as evil and illegal organisations under the cover of religions in ethnic minority areas, preventing ethnic communities from being misled, deceived, or enticed to participate in these organisations, said Ly, stressing the need to refute the arguments that divide national unity and incite secession and autonomy by hostile and reactionary forces./.

Exhibitions on Hoang Sa, Truong Sa held in Nam Dinh, Ca Mau

A digital exhibition entitled “Vietnam’s Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa (Spratly): Historical and legal evidence”, and a book introduction event are being organised at Hai Xuan high school in Hai Hau district in the northern province of Nam Dinh on October 24 – 25.

The events are jointly held by the provincial Department of Information and Communications, the provincial Border Guard Command, the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and the People’s Committee of Hai Hau district.

The exhibition focuses on five main themes: ancient documents, ancient maps of Vietnam, Hoang Sa and Truong Sa on Western maps, Hoang Sa and Truong Sa on Chinese and Western maps; Hoang Sa and Truong Sa during the French colonial period and before 1975; and images of Vietnam's sea and islands from 1975 to present.

It contributes to arousing love and passion for reading as well as fostering love for the homeland; as well as enhancing the spirit and responsibility in firmly safeguarding the sovereignty of the homeland's sea and islands among young people.

The organisers took this occasion to disseminate the work of managing and protecting the sovereignty of the sea, maintaining security and order to serve socio-economic development in coastal areas of Nam Dinh province; and raising public awareness of combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

On the same days, a similar exhibition is also taking in the southernmost province of Ca Mau, featuring 40 images on Hoang Sa and Truong Sa, and 21 images of sovereignty rocks provided by the Ministry of Information and Communications.

A documentary film on efforts of navy officers and soldiers on islands and outposts to protect the sovereignty of the country's sea and islands, and the lives of people, fishermen on the islands is screened in the framework of the exhibition.

Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism Tieu Minh Tien said the event is of great significance to promoting solidarity, and enhancing trust and sense of responsibility of people at home and abroad, especially young people in protecting and affirming the sovereignty of the Fatherland's sea and islands./.

Hanoi: 1,360-kg bomb relocated

A war-time bomb weighing 1,362 kg was lifted up and moved to a safe location on October 24, according to the Hanoi Capital Military High Command.

The 210-cm-long M-118 bomb was discovered near Long Bien bridge in Hanoi on October 21 by a local resident.

Immediately upon receiving the information, the Military Command of Long Bien district took measures to move the bomb closer to the bank. They also deployed local militia forces from Ngoc Lam and Bo De wards to guard and ensure the safety of the site.

Given the high-risk assessment of the situation, the district command reported the finding to higher authorities, implemented safety measures, and organised the relocation as planned.

Earlier on October 10, another bomb of the same type was also relocated and safely handled by the command./.

VNA/VNN/VNS/VOV