The Party Central Committee's Inspection Commission has given a warning to the Party Affairs Committee of the Quang Ninh provincial People's Committee in the 2011-2016 and 2016-2021 tenures and several officials and former officials of the province as a disciplinary measure, at its 32nd meeting in Hanoi.

The commission said the Party Affairs Committee of the provincial People's Committee in the 2011-2016 and 2016-2021 tenures had violated the democratic centralism principles and working regulations. They showed a lack of responsibility and loose leadership, leading to the provincial People's Committee and various collectives and individuals breaching the Party’s regulations and State laws on managing and implementing projects/contracts by the Advanced International JSC (AIC) and its affiliates, and the FLC Group JSC.

These violations have resulted in very serious consequences, substantial financial losses and a significant risk of further losses and wastage of State funds and assets, causing negative public concern and hurting the reputation of the local Party organisation and authorities.

The standing board of the provincial Party Committee in the 2015-2020 tenure, the Party Delegation of the provincial People's Council in the 2016-2021 tenure, and other Party organisations and members were also responsible for the above violations.

The meeting, which took place on September 19 and 20, also issued a reprimand to the Party Delegation of the provincial People's Council in the 2016-2021 tenure, along with a number of officials.

The commission asked the Politburo and the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat consider and enforce disciplinary actions against the standing board of the provincial Party Committee in the 2015-2020 tenure, and a number of officials.

The standing board of the current provincial Party Committee was required to issue disciplinary measures against 14 Party organisations and 10 Party members involved, as concluded by the commission.

At the meeting, the commission also looked into a complaint against a Party organisation and two Party members, considered disciplinary appeals in four cases and decided on other important issues.

Vietnam, US hold annual defence policy dialogue

Deputy Minister of National Defence Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien and US Assistant Secretary of Defence Dr Ely Ratner co-chaired the annual Vietnam – US Defence Policy Dialogue in Washington, D.C on September 19 (local time).

Commending positive defence cooperation between the two countries in the past year, Chien and Ratner said post-war recovery cooperation has continued to be a pillar and a bright spot in the bilateral relations, helping build trust and foster mutual understanding between the two sides.

Chien took this occasion to thank the US for increasing its non-refundable aid from 183 million USD to 300 million USD for the project to clean up dioxin-contaminated soil at the Bien Hoa Air Base, describing it an important resource to complete the first phase of the project.

Vietnam will continue creating favourable conditions for the search for US soldiers missing in action (MIA) as the two sides are celebrating the 50th founding anniversary of the Vietnam Office for Seeking Missing Persons, and 35 years of the implementation of the joint MIA activities, Chien said.

At the event, the two sides laid stress on the important role of Vietnam and the US in the cooperation framework of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM+), and agreed to continue effective defence collaboration in the fields of delegation exchange at all levels, cyber security, defence industry and UN peacekeeping activities, as well as support each other at regional and multilateral forums, especially ADMM+, making contributions to regional and global peace, stability and development.

As Vietnam and the US will continue working together to handle post-war consequences, Chien suggested both sides to meticulously study the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in the field based on the joint statement on the upgrade of the bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, cooperation and sustainable development.

Chien asked the US to give further aid to Vietnam to speed up the dioxin detoxification project at the Bien Hoa Air Base, which needs an additional 150-200 million USD.

Ratner said he will discuss the issue with the US Congress to seek further support for the project.

Discussing international issues of mutual concerns, Chien and Ratner spoke highly of the role and position of ASEAN as well as ASEAN-led mechanisms, and emphasised the importance of ensuring freedom, security and safety of navigation and overflight in the East Sea.

Vietnam is persistent with its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, multilateralisation and diversification, and has pursued a “Four Nos” defence policy, Chien said, adding Vietnam supports the settlement of disputes in the East Sea via peaceful means and in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Vietnam, Canada hold second defence policy dialogue

The second defence policy dialogue between Vietnam and Canada took place in Ottawa on September 21 under the chair of Vietnamese Deputy Minister of National Defence Sen. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien and his Canadian counterpart Bill Matthews.

The two officials highly valued the recent defence cooperation results in such fields as high-level mutual visits, dialogue - consultation, personnel training, UN peacekeeping operations, maritime security, defence industry, border management, migration, and cooperation at regional and international forums, matching the areas promoted by the two countries’ leaders and defence ministries under the 2019 memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation and the defence cooperation plan for 2021-2023.

They agreed to continue promoting defence cooperation in line with the signed documents and agreements with a focus on holding delegation exchanges; maintaining the effectiveness of existing dialogue and consultation mechanisms; further improving cooperation in training human resources, especially for law enforcement forces at sea, and border security; sharing strategic information; enhancing cooperation in UN peacekeeping operations; and supporting each other at regional and international security forums to contribute to peace, stability, and development in the regions and the world.

Regarding the regional and global situations, both sides looked into issues of shared concern.

Canada highly valued the role and stature of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Vietnam, voiced support for the bloc’s centrality in ASEAN-led mechanisms, and affirmed the importance of guaranteeing freedom, security, and safety of navigation and overflight in the East Sea.

Chien emphasised Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, diversification and mulitlateralisation of external relations; maintenance of the “four nos” principle; and persistence in peacefully settling all East Sea-related differences on the basis of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

On this occasion, he invited Matthews, other leaders of the Canadian Department of National Defence, and defence businesses of the North American country to visit Vietnam and attend the Vietnam International Defence Expo 2024.

Concluding the dialogue, the two sides signed an MoU on cooperation in UN peacekeeping operations and the cooperation plan for 2024-2026.

On September 20, Chief of the Defence Staff of Canada Gen. Wayne Donald Eyre received the Vietnamese delegation. He affirmed Canada attaches importance to Vietnam in its foreign policy towards the region and that in his position, he will continue providing conditions for enhancing bilateral defence ties, with priority given to personnel training and UN peacekeeping operations.

Deputy Minister Chien said in its foreign policy, Vietnam always highly values the role of Canada, adding defence cooperation has been carried out in a practical manner and in conformity with the signed documents and agreements.

There remains much room for bilateral defence cooperation to grow, he opined, asking leaders of the Department of National Defence and the Defence Staff of Canada to continue supporting the cooperation, especially in the organisation of high-level delegation exchanges, meetings, and consultation - dialogue mechanisms; improvement of the capacity of law enforcement forces at sea; personnel training; UN peacekeeping operations; defence industry; settlement of war consequences; and reinforcement of ties with ASEAN via multilateral cooperation mechanisms for the sake of regional and global peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

Vietnam emphasises importance of UNCLOS in marine environmental protection

Le Duc Hanh, Director General of the Department of International Law and Treaties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on September 20 stressed that the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982) creates a legal framework to regulate all activities at sea, including marine environmental protection.

Presenting Vietnam’s views on the request for advisory opinion of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) on states' obligations to respond to climate change, Hanh noted that the tribunal has the authority to give advice regarding greenhouse gas emissions that cause marine pollution.

Countries have the obligation to take necessary measures towards their state agencies, groups, and businesses in order to minimise and control greenhouse gas emissions, she continued.

The official pointed out that resources-limited countries are the most vulnerable to climate change impact, and they need green technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and cope with climate change.

She, therefore, suggested developed countries create more favourable conditions for businesses and groups to transfer green technologies to resources-limited and climate-vulnerable countries.  

At the UN General Assembly, Vietnam is one of the first five members of the core group building the Resolution Requesting International Court of Justice Provide Advisory Opinion on States’ Obligations Concerning Climate Change.

Vietnam joins first “International TECHFEST in Australia”

The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and Australia’s Monash University on September 20 organised the first “International TECHFEST in Australia”, aiming to attract international resources to develop Vietnam’s innovative startup ecosystem.

The event saw the participation of Vietnamese and Australian officials and over 100 experts, investors, and investment funds from the two countries.

Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat said that the event is an opportunity to promote the image of Vietnam's open and dynamic creative startup ecosystem. It’s also a bridge connecting businesses and organisations with international resources around the world.

Vietnam calls on overseas Vietnamese, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, technology experts, and foreign startups to come to Vietnam and work with Vietnamese partners to solve local and global challenges, he said, adding Australia is a potential technology and capital market.

The minister said Vietnam’s startup ecosystem in the coming time needs linkages with regional and international systems, particularly those with experiences and resources like Australia’s.

At the event, innovative startups had an opportunity to present to Australian venture capital companies such as Magic Edutech Group PTY LTD, Cyberkid, VSEC, Hana Gold, and Treeotek. Representatives from agencies and organisations exchanged experiences to improve their support to startups.

Vietnamese FM attends preparatory meeting for 2024 future summit, holds bilateral meetings

Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son joined nearly 150 ministers and representatives from UN member countries at a preparatory ministerial meeting for the 2024 Summit of the Future in New York on September 21 (local time).

At the meeting, ministers pointed to major difficulties and challenges currently, especially those related to climate change, environment, food security, energy, water resources as well as the decline in trust and multilateral cooperation.    

They were especially concerned as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been completed by 14%, and believed that the 2024 Summit of the Future is significant in creating new catalysts to promote the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The ministers shared their countries' vision and priorities for the summit, and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening global governance and multilateralism, calling for respect for the basic principles of international law and the UN Charter.

Addressing the event, FM Son stressed the need to listen to the opinions of countries and relevant parties, including the important role of youth in shaping the future world. The decision-making process needs to be led by member states and conducted in an open, transparent and inclusive manner without creating duplication or unnecessary burdens for developing countries, he stated.

The Vietnamese representative said that future agreements need to focus on promoting the SDGs, ensuring fairness, justice and the principle of common but distinct responsibilities. The reform of global multilateral systems, including international financial institutions, must prioritise ensuring the rights and creating more voices for developing countries, he underlined.   

FM Son also highlighted pressing challenges that need to be resolved such as climate change, global health governance, sustainably handling the water-food-energy relationship, as well as ensuring that digital technology and artificial intelligence serve humans.

The 2024 Summit of the Future is scheduled for September 22-23.

On the occasion of his participation at the high-level general debate of the United Nations General Assembly, FM Son had bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Belarus, Estonia, Hungary, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Iraq.

Meeting Belarus’s Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik, FM Son affirmed that Vietnam treasures the friendship and all-round cooperation with Belarus, and thanked the Government and people of Belarus for supporting Vietnam in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. The two FMs agreed to strengthen political consultation mechanisms to promote cooperation and actively prepare for delegation exchange activities, especially at the high level in the coming time.

FM Son underlined the need for Vietnam and Belarus to work closely together to better exploit advantages and potential of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Aleinik affirmed that Belarus attaches great importance to Vietnam and hopes that the two sides will deploy comprehensive and effective measures to beef up trade partnership and open the market for each other’s strong products, while strengthen cooperation in promising areas such as education and training, labour and agriculture.

In another meeting, Son and Hungarian FM Peter Szijjarto highly valued the traditional friendship and growing cooperation between the two countries in many areas, especially economy and trade, in the context that the two countries are celebrating the fifth anniversary of their comprehensive partnership.

FM Son thanked Hungary for actively supporting Vietnam in the process of negotiating and signing the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and being the first EU member state to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Association (EVIPA).

Szijjarto said that Hungary always highly values the role of the Vietnamese community in Hungary and supports the EC’s removal of the “yellow card” against Vietnamese seafood exports.

The two sides concurred to coordinate closely to prepare for delegation exchanges, especially at the high level in the time to come, while strengthening collaboration and mutual support at multilateral forums. They also discussed a number of international and regional issues of shared concern.

At the meeting between FM Son and Estonian FM Margus Tsahkna, the two sides affirmed the importance that they attach to the Vietnam-Estonia traditional relations and shared delight at the progress in bilateral ties over the years.

FM Son thanked Estonia for supporting Vietnam in negotiating for the EVFTA and signing the EVIPA. He proposed that Estonia support the removal of the EC’s “yellow card” against Vietnamese seafood exports. Tsahkna said he hopes the two sides promote cooperation in digital technology, green transition, and transport.

Meeting Iraqi Deputy PM and FM Fuad Mohamed Hussein, FM Son suggested that the two sides increase cooperation in promising areas such as agriculture, import-export and Halal market development.
         
The Iraqi official lauded the socio-economic achievements that Vietnam has gained over the past decades.

The two sides agreed to speed up procedures for the re-opening of the Iraqi embassy in Hanoi, and concurred to organise the next meeting of the Joint Committee on bilateral cooperation at an early date to promote the bilateral ties in politics, diplomacy and economy.

Deputy PM hosts new RoK Ambassador

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang hosted a reception on September 21 for the new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (RoK), Choi Youngsam, who has just begun his term in Vietnam.

Noting that the RoK is one of the biggest foreign investors in Vietnam, Deputy PM Quang affirmed that the Vietnamese Government will continue with drastic efforts to improve the business and investment environment for foreign investors, including those from the RoK, to do business successfully in the country.

He proposed that the two countries maintain regular visits and contact at all levels so as to continuously strengthen relations between their leaders, creating the foundation for promoting cooperation across all fields.

The deputy PM also welcomed the establishment of a joint working group on climate change, saying that he believes the two sides, with resolve and efforts, will realise targets set in the Vietnam-RoK Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Climate Change.

For his part, Ambassador Choi Youngsam affirmed that the RoK will coordinate closely with Vietnam to realise the agreements reached during the official visit to Vietnam in June this year by RoK President Yoon Suk Yeol.

He pledged to do his utmost to promote the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, particularly in the fields of economy, trade and investment, and new areas such as essential minerals, innovation and technology, climate change and new energy.

Deputy PM receives leader of Japan's MOECO company

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha hosted a reception in Hanoi on September 21 for President and CEO of Mitsui Oil Exploration Co., Ltd. (MOECO) Hidenori Harada.

Ha told the guest that Vietnam always appreciates and welcomes cooperation projects between Japanese and Vietnamese businesses.

Amidst fluctuations of the world economy, Vietnam wants to maintain and develop collaboration and investment ties with Japanese businesses, he said.

Regarding Block B - O Mon gas project chain being implemented by MOECO and partners, the Deputy PM stated that policies of the Vietnamese State will ensure that the project operates throughout its life cycle, in a stable and long-term manner, and benefits investors so that the project chain is truly a bright spot in economic cooperation between Japan and Vietnam.

Updating the host on the implementation of the project chain, Harada Hidenori said that MOECO is working with partners to prepare investment procedures with the active support of the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade.

He thanked and appreciated the important direction of the Vietnamese Government to solve difficulties and obstacles for the project.

Elevation of relations with Vietnam helps promote US partnership with ASEAN: Diplomat

The Vietnam visit by President Joe Biden is an historic event and the upgrading of the Vietnam-US relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership is very meaningful, stated US Ambassador to ASEAN Yohannes Abraham.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, the US diplomat said that the elevation of the US-Vietnam relationship to the highest level of Vietnam's diplomatic relationship shows the already strong, growing and enduring ties between the US and Vietnam.

This is the foundation for a sustainable and win-win partnership with shared opportunities and joint efforts in coping with global challenges in the future, he said.

Regarding the potential of cooperation between the US and Vietnam in the coming time, the ambassador said that leaders of the two sides have outlined a broad range of fields where the two countries are going to work together even more closely on issues that matter most to their future, especially the economy.

The US is currently the number-one export market of Vietnam, while Vietnam is the eighth biggest trade partner of the US, he noted.

The upgrade of the US-Vietnam relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership makes the bilateral partnership deeper and more comprehensive across various fields of science, technology, innovation, digital economy, semiconductors – all places where the two sides can enhance economic growth together and promote the security of our supply chains, he stated, adding it also helps foster the US-ASEAN relations.

The diplomat said that during meetings with Vietnamese leaders, President Biden reaffirmed commitments to ASEAN centrality and pledged to cooperate more closely with the association at multilateral forums such as the East Asia Summit (EAS), the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and other ASEAN-led mechanisms.

Therefore, by strengthening its relationship with Vietnam, the US adds value to its strengthening of relationship with ASEAN as a whole, stated the ambassador.

“Whenever we strengthen our relationship with one of the ASEAN member states, it only enhances our ability to work with and through ASEAN as a whole. And I think you saw that in the leader's statements, and you saw a reaffirmation in the statement between our two leaders of ASEAN centrality and the US commitment to ASEAN,” he said.

Ambassador Abraham also highlighted the cooperation potential between the US and ASEAN, noting that last year, the two sides also elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

In terms of economy, the US is currently the leading investor of ASEAN with over 6,000 US companies operating across ASEAN member states, generating a lot of economic activity, including hundreds of thousands of jobs.

The diplomat said that the US Mission to ASEAN is focusing on finding ways to strengthen those already strong ties on the economic front and on all fronts.

The US has supported the association in developing the ASEAN Single Window to lower customs barriers between ASEAN member states to make it easier for businesses that are doing business across ASEAN.

“It's good for ASEAN economic integration, it's good for economic growth in the region, and it saved traders doing business across ASEAN over 4.4 billion USD since the inception of the programme,” stated Abraham.

He said that the US is working to support the establishment of an ASEAN power grid, as an important component of inclusive and sustainable economic growth is access to reliable and clean energy.

FM meets senior officials of Laos, Salomon Islands, Uganda, EU

Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos Saleumxay Kommasith, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade of the Salomon Islands Jeremiah Manele, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Uganda Henry Oryem Okello, and Vice President of the European Commission for Interinstitutional Relations Maros Sefcovic in New York on September 20.

The meetings took place on the occasion of their attendance in the high-level general debate of the United Nations General Assembly.

Talking to Kommasith, Son applauded the sound development of the two countries’ relations, especially high-level mutual visits and meetings, and the promotion of key cooperation projects in the recent past.

The Lao official spoke highly of the success of the delegation exchanges between the countries’ Party and State leaders, especially the meeting among the leaders of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, and the Cambodian People’s Party in Hanoi on September 6.

The two sides agreed to coordinate closely to prepare for high-level activities between the Vietnamese and Lao Parties and Governments, coming events of inter-sectoral cooperation mechanisms, and some cooperation projects. The countries will also keep close coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums.

Minister Son affirmed Vietnam’s support for and efforts to help Laos fulfill its chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2024.

At the meeting with Manele, Son stressed that Vietnam always attaches importance to developing cooperation with Pacific island countries, particularly the Salomon Islands.

Both sides agreed to consider the establishment of cooperation mechanisms; sign documents and agreements in the areas the countries are strong at such as trade - investment, fisheries, agriculture, tourism, and climate change response to serve as stepping stones for cooperation; and enhance collaboration and mutual support at multilateral forums.

Receiving Okello, Son highly valued the visit to Vietnam by Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni last November, and asked the two countries to press on with implementing the trip’s outcomes to substantively develop multifaceted cooperation.

Okello emphasised that his country admires Vietnam’s socio-economic development achievements and wishes the two sides will boost discussion to expand ties in agriculture and telecommunications infrastructure.

The two officials agreed that their countries will strengthen cooperation and mutual support at multilateral forums, including the UN, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77 (G77).

Meeting with Sefcovic, Son noted with satisfaction the increasingly extensive and substantive strides in the Vietnam - EU relations, and affirmed that the EU is one of the leading partners of Vietnam, calling on both sides to maintain and bring into play cooperation and dialogue mechanisms.

The Vietnamese minister also appealed to the European Council to raise its voice to persuade the EU to soon remove the “yellow card” warning over illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing for fishery exports of the Southeast Asian nation.

Sefcovic said he attaches importance to the EU - Vietnam cooperation and also shared the view on Son’s proposals.

Both officials also touched upon measures for realising climate change response commitments and the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) between Vietnam and the G7 countries.

At the meetings, Minister Son affirmed Vietnam and ASEAN’s common stance on peacefully settling disputes on the basis of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and guaranteeing the safety and security of navigation and overflight in the East Sea.

Vietnam promotes right to immunisation

Vietnam’s permanent delegation in Geneva on September 20 organised an international seminar on promoting the right to immunisation, and delivered a joint statement co-sponsored by many countries on this topic within the framework of the 54th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Vietnam, Brazil and the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) jointly organised the seminar with the participation of representatives from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai, Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the UN, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and other international organisations in Geneva, highlighted Vietnam's policies and achievements in ensuring the right to vaccination, making an important contribution to promoting people's health and socio-economic development.

In addition to the efforts of the government and people, Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai affirmed the importance of support and cooperation of the international community to help Vietnam gain achievements in expanded immunisation, especially the assistance of WHO, GAVI, COVAX - the equitable vaccine distribution programme initiated by WHO for poor countries - and other international partners.

Notably, Vietnam has achieved a COVID-19 vaccination rate of nearly 100%, one of the highest in the world, contributing to effectively controlling the pandemic, protecting people’s lives and maintaining economic growth during the pandemic and boosting post-pandemic recovery, Mai shared.

Representatives from Brazil, GAVI and WHO also stressed the importance of vaccination, and vaccines in reducing health inequalities, improving educational outcomes and the enjoyment of other human rights.

In a general debate on human rights at the UNHRC’s 54th session, the Vietnamese diplomat delivered a joint statement on immunisation, which was co-sponsored by nearly 60 countries from all continents.

The statement emphasised that immunisation is a crucial part of the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, and highlighted the importance of vaccines, vaccine multilateralism and multilateral efforts, the role of the UNHRC to strengthening international solidarity and cooperation to ensure ensure equitable, affordable, timely, and universal vaccine development, manufacturing, procurement, distribution, and vaccination for both routine programmes and health emergencies.

The statement also called on countries and stakeholders to enhance solidarity and collaboration to promote the implementation of the WHO Immunization Agenda 2030, ensuring that everyone, everywhere, at every age fully benefits from vaccines to enjoy the right to the highest attainable standard of health, with priority given to demographic groups most vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases.

Hanoi baby found dead after nanny kidnapping

A two-year-old girl in Hanoi has been found dead in a stream in Hung Yen Province after being kidnapped by her family’s nanny.

According to a report by the Police Department in Hung Yen Province, the 21-month-old girl was taken from her kindergarten in Gia Lam District by the 27-year-old home help, Giap Thi Huyen Trang at 3.30 pm on September 19.

Trang then took the baby to Hung Yen Province on her motorbike. The baby's family was then called by Trang and asked to pay a ransom of VND1.50 billion (USD61,818) to get her back. They had sent VND350 million to Trang.

On the morning of September 20, the baby's body was found in a fishpond owned by Nguyen Van Thanh, 69, in Van Giang District, Hung Yen Province, some 13 kilometres from her school.

Thanh said that he saw a woman carrying the baby on the motorbike on Tuesday afternoon. She asked him the way to the market to buy medicine. And when he came to work at his field nearby, he heard the baby crying.

Trang, who comes from Bac Giang Province, had only worked for the baby's family for over a month before the incident happened.

Police are hunting for Trang.

PM hosts US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hosted US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, on the occasion of his visit to the US to attend the General Debate of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Both expressed their delight at the success of President Joe Biden's Vietnam visit, affirming that it has contributed to raising mutual understanding between the two countries, for the benefit of their people and for peace, stability and development in the region and the world.

PM Chinh thanked and highly valued Kerry’s support in the successful arrangement of the visit and in the establishment of bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.

Discussing measures to quickly realise the important agreements reached during the visit, particularly those related to climate change response, he proposed that the US continue backing Vietnam's efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and implement the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), especially in developing the renewable energy industry.

Kerry said President Biden is deeply impressed and highly valued Vietnam's warm reception during his recent visit. He affirmed that the US appreciates its relationship with Vietnam and supports the country's leadership role in global efforts to respond to climate change.

Taking note of PM Chinh’s proposals regarding enhancing bilateral cooperation in climate change response and energy transition, Kerry said the US will continue strengthening cooperation with and support for developing countries, including Vietnam, to cope with climate change, with a focus on developing clean energy, smart grid systems and sustainable infrastructure.

As a long-standing friend of Vietnam, Kerry expressed his desire to further reinforce cooperation with the country to fulfill commitments made at the 26th United Nations Climate Conference (COP26) and future conferences of parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Four hospitalised by Bac Giang pitbull attack

Four people have been injured after being attacked by their pitbull dog in the northern province of Bac Giang.Head of An Phu Village in Luc Nam District, Nguyen Van Loi, announced on September 20 that the elderly couple, their granddaughter and a domestic worker had been injured by their dog on September 3.

"The dog used to be kept in a cage but it was being chained that day," Loi said. "It suddenly barked loudly broke the chain and ran to attack the man. His wife rushed to drive the dog away but it attacked her. Their granddaughter and a house helper who stood nearby were also attacked before the dog was controlled by some neighbours."

The four were taken to a local hospital but the couple suffered the most serious injuries. The wife had to be transferred to the Vietnam-Germany Hospital and then to the 108 Military Hospital in Hanoi for treatment.

Loi added that the pitbull had been kept by the family for several years and weighed over 40 kilos. It has been kept in a cage for monitoring following the incident.

Many severe pitbull attacks have been reported in Vietnam.

In May this year, an 82-year-old woman in the southern province of Binh Duong was mauled to death by her family’s pitbull dog.

A woman in Thanh Hoa Province and a boy in Binh Phuoc Province also died after being attacked by two pitbull dogs last year.

State Auditor General holds working session with President of Italian Court of Audit

Auditor General of the State Audit Office of Vietnam (SAV) Ngo Van Tuan held a working session with President of the Italian Court of Audit Paulo Carlino in Rome, Italy on September 21.

Tuan wished to promote cooperation between the two agencies in the future through the facilitation of delegation exchanges at all levels, the sharing of professional experience, training activities, and exchange of documents and audit standards.

He hoped that SAV could learn from invaluable experience of the Italian Court of Audit, particularly in four areas of its strength, including environmental auditing, assessment of public policies, pre-audit of government policy agendas before implementation, and the application of information technology and digital transformation in auditing activities.

The Vietnamese official suggested expanding exchanges between high-level and technical-level delegations. He wished that the Italian Court of Audit would send experts to training courses for SAV in Vietnam, and invite SAV staff members to its auditing courses and programmes.

Carlino affirmed that the Italian Court of Audit is ready to share expertise with the SAV in areas of its strength. He also expressed the commitment to enhancing substantial cooperation between the two sides, suggesting that bilateral cooperation be formalised in official documents. He assigned the International Cooperation Bureau of the Italian Court of Audit to coordinate discussions on possibilities for collaboration with the SAV, toward signing a Memorandum of Understanding in the future.

Both sides shared experience in environmental audits with a focus on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Topics included choosing audit themes, the timing of audits, digitalisation efforts, and improving data sources. They also discussed pre-audit activities to serve the making of decisions by the legislature and the government.

On the occasion, Tuan invited Carlino to visit the SAV, especially in 2024 when SAV celebrates its 30th founding anniversary.

NA Secretary General holds working session with Bangladeshi counterpart

Secretary General of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) and Chairman of its Office Bui Van Cuong held a working session with Secretary General of the Parliament of Bangladesh K.M. Abdus Salam in Dhaka on September 21.

Cuong expressed his delight at convening the working session following the successful talks between NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue and Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury. The Vietnamese NA Office and the Parliament Secretariat of Bangladesh also signed the first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation.

Salam spoke highly of the ongoing official visit by NA Chairman Hue, saying that it is the first by the head of Vietnam's legislative body to Bangladesh, marking a new milestone in the relationship between the two legislatures. 

Both officials stressed that the results of the talks and the two recently-signed MoUs will lay an important foundation for the two legislatures in general and the Vietnamese NA Office and the Parliament Secretariat of Bangladesh in particular to launch specific cooperation activities in the future, thus fostering bilateral ties.

Both sides will share information and experience, contributing to improving the capacity of their units and advisory officers to support respective parliaments; as well as facilitate public visits to their parliament museums.

Host and guest also shared experience in digitalising the activities of the two legislatures and their advisory bodies, and holding NA question and answer sessions, political and legal responsibilities of ministers and Government members for realizing NA oversight conclusions.

They highlighted the importance of continuous improvement of the quality and efficiency of parliamentary activities to meet the respective countries' development requirements and the public aspirations. They also shared experience in parliamentary communication.

NA Chairman attends opening ceremony of photo exhibition on Vietnam-Bangladesh ties

National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue joined a ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick off a photo exhibition on the five-decade long Vietnam-Bangladesh diplomatic relations in Dhaka on September 21, as part of his official visit to the South Asian nation.

The exhibition, organised by the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), displayed 20 large-format photographs carefully selected from the VNA’s archives.

They showcase significant and prominent moments in the bilateral relationship, high-level reciprocal visits between Vietnamese and Bangladeshi leaders, and Vietnam's landscape, people, and culture.

Among them, there are those capturing the events of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong receiving visiting Speaker of the Parliament of Bangladesh Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury in Vietnam, and of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina witnessing the signing ceremony of an agreement to establish the Bangladesh-Vietnam Business Council.

The NA leader’s current official visit to Bangladesh takes place in the context of the good development of the Vietnam-Bangladesh friendship and at a time when the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations (1973 - 2023).

Since Vietnam and Bangladesh set up their diplomatic ties on February 11, 1973, their traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation have been continuously developed with political trust enhanced, which laid a firm foundation for the two nations to promote partnership across all fields.

Competency evaluation programme for prospective UN peacekeepers concludes in Hanoi

The Competency Evaluation Programme for Prospective United Nations Peacekeepers (CEPPP), an activity under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts’ Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations (PKO-EWG) Cycle 4, wrapped off in Hanoi on September 21.

With the participation of 18 ADMM-Plus member states, the nine-day event co-chaired by Vietnam and Japan marked the first time Vietnam had hosted a large-scale multilateral activity on UN peacekeeping, affirming its role, position, and contribution to peacekeeping-related cooperation mechanisms in the region and within the ADMM-Plus framework.

During its course, trainees were provided with in-depth theoretical instruction combined with practical skill training serving the operation of the military observer, engineering and medical forces at UN missions.

In his closing speech, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Phung Si Tan, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA), commended efforts and contributions made by participating foreign delegations towards the final success of the programme.

He took the occasion to thank ADMM-Plus member states for their active support for Vietnam’s engagement in peacekeeping activities over the past time, and the Japanese Ministry of Defence for its tight and effective coordination with the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence in hosting the 2023 CEPPP.

Tan expressed his belief that via the ADMM-Plus cooperation mechanism, especially the operation of its Experts’ Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations, Vietnam, Japan, and the remaining members will promote teamwork in peacekeeping capacity improvement, making better contributions to the UN mission in the time to come.

After nearly a decade of implementing its comprehensive plan for participation in UN peacekeeping activities, Vietnam has deployed a total of 786 officers to join peacekeeping missions, both in individual and unit capacities.

President hails Lao support for Vietnam's development

In every step of Vietnam's development, there has always been the support and assistance of the fraternal Lao Party, State and people, said President Vo Van Thuong at a September 21 reception for outgoing Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Sengphet Houngboungnuang.

He said the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in recent times has always been strengthened and developed, achieving practical results in all aspects. The two countries’ agencies and localities have regularly engaged in exchanges and cooperation.
 
Thanks to the effective implementation of bilateral cooperation agreements, economic and trade ties have yielded positive results while collaboration in theoretical research, training, national defence and security has also seen significant progress. Both sides have also offered mutual support in global and regional issues. 

The host leader congratulated the ambassador on fulfilling his assigned tasks, making important contributions to promoting Vietnam-Laos great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation.

He wished that in his new role, the diplomat would continue contributing even more to the friendship and special relationship between Vietnam and Laos.

Houngboungnuang, for his part, congratulated Vietnam on upgrading ties with several countries, including the US, which reflects the country's increasingly prominent international stature and role.

He believed that Vietnam will successfully realise the Resolution adopted by the 13th National Party Congress and achieve its goal of becoming a developed, high-income country by 2045.

The guest thanked the Vietnamese authorities for their support to him to fulfill his mission during the tenure, and pledged that in any future position, he will strive to nurture the bilateral relationship.

HCM City’s elderly facing high blood pressure

The majority of elderly people in HCM City are experiencing high blood pressure along with other non-communicable diseases (NCD), according to a recent health examination conducted by the city health sector.

The examination has revealed that out of the more than 13,700 elderly individuals examined, over 52 per cent were found to have high blood pressure, with over seven per cent being diagnosed for the first time.

It also revealed that 15 per cent of the elderly population had diabetes, while nearly three per cent experienced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma.

The findings have highlighted the importance of regular health check-ups for the elderly population as these conditions can lead to serious complications and even death if left untreated, experts have warned.

The examination also identified 360 individuals with potential signs of cancer, who were referred to specialised hospitals for further diagnosis.

In addition, 420 individuals were found to have varying degrees of depression, while 295 showed signs of anxiety.

Many individuals were also found to have physical weakness and a higher risk of falling.

Based on the results of the examination, the HCM City health sector plans to offer free annual health check-ups to elderly residents aged 60 and above starting from 2024.

The initiative aims to reduce medical costs for the elderly and improve their quality of life.

The estimated budget for this initiative is around VNĐ150 billion (US$6.16 million) per year, with the goal of detecting and managing non-communicable diseases in a timely manner among the elderly population.

HCM City has over four million individuals aged 60 and above, and most of them suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, according to the Department of Health.

Dr. Nguyễn Văn Vĩnh Châu, the department’s deputy director, emphasised the importance of equal access to quality healthcare for all individuals.

The initiative represents a significant step toward addressing non-communicable diseases and promoting better healthcare for the elderly population, he said.

By providing accessible and comprehensive health services, the city aims to improve the quality of life and reduce medical costs for this vulnerable group, he added.

Non-communicable diseases are a global concern, accounting for 41 million deaths annually, or 74 per cent of all deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

These diseases primarily affect low- and middle-income countries, including Việt Nam.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of non-communicable disease deaths, followed by cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.

Modifiable behaviours, such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and alcohol consumption, all contribute to the risk of non-communicable diseases, as stated by WHO.

Detection, screening, treatment, and palliative care are key components of the response to non-communicable diseases, according to WHO. 

Workers' productivity key to socioeconomic growth: experts

The 2023 Việt Nam Socio-Economic Forum started on Tuesday in Hà Nội on a positive note, with delegates actively contributing to a brighter outlook for the country.

Themed "Reinforcing internal capacity, generating drivers for growth and sustainable development", the event gathered more than 400 delegates for physical discussions at the National Conference Hall and connected online with domestic and international academies, universities, speakers, and scientists.

The Economic Committee of the National Assembly, the Party Central Economic Committee, Hồ Chí Minh National Academy of Politics, and Việt Nam Academy of Social Sciences are co-organisers of the forum.

In his opening address, Vương Đình Huệ, Chairman of the National Assembly, pushed for greater inner strength of Việt Nam to counter uncertainty and risks.

"In the first half of the National Assembly's term, Việt Nam has persevered through challenges and achieved many important and comprehensive results," said Huệ.

"However, we are faced with challenges in the economy. The GDP growth rate for H1 2023 is only 3.72 per cent, one of the lowest rates in 12 years. Many main growth drivers are slowing down," Huệ added.

According to Huệ, the pandemic has shown that developing Việt Nam's inner strengths and contributing to growth drivers is crucial and necessary for ensuring continuity, stability, and sustainability.

Huệ urged delegates at the event to address three key problems. First, provide forecasts for the Vietnamese economy in 2023, 2024 and beyond; second, identify facts, threats, and risks in the current socio-economic landscape; and third, find solutions to tackle problems and enhance inner strength, thereby enabling future growth and development.

Nguyễn Xuân Thắng, Director of the Hồ Chí Minh National Academy of Politics, echoed this sentiment.

"Việt Nam's economy has weathered some of the toughest times but still faces significant challenges," said Thắng.

"We need measures to counter these challenges and enable a successful comeback for the economy."

Thắng implored delegates of the forum to devise practical, breakthrough measures to restore the economy's momentum by addressing three challenges: revitalising domestic consumption, rejuvenating the flow of investment capital, and troubleshooting issues hindering businesses.

In the second discussion of the forum, titled "Improving labour productivity, guaranteeing labour productivity in the new context", both foreign and domestic delegates contributed extensively to the debate.

According to Felix Weidencaff from the International Labour Organization (ILO), the long-term decline in labour productivity is a worldwide trend that has created policy challenges.

A shift in global macroeconomics is also to blame, said Weidencaff, specifically factors like inflation, geopolitical crises, and energy prices.

The ILO representative advised Việt Nam to develop and increase jobs to meet the demands of the knowledge economy and the 4.0 industrial revolution. Việt Nam should also address the nature of unemployment and establish an effective labour market information system.

In discussing social policy credit, Nguyễn Đức Hải, Deputy Chairman of the Việt Nam Bank for Social Policies (VBSP), stated that social policy credit has played a significant role in reducing poverty by providing exclusive credit avenues for underprivileged groups.

These funds have aided over 6.4 million households in crossing the poverty threshold, created 6.5 million jobs, and facilitated education access for 3.9 million students.

According to Hải, although the programme has achieved remarkable results, challenges remain. The VBSP has requested the government's assistance for future funding to comprehensively address these issues.

In the roundtable discussion, Nguyễn Lê Hoa, Director of the Department for Productivity Research at the Việt Nam Productivity Institute (VNPI), identified two reasons for Việt Nam's low labour productivity.

Firstly, the country lacks employees with substantial experience and skills; and secondly, while the private sector is significant, most companies are small in size, making it challenging to enhance productivity.

Hoa noted that while government policies, such as revising growth models and fostering innovation in science and technology, have facilitated the development of labour productivity, the execution of such policies has been sluggish due to limited engagement from businesses.

Hoa advocated for better promotion of these policies and emphasised the importance of inter-departmental and inter-ministerial coordination to formulate synchronised policies. This would enable private enterprises to actively contribute to boosting labour productivity.

Jonathan Pincus, an expert from UNDP Việt Nam, remarked that Thailand and Malaysia had previously experienced rapid labour productivity growth, but couldn't maintain it following the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997. Pincus attributed this decline to the countries' outdated development policies that eventually led them into the middle-income trap.

To avert a similar trajectory, Pincus asserted that Việt Nam must succeed in constructing a robust national innovation system. The UNDP expert also encouraged Việt Nam to prioritise post-graduate education, especially in STEM subjects. 

Photo exhibition on trade unions opened in HCM City

The outstanding achievements and activities of workers and trade unions in HCM City over the past five years are depicted through a photo exhibition that opened on Tuesday at the city Labour Cultural Palace.

The exhibition, entitled “HCM City Trade Unions – The faith of labourers”, features 224 photos presenting the work of trade unionists and labourers and their contributions to national industrialisation and modernisation.

The photos also depict the continued efforts of trade unions at different levels to fulfill their role of representing, caring for and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of labourers.

Organised by the HCM City Labour Federation, the exhibition is part of activities to celebrate the 12th Congress of the HCM City Labour Federation which will take place on September 22-24.

The photos are displayed until September 30.

Also on September 19, the Hồ Chí Minh Cultural Space debuted at the Labour Cultural Palace to showcase literary and artistic works and documentary films about President Hồ Chí Minh.

It is expected to create a space for workers and trade unionists in the city to study and follow President Hồ Chí Minh’s thought, morality and lifestyle. 

Book on HCM City history wins Trần Văn Giàu Prize

A book on the history of HCM City compiled by 103-year-old researcher Nguyễn Đình Tư won a prestigious annual history prize named after the revolutionary and philosopher Prof. Trần Văn Giàu.

Gia Định – Sài Gòn – Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh: Dặm Dài Lịch Sử (1698-2020) (Gia Định – Sài Gòn – HCM City: A Mile of History) consists of two volumes. Each volume has around 800 pages with 80 chapters.

The book depicts the history and development of the city in all fields of politics, administrative activities, economics, society, culture, education, health, religion, and sports since the city was established in 1698 to 2020.

Tư said at the awards ceremony in HCM City last Saturday that he spent more than 20 years visiting libraries and archive centres in the city and neighbouring provinces to collect research, documents and news articles on the city.

He hoped the book would be a valuable source for people to find any information related to the city.

Tư has released more than 60 books on the history of the south of Việt Nam. He was awarded a medal for the cause of Vietnamese history given by the Việt Nam Association of Historical Sciences.

The book Gia Định – Sài Gòn – Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh: Dặm Dài Lịch Sử (1698-2020) was published by the HCM City General Publishing House in February to celebrate the 325th anniversary of Sài Gòn - Chợ Lớn - Gia Định - HCM City.

Phan Văn Mãi, Chairman of the city People's Committee, said that the research work reflected the author’s devotion to the history and culture of the country in general and the south and HCM City in particular.

In addition, the studies would offer precious documents and references for planning the city's cultural and social development strategies and policies in the future, he added.

The Trần Ngọc Giàu Prize was established in 2002 to encourage and honour research on Vietnamese history and culture.

Giàu, born in 1911 in the Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Long An, was former secretary of the Việt Nam Communist Party in the south of Việt Nam and chairman of the South Việt Nam’s Resistance Committee.

He is the author of many scholarly and philosophical works about Việt Nam, especially about the south, as well as a teacher of many leading researchers and historians across the country. 

Bạc Liêu to host national contest for cải lương performers

More than 50 cải lương (reformed opera) performers across the country will compete in the 2023 National Talented Cải Lương Performers Contest in the Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta Province of Bạc Liêu during September 23-30.

The contest is organised by the Performing Arts Department in collaboration with the Việt Nam Theatre Artists Association, and the province’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The performers are coming from state-owned and private art troupes in HCM City, Hà Nội, and southern provinces, such as the Trần Hữu Trang Cải Lương Theatre and the Việt Nam Cải Lương Theatre.

Among them are winners at prestigious contests such as Meritorious Artist Lê Trung Thảo, and Nguyễn Văn Khởi, who won top prizes at national cải lương contests such as the national Trần Hữu Trang Talented Cải Lương Performers Contest, and the Chuông Vàng Vọng Cổ (Golden Bell) Contest, an annual cải lương singing competition held by HCM City Television.

Thảo, a performer and director of the Trần Hữu Trang Cải Lương Theatre, will play a leading role in the historical play Dấu Ấn Giao Thời (Transition Milestone) written by playwright Triệu Trung Kiên, portraying the life of King Lý Huệ Tông (1194 – 1226), the eighth king of the Lý Dynasty, who ruled the country from 1210 to 1224.

The artist has offered training for young talented artists such as Nhã Thi, Thy Nhung and Hoàng Oanh. He has also directed many plays such as Lụy Tình Vương Nữ (Devoted Love), and Hoa Đất (Flower of Land).

Meanwhile, Khởi will play Lê Hồng Phong in Câu Hò Đất Mẹ (Folk Song of Homeland), featuring the couple Lê Hồng Phong and Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, two famous revolutionaries in the anti-French war.

The 2023 National Talented Cải Lương Performers Contest will take place at Cao Văn Lầu Theatre in Bạc Liêu City. 

Exhibition showcases winners of the National Five-Year Sculpture Contest

More than five months since its inception, the National Five-Year Sculpture Competition has chosen 225 sculptures from 164 artists for exhibition.

The 16 best works were selected by the Organising Committee for awards, including three second prizes, three third prizes, and ten consolation prizes.

At the Awards Ceremony, the Organising Committee awarded three second prizes to the works Southern Love Song by artist Châu Trâm Anh, Nghênh Phong (Windward) by artist Nguyễn Trường Giang, and The sky is round and the earth is square by artist Lê Văn Khuy.

The three second-place works, made of three different materials — metal, white stone, and ceramic — represent the advancements and discoveries made in the realm of sculpture over the previous five years.

The work Southern Love Song by artist Châu Trâm Anh is based on the melodies of his homeland — Đờn ca tài tử, a genre of chamber music in the traditional music of southern Việt Nam. The sculpture displays the image of Southern men singing and women playing traditional instruments.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Artist Lương Xuân Đoàn, Chairman of the Việt Nam Fine Arts Association and Chairman of the Art Council of the contest, stated that contemporary sculpture in Việt Nam had moved away from large, obtrusive monuments that take up space to smaller, indoor and outdoor statues.

The need to live in harmony with nature, architecture, and the surrounding landscape formed this approach.

Đoàn explained why the first prize was not awarded in the competition, claiming that no piece could persuade the Council members.

"In the past five years, we have experienced a pandemic. Issues have arisen in the creative imaginations of artists, who are unable to feel at peace with the fragile fate of humanity. Therefore, the time to create a work is too short and urgent. We hope there will be more compelling designs in the near future," said Đoàn.

The exhibition reflects contemporary Vietnamese sculpture life openly and vividly. The artworks chosen for the exhibition allow visitors to witness a fresh side of Vietnamese sculpture with a variety of avant-garde characteristics, innovative ideas for shaping, and imaginative conceptions, as well as the potential talent of young artists.

The five-year National Sculpture Exhibition is held at the Hà Nội Museum, Phạm Hùng Street, Nam Từ Liêm District until 10 October. The exhibition is also displayed online at the website: http://ape.gov.vn. 

Rowers secure final berths at Asian Games

Vietnamese female rowers have advanced to two finals at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

Quartet Đinh Thị Hảo, Dư Thị Bông, Hà Thị Vui and Phạm Thị Huệ placed third in the qualification round of the women's four with a time of 6min 39.89sec.

China were on top with 6:33.40, followed by Japan on 6:38.05.

The finals will be held on September 24 at the Fuyang Water Sports Centre

Among Vietnamese rowers, Hảo and Huệ were in Việt Nam team which pocketed a silver in this category at the previous Games in Indonesia in 2018.

Earlier, duo Phạm Thị Thảo and Nguyễn Thị Giang secured their final berth in the women's double sculls.

They came second in the qualification in a time of 7:12.57, 3.28sec slower than the winner Iran. But it was enough for them to advance to the next round.

Thảo was one of four Vietnamese athletes who won a gold in the lightweight quadruple sculls in the 2018 Games.

However, she has no chance to defend the title as that category is not organised this year.

The finals will be held on September 24. 

Vietnamese U17 side eye AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals

Việt Nam are aiming to win a place at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals when they host the Group B matches of the second stage of qualifiers starting on September 20 in Hà Nội.

Việt Nam will play Bangladesh in the opening match at the Việt Nam Football Federation's Youth Football Centre.

They then face Australia on September 22 and the Philippines two days later.

Speaking at a press conference on September 19, Việt Nam coach Akira Ijiri said his players have prepared really well and hoped to advance to the final round.

"We are ready for the second qualifications," said Ijiri.

"To us, every rival is the same. We will play our best. Our senior team played in the 2023 World Cup, so we will play with 100 per cent of ability to maintain our reputation.

"After the World Cup, women's football receives much more attention from media and supporters which pushes for players to play harder."

The Japanese tactician said Việt Nam's target is to play in the finals and enter top eight so that players would have chance to compete with strong rivals to sharpen their skills and gain experience competitive football.

Coach Raeanne Dower of Australia was impressed with the hospitality of the hosts. She said Việt Nam, the Philippines and Australia had positive results at the World Cup which motivated young players to raise their dream of playing at the world-level tournaments.

Australia respected all teams and referees and set high goal in the second qualifier.

Because this a was young players' tournament so there was not many videos available to analyse teams. But it helped players be focused and show their ability.

Coach Sinisha Cohadzic of the Philippines revealed that he called best players and they had 20 days training for the tournament.

The coaching board told players the team's tactics and philosophy which are elements to help his team have food result.

Like Ijiri, Cohadzic also wanted his girls maintain Filipino pride as a 2023 World Cup participant at the Asian tournament.

Coah Mahbubur Rahman Litu of Bangladesh revealed that his team trained together for three months ahead of the competition. All three rivals were stronger than Bangladesh, he thought, but his players will make it a competitive event with highest score as possible.

His girls lacked international competition experience so this was a chance for them to learn and play. 

Runners to take part in UpRace's 'joyful road' to support charity activities

The highly impactful community running event UpRace will take place from October 6-29 with all proceeds used to support three organisations dedicated to causes in education, social development and the environment.

UpRace is an annual virtual run for the community initiated and technically sponsored by VNG, one of Việt Nam’s first unicorn start-ups specialising in digital content, online entertainment, social networking, and e-commerce, since 2018.

UpRace 2023 is expected to inspire hundreds of thousands of runners to take part in the event with a commitment of donating VNĐ1,000 to social organisations for each kilometre they run.

Themed The Joyful Road, this year's UpRace aims to inspire more participants to join this run-for-community journey, focusing more on experiences and emotions during running rather than the total distance.

Over five seasons, UpRace has attracted more than 350,000 participants, collectively running an impressive 16.5 million kilometres, providing support to seven distinct social organisations.

Dong Nai proposes HCM City metro links

Dong Nai Province Department of Transportation announced on September 19 that it had requested its consultants to study the development of metro lines connecting local urban areas and airports for the 2021-2030 With a Vision to 2050 Provincial Planning. 

The department earlier asked the provincial people’s committee to propose to the prime minister an extension of the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line in HCM City all the way to Dong Nai's Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Park in Bien Hoa City.

The line will run 18.30 km in Dong Nai Province.

Department officials said that if the metro line is extended to Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Park, it would mean that the line would connect to Bien Hoa city centre, helping improve the province's links with HCM City. The change also fits the province’s land development plan.

"From Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Park, we'll build another metro line linking to Long Thanh Airport," the department said. "This metro line will be connected to the Thu Thiem-Long Thanh Airport route, improving Dong Nai’s links to HCM City."

Another metro project linking Bien Hoa 1 Industrial Park and Bien Hoa Airport would also be studied for construction, the department added.

The two metro routes would connect urban areas in Nhon Trach, Long Thanh, Thong Nhat, and Trang Bom districts.

Hundreds of wild animal traps found in Son Tra

Around 700 wild animal traps were found on the Son Tra Peninsula in the central city of Danang in the first nine months of this year, according to the Danang Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The traps were detected during 84 patrols of the peninsula conducted by the local forest management force.  

During the January-September period, the forest rangers destroyed two illegal tents and rescued some wild animals, including those trapped.

Local authorities also detected forestry management violations and issued fines of VND35 million (USD1,458).

Service providers in Son Tra have been required to sign commitments on forest and wild animal protection.

Son Tra Peninsula is a popular tourist destination in Danang. It can receive up to 1,000 tourists a day. The locality has eight forest rangers who are responsible for managing 3,791 hectares of forest.

Google helps road safety charity iRAP advance SDGs in Vietnam

The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) is receiving a grant of US$2 million and additional support from Google’s philanthropic arm, Google.org, to enhance the safety of children’s journeys to school.

iRAP is one of 15 organizations selected to receive support through Google.org’s “AI for the Global Goals Impact Challenge.” This program allocates US$25 million for projects using artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

With the support of AI, satellite imagery, and Street-View images to detect road safety risks, iRAP will conduct a country-wide star rating assessment of road infrastructure around schools in Vietnam and support upgrades at the highest-risk schools. iRAP’s activities are carried out in collaboration with AIP Foundation, Anditi, and the University of Zagreb.

iRAP’s road safety star rating methodology, ranging from the least safe 1-star to the safest 5-star, provides a free, simple measure of the level of road safety for motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians.

Rob McInerney, CEO of iRAP, said, “By using AI to identify high-risk 1- and 2-star roads that children use on their journey to school, we can identify known hazards and mobilize evidence-based upgrades that will save children’s lives.”

McInerney emphasized that the AI-enabled Star Rating for Schools partnership with Google.org will support children’s mobility and contribute to at least eight of the UN Global Goals.

In particular, UN SDG target 3.6 aims to halve road deaths and injuries by 2030, and member states have agreed on voluntary targets to improve road infrastructure safety to meet the iRAP 3-star or better global standard.

Vietnam eye AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals

Vietnam are aiming to win a place at the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup Finals when they host the Group B matches of the second stage of qualifiers starting on September 20 in Hanoi.

The Japanese tactician said Vietnam's target is to play in the finals and enter top eight so that players would have chance to compete with strong rivals to sharpen their skills and gain experience competitive football.

Coach Raeanne Dower of Australia was impressed with the hospitality of the hosts. She said Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia had positive results at the World Cup which motivated young players to raise their dream of playing at the world-level tournaments.

Australia respected all teams and referees and set high goal in the second qualifier.

Because this a was young players' tournament so there was not many videos available to analyse teams. But it helped players be focused and show their ability.

Coach Sinisha Cohadzic of the Philippines revealed that he called best players and they had 20 days training for the tournament.

The coaching board told players the team's tactics and philosophy which are elements to help his team have food result.

Like Ijiri, Cohadzic also wanted his girls maintain Filipino pride as a 2023 World Cup participant at the Asian tournament.

Coah Mahbubur Rahman Litu of Bangladesh revealed that his team trained together for three months ahead of the competition. All three rivals were stronger than Bangladesh, he thought, but his players will make it a competitive event with highest score as possible.

His girls lacked international competition experience so this was a chance for them to learn and play.

Condolences sent to Vietnamese leaders over Hanoi tragic fire

Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Manet sent a letter of sympathy to his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh on September 20 over the significant human and property losses caused by a fire at a mini apartment building in Hanoi late September 12 night.

In the letter, PM Manet expressed his profound condolences to PM Chinh, the victims and their families. He also voiced his belief that under the leadership of the Vietnamese Government, the Vietnamese people will soon overcome these painful moments.

The same day, Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar also cabled a letter of condolences to Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son.

The tragic blaze, which occurred at 11:22 pm at the 10-storey building in an alley on Khuong Ha street, Thanh Xuan district, killing 56 people.

Vietnamese, Lao provinces foster ties in border management

A delegation of the Border Guard Command of Vietnam's Dien Bien province, led by its Commander Col. Phan Van Hoa and a delegation from the Security Department of Laos’s Phongsaly province led by its Director Maj. Gen Kham Chan Seng La Vong held the 11th annual talks on September 20.

Over the past time, the two sides' units have seriously abided by two legal documents on the border and border gates. They have been closely working together to adopt border management and protection measures, regularly shared information, especially issues related to ensuring political security and social safety and order.

They have actively urged residents in border areas to follow the decree and agreement on border management and land border gate regulations between Vietnam and Laos, as well as the laws of each country. They have also strengthened diplomatic relations, friendship exchanges and worked closely to ensure the safety of their missions.

In the near future, both sides agreed to continue with close coordination and full implementation of cooperation initiatives between the General Department of Security and the General Department of Police under the Lao Ministry of Public Security and the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence’s Border Guard High Command.

They will continue fostering social and cultural exchange activities at the grassroots level, and assist local authorities in setting up twinned relations between border communes and villages, thus deepening their special friendship, solidarity and comprehensive cooperation in all aspects.

Vietnamese, foreign peacekeepers show off emergency response skills

Military observers, engineers and medical workers of Vietnam and other countries demonstrated their performance of tasks for the United Nations peacekeeping mission, in Hanoi on September 20.

The activity was part of the Competency Evaluation Programme for Prospective United Nations Peacekeepers of the Experts' Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations (PKO-EWG) Cycle 4 within the framework of the ASEAN Defence Ministerial Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus).

 Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army Sen. Lieut. Gen Phung Si Tan (left) at the event. (Photo: VNA)
In the scenario-based training, they worked together in response to an urgent medical situation in which engineer officers were injured by explosive remnants from war.

Colonel Nguyen Nhu Canh, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations, said the training session aimed to raise the trainees’ awareness of the suitable response to the unexploded ordnance, as well as the partnership among military observers, engineers and military medical staff.

The event, drawing experts, trainees and observers from ADMM-Plus member countries, was the also last activity of PKO-EWG Cycle 4.

Sen. Lieut. Gen Phung Si Tan, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, said the success of the activity has contributed to affirming the role and responsibility of Vietnam and co-host Japan in actively contributing to improving the effectiveness of the ADMM member countries’ UN peacekeeping activities.

Vietnam’s biggest diplomatic, cultural event held in Hong Kong

The Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong and Macau held a banquet on September 19 to celebrate the 78th anniversary of Vietnam's National Day (September 2).

It was Vietnam's biggest ever political, diplomatic, cultural, tourism, culinary, and business networking event in Hong Kong, with about 600 guests.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Consul General in Hong Kong Pham Binh Dam described Hong Kong as one of the biggest foreign investors in Vietnam.

He said the Vietnamese Government and the Hong Kong administration have always offered all possible support to step up bilateral ties across trade, investment, finance, tourism and education.

Since Hong Kong loosened visa issuance for Vietnamese students three years ago, the number of Vietnamese students coming to Hong Kong has increased sharply to about 40 per year.

Dam wished that as a financial, trade and logistics hub of the region and the world, Hong Kong would continue upholding its role as a bridge between mainland China, Vietnam and ASEAN.

Secretary for Development of Hong Kong Bernadette Linn, for her part, described Vietnam as the seventh biggest trade partner of Hong Kong.

She hoped that Vietnam will tap its potential and reinforce stronger cooperation in such areas as services, finance, technological innovation and education.

Guests at the event were treated to music and dance performances, and traditional Vietnamese food as well.

On the occasion, a delegation of Vietnamese painters also attended an art exhibition, part of a series of cultural diplomacy activities held by the Vietnamese Consulate General in Hong Kong to spread Vietnamese fine arts to the world.

Binh Phuoc takes action to comply with EU's anti-deforestation regulations

The People’s Committee of the south-eastern province of Binh Phuoc, dubbed as Vietnam’s “capital” of cashew and rubber trees, has issued a document on the implementation of an action plan framework in response to the European Union Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR).

The regulation, approved by the European Commission (EC) on May 16, 2023, is the latest by the EU regarding green, sustainable development, specifically deforestation-free agricultural products.

It sets mandatory due diligence rules for all operators and traders who place, make available or export the following commodities from the EU market: palm oil, cattle, wood, coffee, cocoa, rubber and soy.

The rules also apply to a number of derived products such as chocolate, furniture, printed paper and selected palm oil based derivatives (used for example as components in personal care products).

They will be applicable to most companies from December 2024. Micro-enterprises and small-medium enterprises would have an additional six months to comply with the regulation's requirements.

Binh Phuoc’s key products like rubber, cashew nuts, coffee, pepper, durian, and wood and wood products are expected to be impacted by the requirements.

Under the document, the Chairperson of the provincial People’s Committee asked relevant agencies, localities, organisations and individuals to closely monitor risk-prone areas, and step up inspections over forest protection. 

The chairperson also suggested agencies and localities receive or build and recognize the national database on natural and man-made forests, which, he said, should be used as the basis to identify the areas at risk of deforestation at different levels, thus setting forth proper solutions in forest management.

The committee also emphasised traceability across supply chains, and livelihood support for farmers, especially ethnic minority groups and poor residents in the areas interspersed with or near forests, and remote areas to meet the EU requirements.

Vietnam, Hong Kong step up cultural, art training cooperation

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cultural and art training cooperation between Vietnam and Hong Kong (China) was signed on September 19 at the Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts (HKAPA) in the China’s special administrative region.

According to the MoU, in the coming time, the two sides will prioritise cooperation in training students, including enrolling Vietnamese students in education and training programmes of the HKAPA.

Besides, cultural and art training units of Vietnam and Hong Kong will bolster exchanges and research as well as cooperate in organising training activities in the performing art, music, dance, drama, theater and film production, among others.

Director of HKAPA Professor Gillian Choa assessed that the signing of the MoU is a significance as it’s the first MoU of the academy with the Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

She expressed her hope that the MoU will help the two sides enhance mutual understanding in the field of culture and increase the exchange of students and lecturers order to increase training quality of both sides.

For his part, Director of the Training Department under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Anh Tuan said that the HKAPA is one of prestigious training institutions in the world. In the coming time, the two sides will realise signed contents and strengthen professional exchanges to further cooperation.

The HKAPA is considered one of the leading art training schools in the world, ranking first in Asia and 10th globally. For many years, the academy has cooperated, enrolled and trained many Vietnamese talents. After a period of interruption, the academy is now restarting support and cooperation activities with a number of Vietnamese art units.

Hanoi moves to tap riverside agri-tourism potential

With its great potential for ecological agriculture and tourism, especially in riverbank areas, Hanoi has paid attention to developing riverside agri-tourism models.

In Vietnam's tourism development strategy, ecotourism associated with agriculture and rural areas is one of the five key products.

Visiting fruit and flower gardens, and agricultural farms, taking time to check in there, enjoying local specialties, and listening to historical stories at relic sites are activities visitors can experience at Hong Van commune, Thuong Tin district.

Hong Van commune's ornamental craft village tourist site is one of the two OCOP (One commune, One Product) products of Hanoi.

Located along the Hong (Red) River, in recent years, Hong Van commune has become an eco-tourism and agri-tourism attraction in the capital city.

According to Nguyen Hai Dang, Secretary of the Party Committee of Hong Van commune, the locality is now home to nearly 20 eco-tourism models that provide experience services associated with green tourism and agri-tourism. The commune welcomes 15,000-20,000 visitors per year, contributing to maintaining and creating stable employment for hundreds of local labourers with monthly per capita income ranging from 6-8 million VND (246-328 USD).

In Dan Phuong district, about 20km west of central Hanoi, many ecological farming models have been established along the riverbanks and are gradually becoming tourist attractions for Hanoi visitors.

Vice Chairman of the Dan Phuong district People’s Committee Nguyen Thach Hung said under the plan, traditional agriculture models associated with eco-tourism will continue to be developed in village clusters along the Red River and the Day River.

Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Nguyen Manh Quyen said the city will issue a plan for developing agricultural and rural tourism in combination with new-style rural building in the 2021-2025 period, and policies to attract businesses to invest in this field.

The municipal Department of Tourism is also developing a relevant draft plan, aiming to create favourable conditions to promote the development of agri-tourism, he added.

Number of int’l tourists to Vietnam bounces back

As the peak season of tourism is approaching, the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam has bounced back significantly, especially after the implementation of the country’s new visa policy which was introduced in August.

Under the amended Law on Exit and Entry of Vietnamese Citizens and the Law on Foreigners’ Entry into, Exit from, Transit through and Residence in Vietnam, the e-visa validity period is extended to 90 days from 30 days, and for multiple entries.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, since the beginning of this year, the sector has welcomed 8 million international arrivals, reaching the set target. The county expects to receive about 12 million foreign visitors this year.

Tour operator Vietravel revealed that in the first eight months of 2023, the company completed up to 80% of its plan on welcoming international tourists, including those from the EU and the Republic of Korea (RoK).

Hanoitourist Corporation said that it has received many orders from previous months for this year’s peak season. Tourists from Asian countries such as the RoK and Japan and the EU account for the majority. Besides, the Indian market has emerged significantly.

Meanwhile, Vietlux Travel announced that the number of international tourists coming to Vietnam by sea is expected to soar this year.

Vietnam has also experienced an upward trend in the number of visitors in Cambodia (338%), India (236%), Laos (117%), Thailand (108%), and Singapore (107%).

Several programmes have been carried out to welcome international arrivals and introduce new tourism products to attract new markets such as Islamic countries and meeting, incentive and conference (MICE) tourist market, among others.

Hanoi authorities have also announced several plans to organise numerous events to lure visitors in the coming time, such an autumn festival, a traditional costume festival, a Hanoi gift festival, and night tourism products.

Vietnam, Japan go together, head to future, reach out to world

The year 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam - Japan diplomatic relations (September 21, 1973 - September 21, 2023). During the past 50 years, the relations between the two countries have been strengthening and developing in fields.

They have become important partners of each other, sharing strategic interests.

The bilateral relationship framework has continually been heightened, from a "trusted, long-term stable partnership" (2002) to “Towards a strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia" (2006), then to a "strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia" (2009), and ultimately an "extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia" (2014). The two countries often exchange high-level delegations and convene meetings on the sidelines of international and regional conferences, thereby strengthening the trust between their leaders and setting the course for effective development across all sectors in the bilateral relations. 

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh's recent trip to Japan to attend the expanded summit of the Group of Seven (G7) and a working visit to he country from May 19- 21 set a new development milestone in the Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership. Japan's invitation for Vietnam to attend the expanded G7 Summit shows that Japan attaches great importance to cooperation with Vietnam.

According to Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio, Japan considers Vietnam an important and necessary partner in implementing the Japanese plan “Free and Open Indo-Pacific" (FOIP).

During that visit, PM Chinh had a meeting with his Japanese counterpart Kishida Fumio. The two sides agreed to further strengthen trust and promote bilateral relations and cooperation in economics, trade, investment, new-generation official development aid (ODA), high-quality infrastructure, green transition, and energy transition. They also agreed to strengthen coordination, share points of view, and cooperate on regional and international issues of common concern. The two sides have achieved practical results in the field of ODA cooperation and investment with the signing of three ODA cooperation documents worth 61 billion yen ( 411.38 million USD).

Meanwhile, the official visit to Vietnam by President of the House of Councillors of Japan Otsuji Hidehisa from September 4-7 has further promoted cooperation between the two countries’ legislative bodies in particular, and the friendship and extensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Japan in general.

In addition, the two countries are effectively maintaining dialogue mechanisms such as the Vietnam-Japan Cooperation Committee co-chaired by the two Foreign Ministers since 2007; the Vietnam-Japan Strategic Partnership Dialogue on Diplomacy, Security and Defence at Deputy Foreign Minister level since 2010; the Vietnam-Japan Defense Policy Dialogue at Deputy Minister level since November 2012; the Security Dialogue at Deputy Minister level since 2013; the Joint Committee on Trade, Energy and Industry since 2014; the Ministerial-level Agriculture Dialogue since 2014; and the Vietnam-Japan Maritime Policy Dialogue at ministerial level since December 2019.

The two sides also cooperate closely and effectively at international and regional forums, contributing to peace, stability, and development in  the Asia-Pacific.

In economic relations and trade, Japan is currently one of Vietnam's most important economic partners and the first G7 country to recognise Vietnam's market economy status.

Bilateral trade turnover has increased steadily over the years. Total two-way trade turnover reached 40 billion USD in 2020; 42.7 billion USD in 2021; and 47.6 billion USD in 2022. In the first eight months of 2023, the trade turnover neared 29.16 billion USD.

Japan is a large import market for vehicles and spare parts, machinery, equipment, tools and spare parts, wood and wood products, aquatic products, computers, electronics and components.

Japan exports to Vietnam machinery, spare parts, and equipment. The two countries have given each other the most-favoured-nation tariff since 1999.

Regarding investment, Japan is the third largest provider of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Vietnam after the Repubic of Korea and Singapore with 5,168 valid FDI projects with a total registered investment capital of more than 71.02 billion USD as of August 2023.

Meanwhile, Vietnam has 106 investment projects in Japan with a total registered investment capital of about 19.5 million USD.

Japan is also the largest ODA provider to Vietnam, accounting for about 30% of the total capital of foreign donors for Vietnam, with 29.3 billion USD, of which non-refundable aid is 1.8 billion USD.

The two countries have seen breakthroughs in agricultural cooperation, and climate change responses. Their cooperation in culture, education and training, health care, tourism, cooperation between localities, and labour also generates positive results.

About 1 million Japanese tourists visit Vietnam yearly. About 500,000 Vietnamese people are living, working, and studying in 47 prefectures and cities in Japan.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Pham Quang Hieu said that after five decades, the Vietnam-Japan relations are better than ever.

He said that leaders of the two countries have agreed to focus on implementing high-level agreements and cooperation areas.

Firstly, the two sides will continue to strengthen trusted political relations through promoting visits and contacts at all levels, especially high-level ones.

Secondly, the two countries will utilise the complementary strengths of the two economies, strengthen economic links, and keep Japan as Vietnam's leading partner in ODA, investment, and trade. Vietnam continues to call on Japan to provide new generation ODA to help develop strategic infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, digital transformation, climate change responses, and health care. Vietnam also calls on Japanese investors to Vietnam to support local enterprises in technology transfer and supply chains. And

Thirdly, the two countries committed to boosting cooperation in potential areas including digital transformation, digital economy, digital society, and green transition.

Vietnam attends 16th Ministerial Meeting of Global Governance Group

Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet attended the 16th Ministerial Meeting of the Global Governance Group (3G) held on the sidelines of the high-level week of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 20 (local time).

The meeting, chaired by the Singaporean Minister of Foreign Affairs, was attended by representatives of the Troika of the Group of Twenty (G20) (previous, current and incoming Presidencies), as represented by Indonesia, India, and Brazil, and 30 member states of the 3G.

Participants emphasised cooperation priorities in the coming time, including promoting the role of multilateralism and international solidarity in association with more equal and effective reform of global governance mechanisms, creating new driving forces to implement the sustainable development goals (SDG) on time, and enhancing strategic cooperation contents such as science, technology, digital transformation and green transformation.

Speaking at the event, Viet proposed four focuses for 3G and G20 cooperation in the coming time, including taking advantage of new growth drivers such as digital economy, green economy, circular economy and energy transition; paying attention to sustainable agricultural development to ensure global food security; continuing to ensure inclusiveness in multilateral processes, promoting the role of ASEAN and strengthening cohesion of the G20 agenda; and strengthening partnerships, especially in the fields of science, technology and innovation.

The meeting approved a press statement emphasising the group’s determination to enhance cooperation to address growth challenges, towards sustainable and inclusive development.

Hundreds of trees poisoned in Ninh Thuan forest

Authorities in the southern province of Ninh Thuan are investigating the potential poisoning of 200 trees found dying in a forest in Bac Ai District. 

Tents are set up at the forest in Bac Ai District to protect the trees.

According to the Ninh Thuan Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, over 200 trees with diameters of between 10-20 cm had shown signs of being poisoned with herbicides, including seven that were already dead. Herbicides were found inside holes drilled on the trees. Lots of herbicide bottles were found around the area.

"This is the first time such a case has occurred in this area," the department said. "The forest management board is trying to save the trees by pouring water into the hole to wash out the herbicides."

The Ninh Thuan Provincial People's Committee asked concerned departments to urgently investigate the case and strictly punish those involved on Wednesday.Pine forests in the central highlands province of Lam Dong have also been destroyed in similar ways by people who wanted to take the land for farming.

Dong Thap supplies sand for Can Tho-Ca Mau expressway project

Dong Thap Province has supplied 548,000 cubic meters of sand for the Can Tho-Ca Mau expressway project, thus ensuring that the construction of the expressway can be on schedule.

This decision has been made despite the province’s own sand needs for the ongoing Cao Lanh–An Huu expressway project.

The sand mine, situated along the Tien River, was officially handed over to the project’s construction contractor, Construction Corporation No. 1 JSC, on September 20.

The 110-kilometer Can Tho-Ca Mau expressway is a key component of the eastern North-South Expressway project. Its construction requires an estimated 18.46 million cubic meters of sand to build the roadbed.

However, the region has been grappling with a scarcity of sand and a shortage of viable alternatives.

Before this allocation, Dong Thap had already earmarked 371,000 cubic meters of sand from its existing mines to support the Can Tho–Ca Mau expressway project.

In a proactive endeavor to ensure a consistent supply of materials, Dong Thap is actively exploring new sand mines within its jurisdiction. This effort is aimed at securing 3.3 million cubic meters of sand in 2023, with a total target of seven million cubic meters for the entire expressway project.

Preparations are currently underway for the commencement of operations at four additional sand mines, boasting a combined capacity of around 2.8 million cubic meters, scheduled for October 2023.

These actions align with the directives of the Prime Minister, emphasizing Vietnam’s commitment to efficiently advance its infrastructure projects.

HCMC promoting comprehensive innovation in education

The Propaganda Department of the HCMC Party’s Committee yesterday held a conference about the implementation of Resolution 29-NQ/TW about comprehensive educational innovation to answer the demands of industrialization and modernization in HCMC.
 
The conference, named ‘Leadership Role of the Party’s Committees at Different Levels in Adopting Resolution 29-NQ/TW of the 11th Party Central Committee on November 4, 2013 about Comprehensive Innovation in Education to Meet the Requirements of Industrialization and Modernization in the Socialist-Oriented Market Economy and International Integration in HCMC’, attracted the participants of over 300 officials from the HCMC People’s Council, the Vietnam Fatherland Front – HCMC Committee, the Party’s Committees of Thu Duc City and 21 districts, representatives of universities and colleges in HCMC.

In his speech, Deputy Head of the Standing Committee of the Propaganda Department Le Hong Son shared that thanks to sensible management from the Party’s Committee and the State, there have been remarkable achievements in educational innovation, especially the autonomy mechanism in the three academic, financial, and human resources aspects.

President Nguyen Thanh Hiep of Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine shared experience and practical management measures for educational innovation, saying that it is necessary for the Party’s Committees at all levels to be the leader in carrying out Resolution 29. There must be frequent monitoring to timely support units in the organization to fulfill its action plan and assigned targets. Building capable teaching staff for innovation in education is also an essential task.

Stressing the necessity to create a strong, clear and moral Party’s Committee that has stable political ideology, Deputy Head of the Political and Ideological Division under the HCMC Department of Education and Training stated that this is a foundation for educational institutes to teach morality and a civilized lifestyle to all students. This can be done via school assembly sessions, extra-curriculum activities, field trips.

Deputy Head of the Phu Nhuan District Division of Education and Training Le Mong Diep voiced the need to take care of both the physical and ideological aspects for the teaching staff via suitable encouraging policies so that they can improve their performance, build their own political ambitions, and fight against care-free styles in education.

Finally, as to the model of ‘Advanced School for the Regional and Global Integration’ in HCMC, Principal of Le Quy Don High School in District 3 commented that such a new model needs the cooperative support from the Party’s Committee, the local authorities, educational managers, and the teaching staff as well.

President Hoang Cong Gia Khanh of the University of Economics and Law (Vietnam National University – HCM) said that after 10 years implementing Resolution 29, tertiary education in Vietnam has seen growths in various aspects. The teaching quality is developing day after day when applying the model of university management via a council. The cooperation among the Party’s Committees at all levels, state agencies and ministries, the local authorities, and educational managers and teaching staffs has left a positive impression on international organizations. However, there are still limits coming from the State’s regulations and policies.

President Mai Thanh Phong of HCMC University of Technology (Vietnam National University – HCM) commented that HCMC is one of the leading areas in the country regarding innovation in education to answer the society’s demands. The city’s achievements are the basis for even more innovations in the field as well as a driving force to make the city a more charming, civilized, modern, and loving one.

Head of the Propaganda Division of District 1 Nguyen Trung Chau Tuyen said that it is essential to develop members of the Party in the educational field, to teach political ideology in schools, and to increase the leading role of the Party’s Committee in schools. The management of the local authorities in learner-oriented innovation is also necessary.

Concluding the conference, Deputy Head Le Hong Son shared that the implementation of Resolution 98 in HCMC is a huge chance for the city to make good use of its own comprehensive strengths and strategic location in the process of innovating education under the guidance of Resolution 29.

Source: VNA/SGT/VNS/VOV/Dtinews/SGGP/VGP/Hanoitimes